The Alpha's Daughter Wants Revenge

Perched atop the pack house, I drank in the moon's luminescent splendor. It was full and compelling, as though it beckoned me. My gaze dropped on my wristwatch.

11:59 pm.

A single minute remained. What if it didn't happen? A pang of sorrow echoed through my heart at thought. For half a decade, I've spent every birthday in this same spot, under the moon's gaze, yearning for the shift that eluded me five years ago.

Today was a similar vigil, my fifteenth birthday. My one wish was to shift. Just once.

I knew the day would pass unnoticed by others. The surprise birthday parties of yesteryears were long forgotten. Things had changed. Everything had.

As the Alpha's daughter, I was considered a stain on the pack's honor, a sign of its weakness. No more, I thought.

I glanced at my watch once more. Ten seconds left. Closing my eyes, I braced myself, my pulse echoing my fear, nervousness, and anticipation. I counted the seconds, each one hanging in the air.

9..8..7..6..5..

My heartbeat quickened.

4..3..2...

My breath came in short, sharp gasps.

...1.

I waited for the excruciating pain of my bones rearranging themselves.

But nothing happened. No painful transformation, no shift. I was forced to confront a harsh reality I was indeed a disgrace to my pack, and their disdain wouldn't wane.

So, I resolved to put an end to it all. I flung my eyes open, narrowing them with newfound resolve. This was my liberation. No one would dictate my life, use me as a pawn in their game. I leapt from the roof, filled with determination. I dashed to the garage, hastily stuffed my clothes into a bag, and exited swiftly.

Then, I sprinted towards the woods.

It was an act that forever changed the trajectory of my life.

Aerowyn's POV

A sudden deluge of icecold water roused me from my slumber. Startled, I sprang to my feet, shivering uncontrollably. My mother loomed before me, an empty bucket in her hand. "Get ready and prepare breakfast for everyone," she commanded brusquely before storming out of my room.

I let out a resigned sigh.

This could hardly be called a room. It was the pack's old garage, converted into my makeshift living quarters. An antiquated bathroom occupied one corner, and the lack of wardrobe, cupboard, or closet was striking. My personal belongings were crammed into a single, wornout bag. A solitary chair rested beside a dilapidated table, haphazardly strewn on the ground.

I closed my eyes and inhaled deeply, then gathered my clothes and trudged to the bathroom. After a quick bath, I donned my grimy clothes: an old, faded lightblue tshirt, marred by holes along the sleeves, and a pair of wornout jeans.

I pulled my brown hair into a bun and stared at my reflection in the minuscule mirror adorning the wall.

My appearance bore no resemblance to my family members. My father sported black hair and dark blue eyes. In contrast, my mother, sister, and brothers all shared dirty blonde hair and skyblue eyes.

And then there was me—brown hair and matching brown eyes. I was the short one in a family of towering figures. My oncevibrant eyes had lost their shine. The smile that used to grace my face had vanished. The wit that used to define me had dissipated. My body had become markedly thinner, making me look almost lifeless.

I sighed again. Zoning out has become an unwelcome habit.

Shaking off my melancholy, I quickly slipped on my black hoodie over my tshirt and exited the garage, pulling the hood over my face. Although it didn't completely conceal me, it provided a small measure of comfort.

I made my way into the bustling pack house and dashed towards the kitchen. A few more individuals like me, all fellow Omegas, were already there.

As soon as Shena spotted me, she stormed over, her eyes blazing with indignation. Roughly grabbing my arm, she hissed, "How many times must I tell you to be punctual?!" Her loud outburst startled me, making me flinch.

"I... I'm sorry," I stuttered. Mimicking my stammering, she mocked, "I... I... I... I... I'm sorry," then she callously shoved me into the bustling kitchen, causing me to tumble to the ground.

"Such a disgrace to us," the other Omegas sneered, their laughter echoing as they departed the kitchen, leaving me alone to carry out their tasks along with mine. I wiped my tears, swallowed my hurt, and started working. The door swung open, but I didn't turn; I needed to concentrate on the task at hand.

Then, I felt a gentle touch on my hand. It was soft and immediately familiar. Turning, I enveloped the figure in a tight hug, and warm arms wrapped around me in response. This was the only person who genuinely cared for me, the only person who loved me unconditionally, the only person who truly understood my feelings.

"Grandma."

"My sweet girl," she responded, pulling away to plant a tender kiss on my forehead. Her affection elicited a genuine smile from me.

My grandma was a timeless beauty. Her skin was soft and supple, her light blonde hair, almost white, flowed around her shoulders, and she had my father's dark blue eyes. She was not only physically beautiful but possessed a heart of pure gold as well.

Whenever I felt hopeless, she bolstered my spirit and reinstated the hope that I had lost. She would always reassure me that there was a reason I was who I was, often reminding me, "The moon goddess never makes a mistake."

"Let me help you," she suggested, reaching for the knife in my hand. "No, Grandma," I protested, trying to retrieve the knife. I didn't want her to toil; she was the former Luna. She shouldn't have to work.

"Nauh. You're not taking this from me. Now stop arguing, and let's work. Together," she declared. I sighed and relented, knowing full well she would never back down.

Together, we prepared the meal and laid it out on the table. "Thanks, Grandma," I gratefully acknowledged her help once we had finished. "Anything for my sweet little girl," she replied, settling into a chair. "You know I'm not a little girl anymore," I chuckled. "But you'll always be my little girl," she said, grinning. I smiled at her in return. Oh, how I loved this woman.

"Come here, Aurélie," she beckoned, emphasizing my middle name. It was a name my grandmother chose for me, overriding my mother's intention to name me 'Linda,' which means 'pretty, beautiful.' But my grandmother insisted, and eventually, my parents agreed.

"Honey, Aurélie! You're zoning out again," my grandmother's gentle voice brought me back to reality. "I'm sorry. What were you saying, Grandma?" I asked, attempting to refocus my attention. "It's okay, darling. Come here," she waved me over.

I walked towards her, and she patted the chair beside her. I settled down, eager to hear what she had to say. "Do you remember what I told you that day when you asked me why I called you by your middle name? You were only four years old then," she inquired.

I remembered. It was a memory that had never left my mind. I had wanted to understand what she truly meant. Why was she bringing it up now? Could this be the day she had spoken of? Was she finally going to reveal the truth?

Flashback

I asked her why she called me by my middle name. She had replied, "Aurélie means 'Golden.' Your heart is golden, my dear. You are very special."

"I don't understand, Grandma," I confessed.

"You will. One day, you will. When that day comes, you will know. I hope you will remember what I said," she said, gently stroking my curly hair.

"Why did you choose 'Auwly' as my middle name?" I asked curiously.

"You will know why when the day arrives," she responded softly, her gaze fixated on the moon. "You will know soon."

End of Flashback

"Yes, yes, I remember," I replied, excitement bubbling within me. "You said Aurélie means 'Golden.' You said I am very special. You said I would understand one day. Is today the day? Are you finally going to tell me?"

"No, it's not the day yet," she answered, and I felt a tinge of disappointment.

"Oh," I replied, my excitement waning.

"Aurélie, my dear, I don't know if I will live to see that day. But always remember one thing. Follow your heart. Follow the voice deep inside you," she looked at me with an inscrutable expression.

"Grandma, I don't understand. Why do you always say things with such profound meaning, as if there's another secret beneath it all?" I asked, my confusion evident.

"You are very observant," she smiled warmly.

"What do you mean?" I inquired, curiosity piqued.

"I mean you're right. There is another secret meaning," she replied. "Aurélie, listen closely. You have a long journey ahead of you. There will be highs and lows, moments of triumph and moments of defeat. When you soar too high, there will come a time when you fall. But never give up. If you stumble and fall, gather yourself and rise again. Remember, there will always be a reason why you feel. Explore those laws, discover the lessons they hold, and find your way back up."

She reached into her jeans pocket and retrieved a wooden box. "Here, this is for you," she said, placing it in my hands. "What is it?" I asked, gingerly examining the box. It bore inscriptions that resembled ancient writing.

"Open it," she urged, a gentle smile playing on her lips. I slowly lifted the lid, revealing its contents. "Grandma," I gasped in awe.

Inside the box rested a pendant necklace adorned with a mesmerizing onyx stone. I carefully lifted it out. "It's beautiful," I exclaimed, entranced by its allure.

"It's yours," Grandma confirmed, her voice filled with sincerity.

"What?" I stammered, finding it hard to believe.

Without uttering a word, she unclasped the moonstone necklace from around her neck and placed it in the box. She then took the onyx pendant necklace and nestled it alongside the moonstone, before gently closing the lid. She met my gaze and returned the box to my hands.

"I may not be there on that day, but these will be," she said, her voice tinged with bittersweetness. "The onyx pendant necklace is a family heirloom, passed down in 1600. I have only worn it twice in my life. I want you to wear it now," she smiled.

"And the moonstone necklace was given to me by your grandpa. It was a gift he bestowed upon me, with the promise that I would pass it on to you on the day before your 15th birthday," she continued. It struck me then that tomorrow was indeed my 15th birthday, but the significance seemed overshadowed by my inner struggles.

"Why?" I couldn't help but ask. "Why me? Why not Valerie?"

"I've told you, my dear. You are special," she replied gently, her eyes filled with affection.

I looked at her and then at the box in my hands. "Okay, I will wear them," I said, a resolute determination settling within me. She smiled and embraced me warmly. "I will see you later then. Remember, you have school today," she said before departing.

I made my way back to the garage, packed my worn bag, and returned to the pack house. Voices emanated from the kitchen, indicating that everyone was enjoying their dinner. Silently, I positioned myself just outside the door, waiting patiently.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and my twin brother, Ervin, emerged. His once bright skyblue eyes turned frigid upon seeing me. An anxious gulp escaped my throat.

"Well, hello there, sister. Oh, wait, I forgot. You're not my sister. You're the disgrace queen," he taunted, his chuckles resonating through the air. He bent down to my level, locking his gaze with mine.

"I'm sorry I have to do this," he whispered, his cold eyes softening. His smirk transformed into a sorrowful smile. I stared at him in disbelief. Did he genuinely care about me? Was his animosity all an act? Had it all been a charade?

"EErvin?" I managed to utter, my voice trembling.

Before I could process what was happening, a punch landed on my jaw, sending a metallic taste of blood into my mouth. I looked up, bewildered, only to find Ervin grinning with an air of triumph. What had just transpired?

"Pathetic. Do you honestly think I, Ervin Barrett Beau, care about you? You're a sorry excuse for an Omega! You don't even possess a wolf!" he spat venomously.

A wave of sadness washed over me, causing tears to well up in my eyes. However, I refused to let them cascade down my cheeks.

"Such a disgrace. Pathetic. Ugly. Stupid. Dumb. Nerd," he continued his tirade. The hurt sliced through my heart, yet I remained silent. Nerd? I wasn't a nerd. I yearned to study diligently, but the burdens of the pack house left me with scarce time for education. How could I possibly focus on my studies?

"And your mate? He won't even give you a second glance. I'm 100% certain he'll reject you without hesitation," he laughed, attracting a growing crowd around us.

Amongst the onlookers, I spotted my sister, Valerie, and my older brother, Wilson, standing idly, their expressions hinting at amusement. Mother and Father were present too, their faces mirroring amusement as they observed the spectacle. I bled from my injuries, yet they celebrated Ervin's cruel display. How delightful.

As I rose to leave, my path was obstructed by my sister, who shoved me forcefully back to the ground. Laughter echoed in the surroundings.

A series of kicks landed on my stomach, followed by relentless strikes targeting various parts of my body. Head, legs, arms, back, breasts, face, nose—the blows rained down upon me mercilessly. Dark colors began to dance within my vision.

The last sensation I felt was a kick to my neck.

The last words I heard were, "Why don't you do everyone a favor and just leave? Or better yet, die?" spoken by Wilson.

I slowly opened my eyes, each movement causing pain to course through my body. I realized I was lying on the cold floor of the pack house. Determined, I forced myself to stand, disregarding the aching. I made my way to the kitchen, grabbing a sandwich before limping towards school on one foot.

Leaving my biology class, I felt utterly drained. Lunchtime had arrived, so I headed to the playground, my chosen spot for meals. Settling on a bench, I closed my eyes, seeking a momentary respite from the harsh realities that surrounded me.

At the tender age of 5, I dashed out of the pack house, laughing with sheer delight. My 12yearold brother, Wilson, and 9yearold sister, Valerie, chased after me.

"I'm going to catch you, Ari!" Wilson exclaimed, his laughter echoing through the air.

"No, you won't! I'm faster than you!" I shouted back, my giggles filling the atmosphere. Catching sight of my twin brother, Ervin, perched on a tree, I called out to him.

"Ervi! Ervi!" I yelled, urging him to join us. He glanced in my direction and climbed down a few branches. Extending his hand, he offered assistance, which I gladly accepted, using it to climb the tree.

However, in a sudden turn of events, I lost my balance and tumbled to the ground, landing on my rear. Stunned, I sat there momentarily, grappling with the shock.

Valerie, Wilson, and Ervin rushed to my side, their faces etched with concern. As they knelt beside me, I burst into laughter, unable to contain my mirth. Standing up, I swiftly evaded their grasp and darted away.

"You're crazy," Wilson exclaimed, his laughter accompanying my escape. Soon after, my mischievous siblings pinned me to the ground, their nimble fingers relentlessly tickling my sides as I erupted in fits of uncontrollable laughter. Tears welled up in my eyes from the sheer joy of the moment.

"Kids, it's lunchtime!" Mother's voice rang out, catching our attention. As my siblings glanced up, I used the opportunity to wriggle free from their hold and hurried to Mother. "Mommy!" I exclaimed, throwing my arms around her legs.

"Hello there, my little princess!" she greeted, sweeping me into her warm embrace. I planted kisses on her cheeks. "I love you, Mommy," I proclaimed, my adoration evident in my voice.

"Awwn, I love you too, baby," she replied, returning my affection. Wilson chimed in, "No kiss for me?" I glanced mischievously at him and grinned.

"Nah, I don't kiss dumbwos!" I flicked my short curly hair with sass, causing laughter to erupt from everyone present. Just then, Father's voice rang out.

"Aerowyn!" he called, drawing my attention. "Daddy!" I exclaimed with unbridled joy.

My reverie was shattered by the sound of approaching footsteps. I glanced to the side, spotting them—the individuals who despised me as though I were a rogue, the ones who treated me as though I were dirt beneath their shoes. Valerie, Wilson, Ervin, and the other bullies.

"Look who's here," Wilson chuckled, relishing their arrival. "You made it, huh?" Ervin smirked, his pride evident in his demeanor.

"Oh, my baby sister," Valerie hurried to my side, her expression falsely filled with sorrow. "Are you okay? Does it hurt?" she feigned concern, her hand gently caressing my face. Gritting my teeth, I refrained from uttering something I would undoubtedly regret later.

"Oh, my god! I'm so, so sorry!" she frowned, pretending remorse. "Everything will be okay," she continued, her frown transforming into a sinister smile, "if you leave the pack. Become a rogue and never come back."

I knew it! All along, I had sensed that this was yet another one of their games!

Suddenly, the most alluring scent I had ever encountered wafted into my nostrils. Unable to resist, I inhaled deeply, feeling something within my soul snap into place. What was happening? I followed the intoxicating aroma, my gaze landing on him—the source of the scent. The realization struck me in an instant.

Mate.

But how? I wasn't 16 yet. Tomorrow, I will only turn 15. How could this be?

He drew closer, stopping alongside my siblings. He looked up at me, his deep, dark gray eyes widening in astonishment.

"Mate."

Aerowny's POV

Gasps filled the air as those two words slipped past Luciano Wyatt Robinson's plump, red lips. Mate. It's hard to wrap my mind around it. Luciano, the notorious playboy, is my mate? My brother's best friend? The Alpha of the neighboring pack?

Oh, dear Lord. I'll only be fifteen tomorrow, and look at him! Luciano, or Luke, as he's known, is twenty years old. There's a fiveyear age difference between us.

His scrutinizing gaze travels from the top of my head down to my toes. Others around us wait, curious to see how this will unfold. Wilson, Valerie, and Ervin wear confused expressions. They know my age.

"My mate is a kid?!" He exclaims, disbelief coloring his voice. "And she can't even shift."

Embarrassment washes over me, causing my head to lower.

"She's a disgrace," I hear his Beta, Iris, sneer. "I can't have a mate like you. I deserve someone better. It seems the Moon Goddess truly hates me, pairing me with this pathetic excuse for a human." His nose scrunches up as he emphasizes the word 'human.'

"Heck, I don't even want a mate. Why now?" Luciano locks eyes with me.

The crowd around us has grown, eagerly hollering, clapping, and whistling. They seem to revel in this spectacle.

But it's not their reaction that wounds me the most. Each word Luciano utters feels like silvertipped arrows piercing my chest. The pain is agonizing. "Even if it weren't me, whoever he is, he wouldn't accept you. Who would want a pathetic, weak human as a mate?"

"I might be your mate, but soon, I'll be your 'ex' mate, darling," he adds, a smugness lacing his words. "So say goodbye to the word 'mate.'"

"I, Luciano Wyatt Robinson, Alpha of the Red Wood Pack, hereby reject you, Aerowyn Aurélie Beau, as my mate and my Luna," he declared, a smirk adorning his face.

As his words hung in the air, a searing fire seemed to engulf my entire being. The pain intensified, and I couldn't bear it any longer. Collapsing to the ground, I clutched my chest, a strangled scream escaping my lips.

"That's a good one, bro," Wilson's voice reached my ears. "Yeah, Luke," Valerie chimed in. "You did better than I did this morning," added Ervin.

Battling against the heaviness that weighed down my eyelids, I finally managed to open them. However, I felt nothing. Emptiness consumed me, leaving me numb. Mustering what little strength I had left, I rose from the ground and made my way into the school hall.

All eyes were on me, accompanied by smug smiles, teasing smirks, and amused grins. From time to time, I caught snippets of hurtful comments.

"Hey, how does it feel to be rejected?"

"No one loves you. Everyone hates you."

"Your parents, siblings, and even your mate."

"Maybe her wolf feels the same way."

"It's embarrassed by her, disgusted even."

"That's probably why her wolf refuses to show itself."

"Poor wolf, it doesn't deserve this pathetic mutt."

Feeling utterly humiliated, I kept my head down and made my way to my locker. Retrieving my bag, I started walking with my gaze fixed on the ground, my mind elsewhere. Lost in my thoughts, I failed to notice the figure standing in front of me, and we collided.

However, I managed to regain my balance just in time, taking a couple of steps back. As I looked up, the scent of wood, cinnamon, and a hint of spice filled my nostrils.

There he stood. "Now you're going to bump into me?" he sneered.

Ignoring his comment, I tried to sidestep and continue on my way. However, he swiftly grabbed my wrist, pulling me back to where I had been just seconds ago. A tingling sensation coursed through my wrist, and I quickly pulled my hand away, taken aback by the sudden shock.

"You bumped into me. Now kneel before me and beg for my forgiveness," he demanded, a smug expression etched across his face.

Refusing to comply, I stood my ground, my face devoid of emotion. "What are you waiting for?" he snapped.

"Bitch, kneel before me!" he growled.

I spoke softly, my voice devoid of any submission. "No."

His tone turned dangerously low. "What did you say?"

"I said no," I repeated, my defiance evident.

"Kneel. Down. Now!" he growled, his patience wearing thin.

"No. I won't," I declared firmly.

"Valerie! Wilson! Ervin!" he snarled, calling out to my siblings. Confusion washed over me. What was happening?

To my surprise, my siblings emerged from the crowd, accompanied by my exbest friend, Heather. Valerie and Heather approached me, gripping my shoulders.

"WWhat are yyou doing?" I stammered, fear creeping into my voice.

"We're making you kneel," Heather nonchalantly shrugged, her demeanor disturbingly indifferent. "No, yyou won't," I protested.

"But we will, baby sister," Valerie chimed in, her voice dripping sickly sweet.

They began to push me forcefully, but I fought to maintain my stance. Despite my efforts, they soon overwhelmed me, launching a barrage of blows. Exhausted, I collapsed onto the ground. Heather pressed my head down, forcing me to kneel as warm tears streamed down my face.

The surrounding crowd erupted in hollers and cheers.

"Good doggie," Luciano taunted, his grin widening. Summoning my strength, I pushed my sister and Heather away before fleeing the hall, tears streaming down my face. Their laughter echoed in my ears.

"Coward!" they taunted.

"Go rogue, bitch!" Heather's voice rang out.

"Do us all a favor and die!" my supposed mate yelled.

I ran as fast as my legs could carry me, all the way to the safety of the garage.

Later that day, I found myself tasked with cleaning the guest rooms. As I went about my duties, finishing one room and moving on to the next, I had no idea of the shocking sight that awaited me.

Upon opening the door, my eyes widened in disbelief, and a sharp pain pierced through my chest. I gasped, my breath catching in my throat. Their gaze landed on me, and while he appeared startled, she wore a smug expression.

Overwhelmed by the sight before me, I quickly shut the door, unable to find the right words to express my emotions. Pain coursed through my entire being, and I clutched my chest with one hand while hugging the broom close to me with the other.

Seeking solace, I rushed to another guest room, finding refuge within its confines as tears streamed down my face. The weight of the moment made it difficult to breathe; my lungs burned, and my body ached. The scene played over and over in my mind, tormenting me with each repetition.

My mate. And my...exbest friend.

Luciano and Heather.

They were...engaged in actions I couldn't bear to comprehend.

But despite the overwhelming pain, I fought against it. Rising to my feet, I mustered the strength to continue cleaning, moving from one room to another in a robotic fashion.

As I entered the final room, occupied with tidying the cupboards, I heard the door open and close. Startled, I turned around, only to come face to face with him. Images of the previous encounter flooded my mind, but I forced them away, trying to remain composed.

"Aerowyn," I heard him say, his voice caressing my name. It sounded almost pleasant, coming from his mouth. "Aerowyn," he repeated. I turned to face him, my confusion evident. "Yes, Alpha Robinson?" I inquired, my voice tinged with uncertainty. "Can I help you?" I added, unsure of his intentions.

"Yes, you can," he responded, his words carrying a different tone. I was taken aback. Didn't he despise me?

It was in that moment that I caught a glimpse of the expression on his face—lust.

I gasped, instinctively taking a step back, fear coursing through my veins. He growled softly, his predatory aura intensifying. Desperate to escape, I turned to run, but he was in front of me in an instant, his werewolf speed unparalleled.

Before I could fully comprehend what was happening, I found myself forcefully pressed against the wall, his strong presence pinning me in place. His gaze burned with desire as he looked at me.

"Luciano, stop," I pleaded weakly, my voice barely audible. He growled in response. "You don't want this. You're not in the right state of mind," I struggled to reason with him. "You don't know what I want," he growled back, dismissive of my concerns.

"Please, stop," I cried out, my voice filled with desperation. "Don't tell me what to do!" He snarled, tightening his grip on my wrists, causing me pain. "Please, sto" I was abruptly cut off as he crushed his lips against mine.

At first, shock consumed me, rendering me motionless. But as he pressed his lips more firmly against mine, I found myself responding, my eyes closing as I moved my lips in sync with him.

Fireworks exploded within me as he gently bit my lower lip, his tongue slipping into my mouth. Our tongues danced together, our lips moving in perfect harmony. A low moan escaped me, prompting his approving growl.

His hands roamed over my body, and then, with a suddenness that left me breathless, his hands slipped beneath my tshirt, igniting a kaleidoscope of sensations.

In that moment, everything faded away, and I was lost in a blissful haze of passion.

Until...

Until I heard it, a sound that shattered the hazy fog surrounding me like a thunderstorm. The distinct sound of his zipper being undone. In that instant, reality crashed back upon me, and I refused to let this nightmare become my reality.

With a surge of strength, I pushed him away, gasping in disbelief. "Luciano," I uttered, my voice filled with both shock and determination. No, this couldn't happen. I wouldn't allow it.

But Luciano, fueled by his desires, gripped my waist and forcefully threw me onto the bed. Fear coursed through me, and tears streamed down my cheeks like an unending waterfall. I fought to rise, but he swiftly moved, pinning me down with one hand while I struggled beneath his grip. I cried out, pleading for him to stop.

Ignoring my pleas, he forced his lips upon mine once more. This time, it was anything but soft or gentle. It was rough, painful, and filled with a cruel intensity. He bit my lower lip harshly, causing me to hiss in pain as the metallic taste of blood filled my mouth. It was my own blood, a bitter reminder of the violation I was enduring.

Meanwhile, his other hand moved to my jeans, unzipping them as I thrashed beneath him. I screamed for help, a desperate plea that I knew would go unanswered. I was trapped, my voice unheard, my suffering invisible.

In that moment, instinct took over, and I resorted to the only option that seemed viable. I mustered all my strength and delivered a swift kick to a vulnerable area. As he rolled off me, clutching his injured groin, I seized the opportunity to escape. With trembling legs, I stood up and ran toward the door.

Opening it in a frenzied panic, I sprinted out of the pack house, my heart pounding in my chest. Seeking refuge, I locked myself inside the safety of my garage, collapsing to the ground as tears continued to flow uncontrollably.

Why? Why was my life plagued by such torment? What had I done to deserve this? Why did the moon seem to punish me at every turn?

Hours passed, and I found myself perched upon the roof of the pack house, where I had sought solace since 10:45 pm. Gazing up at the full moon, its radiant glow enveloping the night sky, I couldn't help but feel a peculiar connection. It seemed to beckon me, calling out to a part of me that yearned for understanding and solace in this chaotic world.

I glanced at my wristwatch. It read 11:59 pm. Just one more minute remained.

What if it didn't happen? The mere thought tugged at my heart, causing it to ache. It had been five years since that fateful day, the day I sat here, watching the moon on every birthday, waiting for the shift that never came. Today was no exception, my fifteenth birthday, and my only wish was to experience the transformation.

But deep down, I knew no one would celebrate this day with me. There would be no more surprise parties like the ones from five years ago. Everything had changed. Everything.

As the Alpha's daughter, I was considered a disgrace to the pack, a constant reminder of their perceived weakness. However, I refused to let that define me any longer. Not anymore. At least, I hoped.

Glancing at the time again, I saw there were only ten seconds left. Anxiety swelled within me, and I closed my eyes, nerves tingling throughout my body. Fear and anticipation intermingled, intertwining my emotions.

Slowly, I counted the seconds.

Nine...eight...seven...six...five...

My heart quickened its pace.

Four...three...two...

My breath grew shallow.

...one.

I waited, expecting my bones to break, my body to undergo the transformation I had longed for. But...nothing happened. No bonebreaking agony, no transformation. It was then, in that moment, that I realized there was no hope. I truly was a disgrace. The pack would never stop hating me.

Fueled by a newfound determination, I opened my eyes, narrowing them with resolve. This was for me and me alone. I would liberate myself. No one would have control over me. I refused to be a pawn in anyone's game.

With unwavering determination, I leaped off the roof, landing firmly on the ground. Making my way to the garage, I packed my clothes, took the box my grandmother had given me and put on both necklaces. The onyx one was shorter than the moonstone pendant.

Tearing a page from my notebook, I grabbed a pen and wrote just one word on the paper: 'goodbye.' There was nothing more to say, no words that could capture the weight of my decision. I doubted the pack would mourn my departure.

My parents and siblings would likely throw a celebration, marking today as their "Independence Day: the Disgrace has finally left."

With the duffle bag slung over my shoulder, I stood tall, ready to embark on this new chapter of my life. I exited the garage and ran towards the woods, propelled by fierce determination.

I sprinted until I reached the pack border, where warriors and guards dutifully stood watch. Without hesitation, I dashed towards the other side, where there were no sentinels or protectors. How did I know? I have known each other since I was a child, a mere three years old.

Finally, I arrived at the clearing.

I glanced back at what used to be my home, the White Ray Pack. Sadly, it was no longer my home. In truth, it hadn't been since my tenth birthday, the day everything changed. This was where my parents resided, where my siblings lived, and where my mate trained to become a better Alpha. This place holds the memories of my childhood.

Yet, it was here, at this very spot, where I would bury my past. This was where I would leave behind the pathetic excuse of a life I had endured. I turned towards the border, knowing that once I crossed it, I would shed that old identity. I would become someone else, someone stronger. The fact that I lacked a wolf no longer mattered. I held onto hope, believing in myself and my ability to carve out a new path. If I had made it this far, then surely I could continue.

With each step I took closer to the border, I inched towards freedom. It was one step towards a new life, a step that would bury the girl I had been. It was a step away from my parents, my siblings, and my mate.

But then there was my grandmother. Should I really leave her behind? She was the only person who had truly cared about me, who had shown me love.

"You can. You have to," a voice echoed, though I couldn't identify its source. I looked around, finding no one in sight. "You have to, Aerowyn. This is for the better. This is for your future," the voice repeated. Who was speaking to me?

My future? Did I truly have one? Yes, I did. I had to believe that. I would build my own future, one that belonged to me alone. With renewed determination, I faced the border once more, sighing deeply. This was the right decision.

Closing my eyes, I took a deep breath, allowing the moment to wash over me. Without opening my eyes, I summoned the courage to take that significant step forward. It was the step that would forever change my life, altering my path in ways I couldn't yet fathom.

Aerowyn's POV

"Ouch," I winced, feeling the pain in my foot from all the walking. Thanks to my human speed, it seemed to be taking a toll on me. The sun was high in the sky now, intensifying the heat. Being in the woods only made it worse. I had changed into a black tank top, hoping it would provide some relief.

My hair was a mess, and I bore small cuts on my face, arms, and legs from navigating through the undergrowth.

By now, I was certain the pack was aware of my escape. They were probably celebrating my departure. But honestly, I didn't care. Their opinions held no weight for me anymore.

Deciding it was best to find a secluded area, a no man's land, where no packs would come hunting for me, I finally took a muchneeded break. Exhaustion washed over me, accompanied by the gnawing hunger in my stomach. I found respite beneath the shade of a towering oak tree. It was time to rest.

As I drifted into a dreamless sleep, a rare sense of peace washed over me. For the first time in five years, I experienced tranquil slumber.

But soon, voices disrupted the serenity. They were whispering, their words muffled and indistinguishable.

"Why is she in a wolf pack?" one voice, feminine, questioned.

"I don't know. She's human. Humans shouldn't be here," another voice responded.

In a jolt, I awoke, panic coursing through my veins. I flinched and instinctively jumped away from them, not fond of being touched. I looked at the two girls who had approached me. One appeared to be around my age or younger, while the other seemed about eighteen.

Both of them possessed striking green eyes. The younger girl had dark blonde hair, while the older one had a softer shade of blonde. Their facial features were similar, suggesting they were likely siblings.

The older girl wore a jamcolored jacket over a moss green top and ripped jeans below the knee. The younger girl donned a white tshirt with dirt stains and black sweatpants.

"Hey, calm down," the younger girl reassured me.

"You're a wolf," I uttered, my eyes fixated on her.

Great, just my luck—I had stumbled upon a werewolf.

Life seemed to bid me farewell, and the shadow of death loomed ever closer.

What more could I say? I stood on the precipice of demise.

"How do you know about our kind?" The younger girl asked, curiosity etched across her face.

"I was born into a werewolf family too, but I didn't receive a wolf. It doesn't matter anyway. I'm going to die," I replied, my fear hidden beneath a façade of strength. "You're a werewolf without a wolf?!" she exclaimed, her shock evident.

"What do you mean you're going to die?" The older girl chimed in, concerned knitting her brows.

"I trespassed into your territory," I admitted, hoping they would show mercy. It was worth a shot. "I'm truly sorry. I didn't mean to intrude. I was passing by, exhausted and seeking respite. Please, don't kill me," I pleaded, my eyes filled with desperation.

The older girl burst into laughter, causing the younger one to slap her back firmly. "Don't mind her. She's just scaring you," the younger girl reassured me, and I nodded, swallowing hard.

Once the laughter subsided, the older girl spoke again. "Don't worry, girl! We aren't part of this pack. My little sister and I are rogues too."

"Oh, I see. But, how... I mean, how did you end up in a pack if you're rogues?" I asked, confusion marring my features.

"Oh, honey, that's just how we live. We move from one pack to another. As soon as the alphas or betas start suspecting rogues in their midst, we move on to the next pack. Currently, we're with the 'Greenwood Pack'," the younger girl explained.

"By the way, I'm Alessia Bree Quinn. I'm seventeen," the older girl introduced herself. "And I'm Esmeralda Andrea Quinn. I'm fourteen. It's a pleasure to meet you," the younger girl added, grinning as she bowed. I couldn't help but laugh.

"I'm Aerowyn Aurélie Beau. I just turned fifteen. It's nice to meet you too," I said, returning their smiles.

"Beau? Wait a minute. Are you Beau as in Beau from the White Ray Pack?!" Alessia's eyes widened in realization. "Yes, I am," I replied, averting my gaze as a pang of pain shot through my chest.

"You're of Alpha bloodline?! Oh my God!" Esmeralda exclaimed. "But why aren't you with your pack? Why are you a rogue?" Alessia inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"It's a long story," I sighed, feeling a sense of shame wash over me. Why weren't they repulsed by me? I had already told them I didn't have a wolf.

"We have all day," Alessia reassured me. "If you share your story, maybe we'll share ours," Esmeralda added, a flicker of sadness lingering in her eyes.

With a heavy heart, I began to recount my tale.

"I'm the youngest in my family. My father is the Alpha, and my mother is the Luna. I had three siblings—a loving sister, a brother, and my twin. My family was the epitome of perfection. Everyone adored me, including the entire pack. From what I recall, I was known for my sarcasm, witty comments, and sass. I loved making people laugh," I reminisced, a smile forming a fond memory.

"Everything seemed perfect. Nothing was out of place. Then came my tenth birthday. As you probably know, every Alpha child undergoes their first shift on their tenth birthday. I was ecstatic. The idea of having a wolf companion thrilled me. The whole pack shared in my excitement.

"I still vividly remember the moment. As the clock approached 11:59, the anticipation built. I was practically shouting in excitement, jumping up and down. However, there was an underlying uneasiness in the pit of my stomach. I brushed it aside, determined to remain positive.

"When there were only five seconds left, the feeling intensified. And finally, as the clock struck midnight, I closed my eyes, prepared for the anticipated pain. I waited for my princess dress to tear, for the searing sensation others had described. I waited for the bones to break.

"But it never happened. Instead, I was met with the sound of my twin brother's voice. Ervin screamed out in pain, clutching his chest. I watched as his shirt ripped, bones breaking and arms contorting. Black fur emerged, and before my eyes, he transformed into his wolf form.

"I witnessed it all, my twin brother shifting before my very eyes. But I remained unchanged. That's when my parents realized I couldn't shift. They took me to the pack doctor, who confirmed that I lacked a wolf. I was informed that I possessed human genes. And that's when everything changed.

"I became the pack's disgrace, burdened with the title of an omega. I was treated horribly, subjected to mistreatment by my own mother, father, brother, sister, and even my twin. Even at school, I faced relentless bullying. My best friend remained by my side throughout it all, until my brother asked her out. She had harbored feelings for him for a long time, and she betrayed me, becoming one of my tormentors.

"The only person who truly loved and cared for me was my grandma..." I trailed off, a mix of sadness and nostalgia washing over me.

"What the heck?! That's unfair! Just wait until I meet them. They should be praying we don't cross paths. If I do, I'll give them a taste of their own medicine," Alessia gritted out angrily.

"They're fools! Just because she doesn't have a wolf doesn't mean she isn't part of their pack! Who knows, she might be a late bloomer," Esmeralda yelled, her voice filled with frustration.

"Hey, calm down. I'm not going back to them," I mumbled, feeling overwhelmed by their passion and protectiveness.

"Great, then you're coming with us!" Alessia declared.

"But, I... I don't want to be a burden," I hesitated, not wanting to impose on them.

"Nonsense!" Esmeralda interrupted. "You are not going to be a burden. You are like us. You may not have a wolf, but you are one of us."

"You don't have a choice. You're coming with us!" Alessia smirked, her determination shining through.

"You're not alone, Ari," Esmeralda smiled warmly, using the new nickname they had given me.

"Ari?" I asked, surprised.

"Yep, a nickname for you!" Esmeralda grinned. "Oh, my siblings used to call me that," I mumbled, touched by the familiarity.

"Then we'll come up with a new nickname for you, babe!" Alessia chimed in with excitement.

"Huh?" I asked, curious.

"We are your new team, your new family. We want to have our own special nickname for you," Alessia giggled.

Oh.

"Hey, you have necklaces like ours," Esmeralda pointed out, noticing the onyx and moonstone necklace I wore.

"My grandma gave it to me," I explained.

"Here are ours," Esmeralda said, showing me her stone necklace. Alessia displayed hers as well.

"A labradorite stone," I said, observing Esmeralda's necklace.

"An alexandrite," I noted, studying Alessia's necklace.

"Beautiful," I commented sincerely.

"You know the names? We never knew," Alessia said with surprise.

"My pack has a rich history of stones, crystals, and diamonds, among others. My grandma taught me the names," I shared with them.

"This black one is onyx, and this one is moonstone," I informed them.

"Our necklaces have the same design, except for the onyx. But the moonstone, labradorite, and alexandrite ones are identical," Alessia noticed.

She was right. They all shared the same design, with only the stones differing.

"We were from Blood Moon Pack. We used to live so happily," Alessia began their story.

"Wasn't Blood Moon Pack attacked by rogues three months ago?" I asked, recalling the news.

"Yes," Esmeralda confirmed sadly.

"We had a tightknit family—me, Esmi, Aaron, Mom, and Dad. Ron was our little brother. We were happy. Everything was perfect. A month before the attack, I found my mate, Daniel. He seemed like a sweetheart. Little did we know that he was pure evil," Alessia frowned, her gaze fixed on the night sky.

It was nighttime, and we found ourselves in Flower Wind Pack's territory.

"It was the day we were attacked. It was the day of our cousin David's Alpha ceremony. We were all so happy that he was finally going to become our Alpha," Alessia continued, her voice filled with a mix of sorrow and anger.

"Daniel was like a brother to me. He was kind and respected by everyone in the pack. Seeing his face behind that black mask shattered my belief in him. He killed David, our cousin and the future Alpha," Esmeralda continued, her voice filled with pain.

"That's how everything unfolded. The pack was furious, and they tried to fight back, but Daniel summoned his army. We were all captured and thrown into the pack cells. The beatings were relentless. There was no mercy, regardless of age or gender. Women suffered the most," Esmeralda's voice trembled with the weight of those memories.

"Daniel found a new mate, and I could feel the pain of it. It was excruciating. But I refused to break," Alessia interjected, her voice laced with determination.

"We were in no condition to fight. We were battered and bruised. Any man who dared to resist was either killed or subjected to severe beatings. Our cousin Darren, David's younger brother, stood up for the pack despite the brutal treatment he endured. The former Luna, our aunt, also fought for the pack tirelessly," Esmeralda explained, her voice tinged with both sadness and resilience.

"The following day, before dawn, our parents woke us. They had discovered a way for us to escape and go rogue. One of the guards had left our cell door open. But before we could all make our escape, they discovered our plan and launched an attack," Esmeralda sighed, recalling the harrowing experience.

"Only the two of us made it out alive, just me and Ale," Esmeralda said, glancing at her sister, who silently wept beside her.

It was clear that Alessia had endured unimaginable pain and suffering. Her mate had turned out to be a villain, having mated another woman and even taking the life of her own brother. The depth of his cruelty was truly sickening.

"I'm sorry," I mumbled, my voice choked with tears.

"It doesn't matter anymore. We are not alone anymore. Now, we have you," Alessia said, rising to her feet. Confusion filled my face as I asked, "What do you mean?"

"Rowy! Now we have you. Me and Ale are not alone anymore. We have found a partner, a friend, a true companion," Esmeralda beamed, joining Alessia in standing.

"Um...thank you, guys! It means a lot to me," I smiled in gratitude. I had never experienced such a sense of belonging in the past five years. This feeling was entirely new to me, and I reveled in it. It was the love and acceptance I had been yearning for.

"Come on, girl! Stand up! It's time for a group hug!" Esmeralda and Alessia exclaimed in unison. Laughter escaped my lips as I stood up, joining them.

We wrapped our arms around each other tightly, forming a circle of solidarity and support. When we finally pulled away, our eyes were filled with warmth and determination. We raised our gaze to the sky, our arms resting on one another's shoulders.

Esmeralda on my left. Alessia on my right.

A shooting star streaked across the heavens, capturing our attention. Tradition dictated that we make a wish upon witnessing this celestial phenomenon.

"This is our new family," Alessia whispered, her eyes glistening with tears of joy. A brilliant smile graced her face.

"A new family," Esmeralda affirmed with a nod.

"A new family, indeed," I echoed, my own smile matching theirs.

"Every story has an end," Alessia began to say.

"But in life," Esmeralda continued.

"Every ending is just a new beginning," I finished, my gaze fixed upon the radiant moon.

The moon, luminous and full, seemed to smile down upon us, as if in agreement with our words.

"A new family. A new future. A new beginning," the familiar voice resonated within me.

And the voice was right. Leaving my old pack had been necessary for a better future, and it led me to these two beautiful souls who now slumbered peacefully before me.

Fate had intervened, uniting our paths and guiding us toward the promise of a brighter tomorrow.