Hiding Her Identity: The Wilford Wolf

The jarring sound of the alarm clock was abruptly silenced as it met with an unintended forceful blow. The remnants of the timepiece were scattered across my bedside cabinet and floor, a stark reminder of my latent strength. I sat up reluctantly, dismissing the covers off the bed. Monday mornings, truly a universal dislike, weren't they?

Trying to clear my foggy mind, I looked as lively as a zombie. I managed to drag myself out of bed, shower, blowdry my hair, and brush my teeth. I threw on my day's clothing—baggy jeans, an oversized top, a loose jumper, and trainers. My hair was twisted into a neat bun and minimal makeup applied. I gazed into the mirror at my reflection.

The sight was disheartening. An eighteenyearold girl, whose once sparkling eyes were now dull grey and lackluster. The baggy clothing concealed her fit and attractive figure. This was me—the girl lost within her own attire. This camouflage was my protection for the past four years, marking me distinct from the rest of the pack and subjecting me to ridicule. Underneath the light makeup, the remnants of a black eye from a locker slam incident were still barely visible.

Isn't my life a ball of joy?

Grabbing my prepacked school bag, I descended the stairs, dropping the bag near the front door. My breakfast awaited me on the kitchen table, a bowl of cereal paired with a cup of tea. As I began eating, my mum entered the kitchen, greeting me with a warm hug.

"Happy Birthday!" she beamed.

I had entirely forgotten. Today marked my eighteenth birthday—four years since my life took a turn for the worse as a Wilford Wolf. Without a mate, despite our strength, speed, and intellect, we are potential prey for rogue werewolves who bear an intense grudge against our kind. I say "we", even though I'm the only one. The only ones in the know are my parents and our pack's Alpha.

"Thanks, mum," I managed to mutter, my voice devoid of cheer.

"Darling, please try to lighten up. It's your birthday, and I can't bear seeing you unhappy," my mum implored.

"I'm sorry," I replied, "Where's dad?"

"He's meeting with the Alpha. They had some business to discuss," she answered.

She handed me a birthday card with £100 tucked inside. I thanked her, glancing at the time and realising I needed to leave. Raindrops were falling outside, so I slipped on my raincoat and shoes, slinging my bag over my shoulders. I stepped into the rain, pulled the hood over my head, and set off to school.

I was prepared for an onslaught of teasing today. As per common knowledge, I was yet to shift, two years overdue, and was treated poorly for this delay. As I was halfway to school, the rain intensified, creating puddles alongside the road. The rhythmic sound of the droplets hitting the pavement filled the air as I kept my head low to shield my face from the rain.

Just as things seemed to be routine, they worsened. A massive puddle lay beside the pavement as I heard a car accelerating from behind. The driver honked, causing me to turn just in time to see the car splashing into the puddle, drenching me in water. I recognised Griffin's car as he sped away. The Alpha's son, the main instigator, was the reason for my widespread ostracisation.

I sighed, shivering in the cold March weather of England. I continued to school, now even more of a spectacle. The entire school, exclusive to my pack, was well aware of my predicament. The laughter and sneakers filled the air as I hurried inside.

The familiar chorus of taunts, the stinging insults, the hateful comments echoed around me. The torment they inflicted was profound, yet I never allowed my emotions to surface. Despite the pain, my emotions remained locked away. I recalled a time when these hallways were friendly, when greetings were exchanged instead of harsh words, a time when popularity wasn't dictated by the Alpha and his followers. Those days were a distant memory.

Upon reaching my locker, I quickly unloaded the books I didn't need for my upcoming classes. With a sigh, I locked the locker and was about to pick up my bag from the ground when I felt a sudden, brutal force. A hand gripped my hair and my head was slammed against the locker, leaving a small dent and a spray of blood across the locker door. I crumpled to my knees, clutching my throbbing head. Griffin and Lewis' laughter echoed in the hallway as they left me alone.

"Just perfect," I muttered to myself.

Although my wound would heal in a few minutes, to maintain the facade of being an omega, it had to seem as though it would take at least a day to heal. I swiftly grabbed my bag and dashed into an oftenempty girls' bathroom. I secured the door behind me, tossed my bag onto a cabinet, and examined my reflection. There was a cut just above my left eyebrow.

Rummaging through my bag, I pulled out my makeup kit, which now doubled as a firstaid kit. I was no stranger to this routine. I meticulously cleaned the blood from my face and around the cut. I disinfected the area and could already see it starting to heal. Unfortunately, that meant skipping my firstperiod class to allow the healing process to complete before reapplying a false wound with makeup.

With a sigh, I reflected on my birthday morning already injured, and I doubted they even remembered my birthday. I slumped down next to a sink. Why was my life so complicated? Why had the Moon Goddess selected me for this unique path? Why was I different?

Hunched over my schoolwork, I found myself gnawing on my pen as I drafted a history essay about Nazi Germany.

"The Treaty of Versailles spurred the rise of the Nazi Party due to German resentment towards the democratic government..." I murmured, forming my conclusion.

History was a subject I enjoyed. Noticing it was five minutes before the end of the period, I hastily packed my things. The cut was fully healed, so I got to work creating a realisticlooking injury, concealing yesterday's bruise and adding a couple of butterfly stitches. Why was I allowing this? Why was I letting them treat me like this?

Seeing my eyes flare to a vibrant silver in the mirror, the hallmark of my anger, I took a deep breath and slowly returned them to their usual grey. Packing up my makeup kit into my bag, I unlocked the bathroom door and made my way to my History class. If I was the first to arrive, I could avoid Griffin.

Unfortunately, Griffin and his cronies were in the same class. By the time the bell rang, I was already at the classroom door, retreating to my usual spot in the back corner.

To my surprise, neither Griffin nor his gang showed up. Perhaps they were occupied with some pack business. Either way, their absence meant I was free from torment, at least for this period. Halfway through the class, while I was busily taking notes, a knock interrupted us. A year seven student handed a note to the teacher before promptly exiting. The teacher read the note.

"Gianna, you're needed in your art classroom immediately, regarding your coursework. Please leave your essay on the desk," the teacher instructed.

In a hurry, I gathered my belongings and exited the classroom, dropping my history essay on the desk as I left. I was puzzled, wondering why my art teacher would want to see me considering I consistently achieved top grades on all my pieces.

Making my way through the hallways, I arrived at the art classroom, knocked and entered. I placed my bag near the teacher's desk, but there was no sign of him. Why would he call me here and not show up? Then I heard itthe audible breathing of five individuals.

"Just look at you. Much improved," Griffin sniggered.

Seething with anger, I lowered my head, knowing my eyes were likely shifting color.

"How dare you? I despise you, Griffin. You'll rue this day, every bruise and cut you've inflicted. I promise you, your life will become unbearable. I LOATHE YOU. I despise all of you," I finished my tirade, calming myself.

I could feel my eyes reverting back to their normal shade. Suddenly, I was hurled against the wall behind me. I gasped as the wind was knocked out of me. Griffin was charging at me, his eyes pitch black. He seized me by the neck with both hands, lifting me off the ground. Pressed against the wall, his grip tightened, making me squeal.

Should I retaliate with my powers? Should I shove him away? No, he wouldn't kill me, I just needed to endure. As my airway constricted, I began to gasp for air, feebly attempting to loosen his grip. The burning sensation in my throat intensified, my gasps becoming more desperate. He looked furious as his grip tightened further. The agony and burning sensation escalated, my body instinctively fighting for survival. My vision started to blur, black spots appearing.

"Griffin. Release her. You don't want her blood on your hands. Your father would never forgive you, regardless of her disrespect," Lewis intervened calmly.

My vision worsened, black spots outnumbering the clear areas. I continued to gasp, each effort futile. As darkness encroached, I felt myself slide down the wall, collapsing onto the floor before blackness consumed me...

When I regained consciousness, I was still lying on the art room floor, surrounded by pools of paint that had dripped from me. No one had bothered to help me. I dragged myself into a sitting position, leaning against the wall. My throat was incredibly sore, and touching it caused intense pain. It had been two hours, and the pain hadn't subsidedthis was a serious injury.

I crawled to my bag, surprisingly free from paint, and hastily wiped the remaining wet paint from my hand. Retrieving my phone, I dialed Alpha Kendrick.

"Gia. Are you okay?" Kendrick's concerned voice came over the line.

"Alpha. Help me," I rasped.

"Hold on. I'm on my way," He responded, hanging up.

I crawled back to the wall, leaning against it. My voice was hoarse, and I could barely speak. Time crawled by until the door burst open. Kendrick assessed the situation, his eyes widening at the sight of me.

Kneeling in front of me, he lightly touched my neck, causing me to wince. His eyes filled with a range of emotions, shifting from care to a stormy black as his rage ignited.

"I'll make him pay. How could he do such a thing to a fellow pack member? I've taught him better. He almost took your life," Kendrick grumbled with seething anger.

As if I were weightless, Kendrick scooped me into his arms. He slung my bag over his shoulder, deftly navigating us out of the school unnoticed. He gently placed me in the backseat of his car and drove me home. Upon reaching my house, he lifted me once more, carrying me up to the front door. As the door swung open automatically, I saw my dad's worried gaze.

He carefully handed me over to my dad, giving my bag to my mum.

"She needs to clean off the paint and rest. Her neck and throat need to heal. I won't let him escape punishment. This is a step too far," Kendrick declared with a venomous tone.

My dad responded with a solemn nod, watching as Kendrick sprinted to his car and sped off. It seemed Griffin was in for some retribution. Giving me a tender kiss on the forehead, my dad carried me upstairs and gently set me down in the bathroom. I stood there, my feet wavering.

"I'm so sorry, darling. If I could, I'd make him pay for the torment he's put you through. I regret the necessity of protecting you from rogue attacks and I'm truly sorry this happened on your birthday," my dad whispered sorrowfully.

After sharing a comforting hug, my dad left me alone. I took a shower, watching the paint rinse off and swirl down the drain. Afterwards, I slipped into warm pyjamas and climbed into bed. School was out of the question for the rest of the week. As sleep overtook me, I reminded myself: I just had to endure for nine more months.

I stirred awake. It had been a week since Griffin's nearfatal assault on me, and I hadn't ventured outside my house since. The bruises on my neck had long faded, and a few days after the incident, my voice regained its usual strength.

My father had been livid. It took every ounce of effort from both my mum and me to prevent him from ripping Griffin to shreds. Frankly, I wouldn't have minded if he did. I utilized the time at home to catch up on assignments and review material for my upcoming exams. Although they were still a few months away, I seized every opportunity to prepare.

Today marked my return to school following the harrowing incident. I braced myself for the inevitable stares and whispers. My presence was bound to intensify the pack's animosity towards me. Word had it that Griffin faced a public admonishment from Kendrick in front of the entire pack.

For an Alpha, such a public disgrace was the utmost form of humiliation, often resulting in their wolves distancing themselves for a few months before fully cooperating again. Given the circumstances, Griffin was likely without his wolf's support, making his predicament even more precarious.

Serves the ignorant jerk rig—

Jazzlyn! No profanity. What have I told you about this?

Apologies, Gianna, but admit it. He is one, isn't he?

I laughed. I cherished my wolf, Jazzlyn, the rebellious spirit within me that I yearned to channel more frequently. She didn't take things to heart, a trait I wished I possessed.

No, Gianna. You don't need to be more like me. You are already like me. We are one, remember? You possess that feisty spirit, just waiting for the right moment to unleash it. Trust me.

I sighed. Perhaps she was right, but at the moment, I felt devoid of confidence. Where was this rebellious streak she spoke of? It was certainly not here. I rolled out of bed and trudged through my usual morning routine, managing, miraculously, to make myself somewhat presentable.

Donning skinny jeans, a tshirt, and a loose hoodie to conceal my figure, I barely looked presentable. A light application of makeup helped hide the dark circles under my eyes, a testament to my restless nights. I looked disheveled, a fact no one could dispute.

Dragging my feet down the stairs, I dropped my school bag near the front door. The scent of a bacon sandwich wafted from the kitchen, where my father was engrossed in the paper and my mother sat with a steaming cup of tea.

After I finished breakfast, I snatched my bag and bolted out of the door, hoping to avoid any further conversation with my parents. As I drew closer to school, my anxiety heightened, a gnawing fear consuming me. I dreaded the prospect of heightened hostility and judgment.

The sight of the school brought a wave of panic; my breath became shallow and rapid. I needed to calm down – a panic attack was the last thing I needed. A haze settled over my mind, but I forcefully pushed it away. I couldn't afford to succumb to fear, I had to face this headon. I refused to be intimidated.

Gradually, I regained some control over my emotions as I stepped onto the school grounds. It felt as though I had a beacon on my head, drawing attention to me. As soon as I set foot on school property, it was as if a spotlight was trained on me. The experience was as uncomfortable as I had feared – I might as well have grown three heads since my last school day.

My frustration grew at their curious glances and murmured judgments. Their probing stares felt like daggers, hatred and scorn palpable in their expressions. I was the girl who had caused their Alpha's public disgrace, a perfect target for their contempt.

Determined to ignore the harsh gazes, I kept my head down and navigated through the school grounds. Just as I was nearing the entrance, the distinctive click of heels alerted me to an approaching presence. The overpowering smell of cheap perfume confirmed my suspicionsRemi. Another name to add to the list of school tormentors.

"How dare you show your face here? Everyone hates you for what happened to Griffin. You absolute witch!" Remi's shrill voice echoed.

A crowd soon formed around Remi and me, eyes wide with expectant curiosity.

"I couldn't care less about your precious Griffin. He ceased being my Alpha long ago. And you, Remi, why don't you go and find some new boy to amuse yourself with? Your boyfriend alone seems insufficient to keep you entertained," I retorted.

"How dare you disrespect the Alpha? And who are you to speak to me like that, you pitiful omega?" Remi shrilled, approaching me with a repetitive clickclack of her heels.

She attempted to project an air of intimidation but failed miserably.

"As I mentioned earlier, which might have been too complex for your limited intellect, Griffin is irrelevant to me. I'll be long gone before he assumes the Alpha role. And please, drop the act, you're failing at appearing threatening," I countered.

Unexpectedly, she lunged at me, but I sidestepped her attack, shoving her back forcefully. She stumbled, landing on the ground with a harsh scrape to her knees and losing a heel in the process. The faint metallic scent of blood tainted the air. She gasped, turning to glare at me from her place on the ground.

"Here's a tip. Why don't you ask Griffin about the optimal way to strangle me? You might actually learn something useful," I mocked, then pushed my way through the stunned crowd.

Quickly making my way into the school, I hurried to my locker, swiftly exchanging books for my upcoming classes. Arriving early for class, I chose my usual spot at the back. Here, I was safe from the prying eyes of my peers, a small comfort that I was grateful for.

"Today, we will be having our monthly shapeshifting lesson. All students in years 11, 12, and 13, please make their way to the football field," the teacher announced.

A sigh escaped me. I despised days like these. We'd head outside, listen to the same monotonous lectures, followed by training exercises in both human and wolf forms. Of course, I was unable to participate. I would sit on the sidelines while my peers pointed and laughed, hurling cruel taunts my way. The training was led by Alpha Kendrick, his Beta, and my father.

The classroom quickly emptied, leaving behind a trail of buzzing excitement. This was a favorite day for most, considered the highlight of the month. For me, however, it signified nothing more than a day of humiliation, especially considering it was my first day back. Fantastic.

I stood up reluctantly, slinging my bag over my shoulder, and I was the last to leave the classroom. I shuffled down the corridors with my head bowed, my gaze fixed on the ground. When I made it outside, I headed to my usual spot under a massive tree on the school grounds, about 30 feet away from the football field. I pulled out an apple and a book, "Oblivion" by Anthony Horowitz, from my bag.

I bit into my apple, found my place in the book, and began to read. The shouts of Kendrick and my dad filled the air, instructing everyone on the optimal training techniques. As always, I wasn't participating. The common belief was that I couldn't "shift". If only they knew how incorrect that was.

The rhythmic patter of feet on the grass indicated the start of the laps. I was deeply engrossed in my book, the climax unfolding on the pages. However, a sudden burst of shouting jerked me back to reality. Looking up, I saw Griffin, his face contorted with hatred, glaring at me.

"Aren't you going to join? Oh wait, you can't shift. How could a pathetic creature like you bring me such humiliation? My wolf abandoned me for the past week. I can't shift. I can't fight. It's ALL YOUR FAULT!" Griffin howled.

In response, I rose and faced him, striving to maintain an unaffected exterior despite my inward trepidation. I possessed power that could easily bring him down, yet I had to restrain it. I had to appear defenseless, which made me feel vulnerable and exposed. It was a feeling I detested.

Anger flared within me, causing my eyes to shift to a bright, shining silver a blatant giveaway when I was incensed. The storm of emotions was visible in my gaze. My hands formed tight fists at my sides.

"Perhaps if you were half the man your father was, we wouldn't be having this conversation. So, I suggest you back off," I retorted, my arms folded defensively across my chest.

"How dare you?" Griffin snarled, taking a step closer.

"Griffin, if you don't step away from her this instant, I will postpone your ascension to Alpha for another year," Kendrick bellowed.

"What!? You mean I won't become Alpha even after I find my mate? You can't do that!" Griffin gasped in disbelief.

"I can, Griffin. Don't test me. You're dangerously close to forcing me to make that announcement," Kendrick warned sternly.

"Why do you defend her? She's just a useless omega. She can't even shift," Griffin snarled.

"And what about it? Does her inability to shift give you the right to mistreat her? Absolutely not. She is no less than any of us. You need to comprehend that fact or you'll never be worthy of the Alpha title," Kendrick fired back, his tolerance for his son's disrespectful behaviour wearing thin.

With that, Griffin stormed off. I shook my head, taking a moment to calm myself and let my eyes revert back to their normal color before settling back down on the grass. I reached for my book, ready to lose myself in its pages once more.

"You won't be attending school tomorrow. You'll be training with me instead. Be there at 10 o'clock sharp," Kendrick announced.

"Understood, Kendrick. See you tomorrow," I responded, managing a small smile.

"See you tomorrow, kiddo," Kendrick reciprocated, before returning to the ongoing training.

I could barely contain my excitement. It felt like an eternity since my last training session, which I absolutely cherished. It was the only time I could fully embrace my wolf self. Contented, I turned back to my book, immersing myself into its captivating world.

I awoke at around 7 o'clock, feeling groggy with an annoying kink in my neck. I must have slept in an awkward position. Pulling myself upright, I sat at the edge of my bed and stretched out my neck, rubbing it gently to ease the discomfort.

Eventually, I rose from the bed, clad in my slightly oversized onesie, and headed into the bathroom. After brushing my teeth and washing my face, I returned to my room to tackle my hair. I combed it meticulously and fashioned it into a sleek, neat bun. Satisfied, I moved to my closet next.

At the very back of my closet, I kept my training gear. I always kept a fully stocked selection as shifting inevitably resulted in torn clothes. I chose a pair of black threequarter leggings and white trainers, paired with a pink sports top that revealed my toned midriff. A baggy black hoodie, perfect for the journey to the training area, completed my ensemble.

I located my sports bag in a corner of the closet and packed an extra set of sportswear. Preparation is key, after all. Glancing at the clock, I noticed it was already 8 o'clock. I tossed my bag onto the bed and descended the stairs, managing to avoid my mother and her pack friends congregating in the living room.

Reaching the kitchen, I retrieved some milk from the fridge and poured it over a bowl of Special K cereal. As my cup of tea brewed, I grabbed an apple, then carefully balanced my breakfast items to transport them back to my room.

Once settled on the bed, I turned on my docking station, scrolling through my music library until I found the perfect track. The familiar lyrics of Imagine Dragons' "Demons" filled the room as I began eating.

I related to this song on a profound level, humming along while enjoying my meal. After I'd finished, I returned my dishes to the kitchen and retreated back to my room to tackle some homework. With an hour to spare, it seemed like the ideal time.

As I worked, another Imagine Dragons song played, "It's Time." I adored this song, too, but there was one line that resonated with me deeply. As it came around, I found myself singing along.

"So this is where you fell, and I am left to sell, the path to heaven runs through miles of clouded hell..."

"Right to the top, don't look back, turning the rags and giving the commodities a rain check..." I sighed contentedly, truly enamored with their music. Just as I was wrapping up my music homework, I glanced at the clock: 9:45. It was time to head out. Placing my work aside, I gathered my sports bag and zipped up my hoodie. On my way out, I remembered grabbing a couple of bottles of water.

My house was nestled right at the edge of the forest, a location that I loved. Venturing into the forest, I followed a familiar path. I'd tread this route so often that I could probably navigate it blindfolded. My scent of rose and vanilla was a familiar presence in the woods.

Immersed in the forest, I breathed in its earthy fragrance, feeling at peace. The connection I felt with nature was profound. I attributed this comfort to my silverhued wolf persona. The forest was an extension of my being, a place where I felt free and centered.

Eventually, I reached the expansive clearing where Kendrick was lounging on the grass. This large open space, concealed in the heart of the forest, provided privacy, something I was grateful for. If any pack member saw me in my wolf form, they'd likely faint or think they were hallucinating.

Stepping into the clearing, I caught Kendrick's attention. I stowed my bag by a nearby tree and greeted Kendrick, who rose to meet me. He was like an uncle to me I cherished the familial bond we shared. It was a pity his son didn't embody the same virtues.

"Hey Kendrick. Ready to get your ass kicked?" I teased.

"Feeling a bit confident, aren't we?" Kendrick playfully shot back, his arms folded across his chest.

Our laughter filled the clearing. "Anyway, let's get going," Kendrick suggested.

Shedding my hoodie and leaving it with my bag by the tree, I began stretching to prepare for our routine workout. Kendrick and I would always start by stretching, followed by thirty laps around the clearing. Despite our accelerated pace (and my superior speed), completing the thirty laps took a solid thirty minutes. Yes, the clearing was that immense.

Half an hour later, we had concluded our warmup. Neither of us were panting or drenched in sweat just yet. If anything, Kendrick seemed to have expended more energy than I did. I took a gulp of water, then tossed a bottle to Kendrick who gratefully took a swig.

"I'm thinking we should focus on human combat training," Kendrick began, his tone embodying that of a true mentor. "Your skill level in your wolf form is topnotch. I mean, you consistently beat me without a hint of hesitation. Therefore, mastering human combat seems to be the next logical step. Once we accomplish that, there won't be much more I can teach you, aside from the need for ongoing independent and joint training."

"Sounds like a solid plan. Let's do this," I responded, brimming with enthusiasm.

I nodded, signaling my understanding.

"The combat stance requires one foot to be placed ahead of the other for a balanced and centered stance. This helps reduce the chances of being knocked off balance. Keep your arms in front of you with clenched fists to protect your body and head from punches. Additionally, this position makes it easier to counterattack," Kendrick continued.

Demonstrating the stance, Kendrick moved with sharp, precise strikes. He expounded the benefits of the stance as he shifted around. I mirrored his moves, and Kendrick pointed out areas where I could improve. He had me practicing various strikes until I had mastered them, constantly pushing my boundaries.

"Never let your guard down. Keep your eyes on your opponent until they're incapacitated, either dead or too injured to continue the fight. Rogues and enemies won't show you any mercy," Kendrick cautioned, then asked, "Ready to give it a try against me?"

"Always keep an eye on your opponent, regardless of fatigue or injury. But considering this is your first go, it's quite promising. You managed to land some solid hits on me. I'm impressed," Kendrick complimented, pulling me up with him as he stood.

Breathing heavily, I rubbed my side where I had fallen awkwardly.

"I think I've got the hang of it," I replied, before jogging off to hydrate.

We continued our training for another hour. Each skirmish resulted in me being tossed to the ground and pinned, the wind knocked out of me every time. Kendrick was consistently leveraging his superior strength against me, my marginally inferior strength proving to be my Achilles' heel. I pushed myself off the ground, panting heavily. Sweat had started to dot my forehead, and my hair was slipping from its bun.

"Come on, Gia, you've got this," Kendrick encouraged. "You have more potential than me. You're not fully leveraging your skills. We won't stop until you manage to pin me."

"Alright," I replied, interspersing my words with labored breaths.

I rose to my feet, resuming my defensive stance. I needed a new strategy. Kendrick was more vulnerable when I was behind him; his extra weight was a potential weakness. I was faster and more flexible. I had to get behind him and pin him – that was my plan.

"Alright, Gia, you've got me this time," Kendrick conceded, gasping for air.

I released him and stood up, extending my hand to help him rise. He was now panting as well.

"Well done, Gia. I knew you could do it. However, as a consequence of taking down your Alpha, you now owe me another 30 laps as a cool down," Kendrick commanded.

"You can't be serious! We've been training for the past three hours. I'm exhausted," I protested.

"That's an order," Kendrick retorted.

Mumbling under my breath, I embarked on my laps, aggrieved by the sight of Kendrick lounging by a tree, sipping water, and relaxing simply because I'd bested him.

Eventually, I completed my laps and collapsed on the ground, draining the rest of my water. I splashed some on my face, seeking some relief from the heat.

"That was a productive training session. We'll conduct a few more focuses on handtohand combat, and then you just need to maintain your skill level," Kendrick outlined.

"Sounds good, but next time when I kick your butt, you're doing the laps instead of me," I complained.

"Sorry, but as the Alpha, my decisions are final," Kendrick stated with a smug grin.

"'As the Alpha, my decisions are final,'" I parroted in a mocking tone.

In response, Kendrick maneuvered me into a playful headlock and began ruffling my hair.

"Kendrick, not my hair. Please, stop," I pleaded, squirming in his grip.

"That's the penalty for cheekiness," Kendrick chuckled.

Finally, he released me, and I shot him a glowering look, to which he responded with a hearty laugh. I shook my head at him, and we eventually parted ways. I grabbed my bag and water bottle, pulling my hoodie back on.

"See you later, Kendrick," I called out as I ventured into the tree line.

"See you later, kiddo," Kendrick replied.

Then, I started my journey home, completely exhausted. Yet, I knew I was becoming a better fighter and growing stronger. I was now capable of defending myself, but until my secret was unveiled, I wouldn't be able to fully utilize these newfound skills.

Fast forward eight months later,

Ever since my first shift, I had trained with the Alpha. He nurtured my strength and helped me harness my wolf's abilities, knowing how exceptional I was. My inner power, speed, intelligence, and strength made me unbeatable. It would take a coordinated attack of at least ten wolves to bring me down. How they underestimated me. How they failed to see past their prejudices.

What a mess my life had turned into. I should have friends, be a prominent member of the pack. My parents held high ranks in the pack, which I was expected to inherit. Yet here I was, an outcast, with only a handful of people aware of my truth. My life would never be easy. I questioned the Moon Goddess. Why was this my fate? Destined to live in the shadows despite having a power comparable to the Royals.

All this was the consequence of one fateful day. The day that forever altered my life – my fourteenth birthday.

Flashback

I sprang out of bed with youthful energy. Today marked my fourteenth birthday, and I was brimming with excitement. Life was filled with camaraderie, with friends who always had my back. I eagerly anticipated an amazing day at school, followed by a party. You see, my closest friends were the Alpha's son, Griffin, and the Beta, Lewis, among others. I imagined it would always be this way.

Following my usual morning routine, I hopped into the shower, then slipped into some fashionable clothes. I chose a light pink flowy top, skinny jeans, and a pair of Converse. I curled my brown hair into loose waves that cascaded down my back and applied some light makeup. One of the perks of attending a werewolf school in England was the absence of a uniform.

Once ready, I picked up my school bag and flute, making my way downstairs. I casually dropped my bags near the front door and strolled into the kitchen. My dad sat at the table, engrossed in the newspaper while sipping his tea. Meanwhile, my mom busied herself on the stove, cooking bacon. I claimed a seat at the table.

"Hello, sweetie. Happy birthday!" My mom exclaimed, rushing over to envelop me in a hug.

"Mum... can't... breathe," I teased.

She drew back, rolling her eyes at me, "Drama queen," she retorted, playfully sauntering back to the stove.

"Yeah, I wonder who she gets it from," my dad chimed in, teasing my mom.

I laughed heartily at their banter, while my mom playfully scowled at my dad. "Happy birthday, darling," he said, his face lit up with a smile.

"Thanks, Dad," I replied.

Soon, my mom set a bacon sandwich before each of us, then joined us at the table with her bowl of cereal. I savored my breakfast, finishing it before I knew it. Rising, I started towards my school bags.

"Darling, we've got you a present," my dad announced.

As I turned around, he extended a small black box adorned with a pink bow. I approached and accepted the box, carefully undoing the ribbon. Inside lay a beautiful necklace, a rose quartz shaped into a heart, encrusted with sparkling silver diamonds and suspended from a golden chain. It was breathtaking. I put it on and rushed to my dad, enveloping him in a warm hug, then doing the same with my mom.

"Thank you so much," I squealed with delight.

"No problem, sweetheart. Now, enjoy your day at school," Dad encouraged.

The sound of a car horn signaled that my ride to school had arrived. Scooping up my bags, I stepped outside and clambered into the car, where Griffin, Lewis, and an older pack member awaited, the latter at the wheel.

"Happy Birthday," Griffin and Lewis chorused.

The day at school unfolded as usual. Surrounded by friends and wellwishers, I was inundated with cards, birthday wishes, and even a balloon from one generous soul. It was everything I had expected a day filled with friendship and celebration, all made possible by the high regard and respect people had for my highranking family within our pack. I relished these moments, never anticipating how drastically they would change. Back then, my life was simply about friends and fun. It was great.

Despite the typical monotony of lessons and the occasional sourtempered teacher, school life was bearable. However, the day took a turn for the worse during the third lesson.

I started feeling unusually hot and sweaty. Beads of perspiration trickled down my forehead, and my palms wouldn't stop sweating odd symptoms for a werewolf, especially given the mild British weather. Soon, a pounding headache set in, causing my vision to blur intermittently. Then, the worst symptom appeared: a stabbing pain coursing through my limbs like a torrent of daggers. Fear began to seep in.

Managing to get myself excused from the lesson, I hurriedly left the classroom amidst puzzled glances from my pack members. As the pain intensified, I staggered down the corridor, mindlinking someone to take my bags home later. I vaguely heard an affirmation, though I couldn't identify the respondent.

Barely managing to get to the school parking lot, I clumsily pulled out my phone and dialed my mom's number. The agony was escalating, and I was filled with terror. My mom's voice on the other end of the line was a welcome sound.

"Hello, sweetie," she greeted.

"Mum. Please, I need you to pick me up. Something's wrong... I'm in pain all over, and I don't know why. Please hurry, Mum, the pain is intensifying," I cried out in desperation.

"I'm on my way, darling," she assured me, hanging up immediately.

"Hang in there, sweetheart. Can you tell us where it hurts?" My dad inquired, a note of urgency in his voice.

"Everywhere. It feels like daggers are piercing me. My bones feel like they're about to snap. Ahh, it's unbearable!" I shrieked.

Gently, my dad scooped me up and secured me in the back of the car. Climbing into the front seats, my parents shared a worried glance.

"Do you know what's happening?" My mum queried, her voice shaking with concern.

"Yes, but it's too early. She still has two years left. Something's not right," Dad responded, his brow furrowed.

"Are you implying...? We need to inform the Alpha," Mum uttered, realization dawning on her face.

In my bewildered state, I could only muster small cries of pain, my teeth gritted against the torment.

"I've already alerted the Alpha. We're heading to the clearing now. We'll get her through this," Dad assured her.

Suddenly, the car came to a halt beside the forest. Once again, my dad cradled me in his arms and we embarked on a run through the verdant expanse. As the hues of green and brown blurred together, I was hit by another wave of debilitating pain. Arriving at a clearing, I saw Alpha Kendrick awaiting us, his expression grave as my screams escalated.

"Yes, she's indeed shifting prematurely. I've never witnessed it happen this early. We must do what we can to ease her through this," Alpha Kendrick stated, his voice filled with resolve.

Shifting? But that was a rite of passage reserved for the sixteenth birthday of every wolf. Why was my case different? Confusion mingled with agony as I writhed on the grassy floor, praying for an end to the torture. Yet, the pain persisted, intensifying when I thought it couldn't possibly get any worse.

"You've got this, Gianna," Alpha Kendrick encouraged.

"I can't... It's too much... Please, make it stop," I whimpered, my hands clutching at the grass, yanking it from the soil.

Suddenly, a bonejarring snap reverberated through me, eliciting a scream. Snap after snap echoed around me, the gruesome symphony of my bones breaking and reshaping was overbearing. It was a miracle I hadn't lost consciousness yet.

"Don't resist it, Gia," my dad coaxed gently.

As my clothes disintegrated, fur sprouted all over my body. The snapping of bones continued, signalling my transformation. I became a wolf, meeting my inner wolf today. My transformation completed, my hands and feet were replaced by paws.

Her words left me breathless. This revelation was far beyond anything I'd imagined. Although the pain had finally ceased, I was overwhelmed. Meeting my wolf at fourteen felt too soon, too sudden. I wasn't prepared for this.

I will prepare you. You have a strong support system, and though our journey will be arduous and long, we will conquer it.

Thank you, Jazzlyn.

A chorus of gasps echoed behind me. As I turned, my eyes met those of my mother, father, and the Alpha. Each face mirrored the same expression, an amalgamation of astonishment and awe.

"Alpha, is this what I believe it to be?" My dad asked, his voice echoing the uncertainty in the air.

The Alpha seemed to rouse himself from his stupor.

My parents looked on, their eyes shining with respect and admiration. I examined my wolf form, awed by its beauty. The silvery edges of my fur shimmered in the light, giving off a radiant glow. As I started to explore my new form, it was like discovering an extension of myself.

I nodded in comprehension, lowering my gaze. My life would take an unexpected turn after my sixteenth birthday. My friends would shun me, deeming me weak and unworthy. I felt an overwhelming urge to escape, to experience freedom in this new form.

Alpha, may I go for a run? I need to clear my head. It's been an eventful day, I mindlinked.

By all means, but your father and I will accompany you, came the reply. I expressed my consent with a nod.

As the Alpha and my father shifted into their wolf forms, they positioned themselves on either side of me. Together, we dashed into the forest, a cathartic run to ease my clouded mind.

End of Flashback

That fateful day had forever altered the course of my life. Now, four years later, I found myself grappling with the burdens that past had thrown upon me. I was hopeful, praying that upon finding my mate, my life would finally take a turn for the better. That sliver of hope was what I clung onto.

The insistent sound of knocking roused me from my slumber. I slowly opened my eyes, blinking away the lingering blur from my vision. As I surveyed my room, my gaze fell on my bedroom door, slightly ajar. My mum's head peeked around the door.

"Merry Christmas, sweetheart," she greeted, her voice bright and cheerful.

Grinning, I propped myself up in bed. "Merry Christmas, mum," I returned, my smile reflecting hers.

"See you downstairs in a bit," she said, casting one more smile my way before gently closing the door behind her.

Today marked the joy of Christmas, with the anticipation of the Mating Ball lurking just three days away. Rising f