Preview of The Blackwood Shadow: The ben

Chapter 1 – Forbidden Beginnings

Natalia POV

Today marks a pivotal moment in my life, as I stand on the precipice of discovering whether I am truly Damon’s mate. Four years have passed since our paths intertwined, a journey that began in the hallways of high school, where we were young sweethearts navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence together. As I sit at my vanity, meticulously preparing for the grand party that awaits, my mind drifts back through the tapestry of our shared memories. I never imagined I would be so fortunate to walk beside someone like him. Damon, the future alpha of the Ironwood Pack, carries an aura of strength and leadership that draws everyone to him. Reflecting on our early days, I can’t help but think that if he hadn’t been so desperate to pass his math class, he might never have noticed me at all. Despite the challenges we faced, our relationship has been a beautiful whirlwind. Yes, we’ve encountered our share of highs and lows, but what couple hasn’t? Each moment, whether filled with joy or sorrow, has woven us closer together, even as whispers from the pack remind me of my lowly status.

“Come on, Natalia! What is taking you so long?” My adoptive mother’s voice echoes up the staircase, laced with impatience and a hint of concern. I let out a heavy sigh, the sound mingling with the rustle of fabric as I carefully slide my feet into the delicate heels that elevate my stature but also amplify my anxiety. Each step down the staircase feels like a journey through a labyrinth of emotions, leading me closer to my adoptive parents, who await my arrival with eager anticipation.

As I descend, I can’t help but reflect on the void left by my biological parents, figures shrouded in mystery and whispers. I was raised on tales of their valor and betrayal, warriors who once fought for the pack but ultimately turned against it. The narrative has always felt like a heavy cloak draped over my shoulders, one I never fully accepted. Deep down, I’ve always questioned the truth of their actions, wondering if they were truly the villains the pack painted them to be.

“We need to hurry to the celebration; we can’t miss the alpha’s highly anticipated coming-of-age ceremony,” my adoptive father insisted, his voice firm yet tinged with excitement. As we make our way toward the pack house, a wave of anxiety and dread crashes over me, threatening to pull me under. The thought that I might not be Damon’s destined mate gnaws at my insides, even though a part of me clings to the belief that I am. The connection I feel with him is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced with anyone else, a bond that seems to transcend the ordinary.

As I step through the grand entrance of the pack house, the atmosphere buzzes with excitement and anticipation. The elegant ballroom is adorned with shimmering lights and vibrant decorations, casting a warm glow over the gathered crowd. My heart races as I scan the room, searching for Damon, the man who has captured my heart and ignited my hopes. There he is, standing confidently with his friends, laughter spilling from their group as they lean against the back wall, exuding an air of charisma that draws everyone in.

With determination, I begin to make my way toward him, weaving through clusters of pack members engaged in animated conversations. Just as I feel a surge of hope, I am abruptly halted by none other than Carmella, the Beta’s daughter. She stands before me, her posture radiating authority and disdain, a smirk playing on her lips that sends a chill down my spine.

“What do you think you are doing here?” She sneered, her voice dripping with condescension. “Don’t tell me that you truly believe you’re going to be Damon’s mate.” Her laughter rings out, sharp and mocking, echoing in the festive atmosphere. “Hate to break it to you, but you are a nobody in this pack. Damon is just having his fun with you right now, but you can never live up to being anything other than a useless omega.”

Her words cut deep, each syllable a reminder of the whispers that follow me, the doubts that gnaw at my confidence. I stand there, heart pounding, feeling the weight of her judgment and the eyes of the pack upon me as I grapple with the reality of my place in this world.

I inhaled deeply, allowing the tension to ebb away as I locked my gaze onto hers, feeling the weight of the moment settle around us. “Soon enough, we’ll discover who truly holds Damon’s heart,” I declared, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling within me. “And even if fate doesn’t align in my favor, I refuse to be diminished by your arrogance. I am more than just a shadow in this pack.” With a surge of defiance, I pushed her aside, the movement fueled by a mix of anger and determination. Each step I took toward Damon felt deliberate, my heart racing as I navigated through the crowd, the whispers of doubt still echoing in my mind but overshadowed by the flicker of hope that he might still choose me.

As I approach him, his warm smile envelops me like a soft blanket, and he gently pulls me closer, his arm wrapping securely around my waist. In this moment, I feel a rush of safety and belonging, even as I stand amidst the judgmental gazes of the pack members around us. Their sneers cut through the festive atmosphere, but I find solace in his embrace, a sanctuary from the harsh reality that surrounds me. My heart swells with a mix of hope and fear, longing for this moment to stretch into eternity. I yearn for the comfort of his presence to shield me from the whispers that haunt my thoughts. After all, he holds my heart, and I have entrusted him with my first experiences of love, trust, and vulnerability, making this connection feel all the more precious.

Chapter 2 – Coming-of-Age Party

As the momentous occasion approached, Damon stepped into the spotlight, flanked by his proud parents, Alpha Gavin and Luna Linda Holloway. The air was thick with anticipation, as the gathered shifters, young and old, understood that this ceremony marked a significant milestone in their lives. While it is true that we, as shifters, possess the ability to transform into our wolf forms from a tender age, this event transcends mere physical transformation. It symbolizes the pivotal coming-of-age journey to discover and recognize one’s destined mate. With a voice that resonated with authority and warmth, Gavin delivered a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the profound bond that would form once Damon identifies his mate. He spoke of the responsibilities that would follow, outlining how this discovery would initiate the gradual process of transferring leadership of the pack to Damon, ensuring the legacy of their lineage would continue under his guidance. The crowd listened intently, their eyes reflecting a mix of hope and excitement for the future that lay ahead.

As the minutes dragged on, my nerves felt like fragile threads, ready to snap at any moment. The atmosphere was thick with tension, and I could feel the weight of the pack members’ stares upon me—some filled with disdain, others laced with pity. It was a strange mix that only heightened my anxiety. Suddenly, the moment I had been dreading arrived. Gavin, standing tall and confident, scanned the crowd, searching for the familiar scent of his mate. But when his gaze locked onto mine, the world around us seemed to freeze, the air thickening with unspoken words. He shook his head slowly, a gesture that sent a chill down my spine, before he began leaning in to whisper something to his parents. Even with our heightened senses, the words were lost to us, shrouded in secrecy.

As I stood there, my gaze was irresistibly drawn to Damon and his family, who moved with a purposeful grace toward a secluded room, their footsteps resonating with the weight of the moment. Each step they took seemed to amplify the tension in the air, and I felt as if I were suffocating under the pressure of unspoken expectations. My heart pounded violently against my rib cage, threatening to burst forth, yet I refused to show any sign of weakness in front of them. An unsettling feeling gnawed at my insides, a sense that something was amiss. The look Damon cast in my direction was laden with unspoken words, a silent acknowledgment that something was indeed wrong—if not deeply troubling.

“Oh, poor baby,” Carmella purred mockingly, her voice dripping with condescension. “I warned you that you are nothing, and it appears the moon goddess agrees with me,” she sneered, her laughter echoing like a taunt in my ears. Despite the urge to flee from her venomous words, I stood my ground, my posture unwavering. “No one truly understands what is unfolding here. But even if I’m not his mate, it seems you’re not destined for him either,” I retorted, a chuckle escaping my lips as I turned away, feeling a mix of defiance and relief wash over me.

As I stepped onto the balcony, the sprawling garden below seemed to stretch endlessly, mirroring the turmoil within me. I leaned against the railing, my heart heavy with the weight of uncertainty. What if I wasn’t meant to be his mate? The thought gnawed at me, a relentless whisper in the back of my mind. I could leave, I reminded myself, a flicker of hope igniting in the darkness. A trusted friend of my parents had revealed a secret I had never known: I had a grandmother living beyond the pack lands, in rogue territory. It was a place I could escape to, a sanctuary until I figured out my path in this chaotic world.

Lost in my thoughts, I barely noticed the gentle touch on my shoulder until it sent a shiver down my spine. I turned slowly, my breath hitching in my throat as I met Damon’s gaze. His eyes, usually so full of warmth and mischief, were now clouded with anguish. The pain etched on his face was palpable, and an instinctive dread settled in my stomach. I knew, deep down, what was coming before he even uttered the words that would shatter my heart. “I, Damon Halloway, future alpha of the Ironwood pack, reject you, Natalia Blackwood.”

A wave of relief washed over me that I wasn’t of age yet, but it was quickly eclipsed by a suffocating despair. I had heard the stories of the agony that accompanied the severing of a mate bond, and I felt a cold sweat break out across my skin. Damon staggered back, clutching his chest as if the words had physically struck him. “Why? We have been together for years, Damon. Why would you throw it all away like that?” My voice trembled, barely above a whisper, each word laced with heartbreak and disbelief. The betrayal cut deeper than any wound, leaving me raw and exposed.

He reached out, his hand trembling as he attempted to touch my cheek, a gesture that once would have brought comfort. But fury surged within me, and I slapped his hand away, the sound echoing in the stillness of the garden. How could he destroy what we had built together so carelessly? The bond we shared felt like a fragile thread, and he had severed it without a second thought. My heart raced, a tempest of emotions swirling inside me—anger, sorrow, and a profound sense of loss.

“I…I loved you more than I can express, Natalia,” he murmured, his voice trembling with a mix of sorrow and resolve, “but I cannot be your mate. You lack the strength to be Luna.” Each word felt like a dagger piercing through my heart, leaving me breathless and reeling from the impact. I turned my gaze away, desperate to escape the pain, only to find Carmella lurking by the sliding glass door, her smirk a cruel reminder of my shattered hopes.

“I, Natalia Blackwood, accept your rejection,” I declared, my voice steady despite the storm raging within me. The words felt foreign, heavy on my tongue, as if they were tearing me apart from the inside. I locked eyes with Carmella, feeling the weight of her triumph as the finality of my acceptance settled in, a bitter taste of defeat lingering in the air.

Chapter 3 – The Parents’ Verdict

Damon POV

As I stand up there, overlooking the sea of faces, a profound sense of loss washes over me. I had felt the undeniable pull of my mate some time ago, yet the weight of reality pressed down on me like a heavy shroud. I had hoped for a few more years of freedom before the mantle of leadership fell upon my shoulders. In that time, I envisioned Natalia growing stronger, her spirit blossoming until she could stand proudly beside me as my equal.

“Can I have a word?” I leaned in close to my parents, my voice barely a whisper, a secret meant only for them. As we made our way to Dad’s office, an icy dread coiled in my stomach, a premonition of the pain that awaited us. Natalia was everything a Luna should be—radiant, compassionate, and fiercely kind. Yet, the harsh truth loomed over us: her perceived weakness could spell disaster for the pack. She struggled to shift, her power barely flickering beneath the surface.

The bond we shared was intoxicating, a connection that promised strength and unity, yet I felt the gnawing fear of rebellion lurking in the shadows. If I were to claim her as my mate, the whispers of dissent would surely rise. The thought of my pack turning against me, fueled by the bloodline of traitors, sent a chill down my spine. I longed to protect her, to shield her from the harsh judgments of our world, but the stakes were too high. My heart ached with the knowledge that love alone might not be enough to save us.

The door clicked shut behind me, sealing off the world outside, and I made my way to the mini bar nestled in the corner, my heart pounding with a mix of anticipation and dread. I poured myself a drink, the amber liquid swirling in the glass, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me. Alcohol had never been a significant indulgence for shifters; it took a considerable amount to even feel a hint of a buzz. Yet, in this moment, I craved the burn, hoping it would dull the ache that gnawed at my insides.

“What is this about, son?” my father’s voice cut through the silence, his impatience palpable as he seized my arm, turning me to face him. I could see the concern etched on his face, but it was overshadowed by the weight of expectation. I raised the glass to my lips, letting the fiery liquid slide down my throat, hoping to find solace in its warmth. “I found my mate,” I muttered, the words barely escaping my lips, heavy with the gravity of their meaning.

The smiles that blossomed on their faces were almost too perfect, a facade of joy that felt out of place in the storm brewing within me. They seemed genuinely happy, their eyes sparkling with excitement. “Well, who is it?” my mother asked eagerly, her voice laced with curiosity and hope. I took a deep breath, locking eyes with both of them, my heart racing as I steadied my breathing, preparing for the inevitable shift in their expressions. “Natalia,” I whispered, the name hanging in the air like a fragile promise.

In an instant, the atmosphere shifted, the air around us thickening with an oppressive darkness. Their smiles faltered, replaced by a shadow of concern that mirrored my own fears. I could feel the weight of their expectations pressing down on me, the unspoken judgments swirling in the silence. The joy I had hoped to share felt like a distant memory, overshadowed by the reality of our world and the challenges that lay ahead.

“And do you truly intend to claim her?” my father asked, his voice trembling slightly with a mix of disbelief and concern after the initial shock had settled. “Have you considered the ramifications for this pack if she were to ascend as Luna?” he continued, his gaze piercing through me like a dagger. My head hung low, the weight of the situation pressing down on me like an anchor, threatening to pull me under. I understood that I should honor the moon goddess’s decree, yet the judgment of others loomed large in my mind, casting a shadow over my heart.

“What do you propose, Father?” I replied, my voice strained as I fought to keep my emotions in check. “The moon goddess has woven our fates together. Natalia has stood by my side through the darkest of times, lifting me when I faltered, guiding me through the trials of school when I thought I would fail.” I spoke fervently, desperation creeping into my tone as I tried to defend her, even though deep down, I was painfully aware of the impossibility of our situation.

“Claim Carmella as your mate,” Dad declared, his voice firm and unyielding, as if he were delivering a sentence. “Reject Natalia, and make a public declaration of your bond with Carmella. She is the daughter of the Beta, comes from a strong lineage, and possesses both beauty and strength.” His words hung in the air, heavy with expectation and finality, leaving me grappling with a tumult of emotions—fear, helplessness, and an aching sense of loss for what could never be.

My heart felt heavy with an unbearable dread as I nodded, the weight of what I had to do pressing down on me like a leaden cloak. I stepped out of the room, urgency propelling me forward in search of Natalia, fearing that if I hesitated, the courage to speak the words would slip away forever. The ballroom was a sea of faces, with laughter and music swirling around me, but I couldn’t find her among the crowd. My pulse quickened as I approached the balcony doors, desperate to catch a glimpse of her one last time.

There she was, leaning against the railing, her gaze lost in the distance, as if she were searching for answers in the stars. The sight of her took my breath away; she was a vision of grace and beauty, yet I could see the shadows of doubt clouding her expression. I lingered for a moment, my heart aching as I took in her beauty one last time, wishing I could freeze this moment in time, where everything felt perfect, even if just for a heartbeat.

With a deep breath, I summoned every ounce of strength I had left and walked towards her, my hand trembling as I gently touched her shoulder. She turned to face me, and in that instant, I was struck by the depth of her eyes, a mixture of hope and fear reflecting back at me. I realized that if I didn’t find the words soon, they would remain trapped inside me forever, a silent scream echoing in the void. “I, Damon Halloway, future alpha of the Ironwood pack, reject you, Natalia Blackwood.” The words fell from my lips like a death sentence, each syllable laced with anguish. As I spoke, I felt a part of my soul shatter, the bond we shared fraying at the edges. I watched her expression shift from confusion to heartbreak, and in that moment, I knew I had irrevocably altered the course of our lives.

Chapter 4 – Rejection & Ruin

Damon POV

The expression on Natalia’s face was a tempest of raw hatred, a storm brewing in her eyes that cut through me like ice. I could feel the weight of her disdain, a palpable force that wrapped around us, yet beneath that fierce exterior, I sensed the flicker of something deeper—love, perhaps, buried beneath layers of hurt and betrayal. We had never uttered those words aloud, but I understood her unspoken feelings; she was an open book, her emotions laid bare for all to see.

“Damon, it’s time to tell everyone who your mate is,” Carmella’s voice sliced through the tension, echoing in the silence that hung heavy in the air. I turned to Natalia, desperation clawing at my insides as I reached out for her one last time, my wolf howling in anguish within me. But she pushed me away with a force that felt like a physical blow, her eyes blazing with fury as she stormed off the balcony, joining the throng of our pack inside.

As I stepped back into the ballroom, the atmosphere crackled with anticipation. I took center stage, my heart pounding in my chest as I scanned the crowd, my gaze locking onto Natalia’s figure. She stood there, a statue of heartbreak, and I couldn’t tear my eyes away from her. “I, Damon Halloway, future alpha of the Ironwood pack, take Carmella Lightclaw as my mate,” I declared, my voice steady yet laced with an undercurrent of sorrow. The words hung in the air, a heavy weight that felt like a betrayal to both of us.

Cheers erupted around me, a cacophony of joy that felt foreign and hollow. But amidst the celebration, the fury etched on Natalia’s face was unmistakable, a vivid reminder of the pain I had just inflicted. Her expression was a mirror of devastation, and in that moment, I realized the true cost of my choice.

As I stepped down from the platform, a wave of pack members surged forward, eager to offer their congratulations, their voices a chorus of hollow praise that echoed in my ears. My wolf simmered in the depths of my mind, a tempest of fury and regret at the choice I had just made. I felt like a ghost, totally detached from the celebration, my gaze fixated on Natalia, who stood at the edge of the crowd, a target for the venomous words being hurled her way.

Their whispers, laced with disgust and resentment, reached my ears like daggers, each syllable a reminder of the betrayal I had inflicted. I watched as her beautiful face, once radiant with joy, now flickered with a fierce hatred for those who dared to surround her. Yet, amidst the storm of emotions swirling around her, she remained unyielding, standing tall and proud—a true testament to her strength.

“I hope you all know that this pack is doomed for failure. Your dear alpha just mocked the moon goddess,” she declared, her voice dripping with scorn as she turned away from the sea of mocking faces. There was a haunting laughter in her tone, a bitter echo of defiance that resonated deep within me. As she walked away, I could see the pain etched into her features, a heart breaking beneath the weight of betrayal, and I felt a profound sense of loss wash over me. In that moment, I realized that the true cost of my decision was not just the love I had forsaken, but the very soul of the woman that was stronger than anyone ever realized.

Natalia POV

I stepped out of the ballroom, the echoes of laughter and celebration fading behind me as I made my way down the familiar road towards the house that had been my refuge for so many years. Yet, despite the years spent within its walls, it never truly felt like home. Instead, it was a constant reminder of my status as a burden, the one taken in out of mere pity. Each step felt heavier as I stumbled through the door, the weight of my reality pressing down on me. I climbed the stairs, each creak of the wood beneath my feet a haunting reminder of the countless nights spent in solitude.

Crossing the threshold into my room, I paused, allowing the memories to wash over me. The walls were adorned with remnants of a life intertwined with Damon, each object a bittersweet reminder of what could have been. I approached the closet, my heart aching as I began to gather my clothes, stuffing them into a worn backpack. I only chose the items I had earned through my own efforts as a tutor, a small victory in a life filled with struggles. Though it wasn’t much, they were mine—tokens of my independence in a world that had often stripped me of it.

This pack, my so-called family, had given me nothing but grief. I had borne the brunt of their hatred, the cruel jests and disdainful glances from every Ironwood pack member. I had learned to fend for myself, scavenging for scraps or hunting for my meals, a constant fight for survival. They often questioned why shifting was such a challenge for me, oblivious to the fact that I was malnourished and treated worse than an omega. Yet, despite it all, I held my head high, determined to carry myself with dignity, even when the world around me sought to break me.

As I finished packing the last of my belongings, I sank onto the edge of the bed, the weight of my decision pressing heavily on my chest. The room felt suffocating, each breath a reminder of the life I was leaving behind—a life filled with pain and rejection. I glanced around, taking in the faded walls that had witnessed my struggles, the echoes of laughter from the party down the road drifting through the window like a cruel taunt. They were celebrating, oblivious to the turmoil raging within me. I could hear the music pulsing, the joyous shouts of my pack members mingling with the clinking of glasses, a stark contrast to the storm brewing in my heart. I knew the festivities would continue long into the night, a celebration of betrayal that I could no longer bear to witness. By the time the first light of dawn broke through the darkness, I would be far away from this place, leaving behind not just the pack but the memories that haunted me like shadows. My resolve hardened; I would not look back.

Chapter 5 – The Departure

Natalia POV

It was finally time. Time to embrace a new beginning. Time to prioritize my own needs and desires. With a sense of determination swelling within me, I carefully gathered my worn backpack, feeling its familiar weight against my back, and stepped outside into the crisp air. The towering treeline of the woods beckoned me, a sanctuary away from the constraints of my past life.

I paused for a moment, placing the pack on the ground, and took a deep breath, inhaling the earthy scent of the forest. With a sense of liberation, I began to strip off my clothes, each piece falling away like the burdens I had carried for too long. I tucked them into the pack, feeling lighter with each item I removed.

As I stood there, vulnerable yet empowered, I closed my eyes and focused inward, calling upon Nova, my inner spirit, to guide me through the transformation. The excruciating pain of my bones cracking and reshaping coursed through me, a reminder of the price of freedom. But as I finally landed on the forest floor, my body now adorned with four powerful white paws, an exhilarating rush of freedom surged through me. It was as if I had shed not just my clothes but the very essence of my past.

With a newfound sense of purpose, I grasped the backpack firmly between my jaws, the fabric rough against my teeth, and summoned Nova once more. Together, we would navigate the winding paths of the woods, heading towards my grandmother’s house, a place where I hoped to find solace and strength in my journey of self-discovery.

Leaves rustled beneath my paws, sending soft tremors through the earth as Nova’s presence curled protectively within me. The trees seemed denser now, the air around us thick with the quiet wisdom of the old forest. Every scent was magnified—damp moss, sweet decay, and the faint trace of deer passing through. I kept my ears pricked and nose low, following instincts that felt ancient and raw.

Every step away from Ironwood carried the ache of severed ties but also a pulse of hope. My mind replayed flashes of the pack—Damon’s stormy gaze, the cold finality in Alpha’s words, and the familiar laughter now distant. Each memory faded like mist behind me, replaced by the heartfelt certainty that this path, wild and uncertain as it was, belonged to me alone.

Nova’s guidance steered me true. I trusted in her wisdom, and in the silent rhythm of my four-legged stride, I found reassurance. We would reach my grandmother’s house by dusk if we kept a steady pace. The promise of her warm kitchen and steady, understanding hands beckoned on the horizon, a lifeline pulling me forward.

A distant howl rolled out in the twilight, neither friend nor foe—a reminder that I was not alone in these woods. My heart hammered, but I pressed on. Whatever dangers lay ahead were challenges to be faced on my own terms. With Nova and my newfound purpose, I was ready to meet whatever waited in the gathering dusk.

I sprinted through the underbrush, my heart racing with exhilaration, until I stumbled upon a quaint little cottage nestled among the trees, its weathered wooden walls and smoke curling from the chimney inviting me closer. My grandmother, Haley Blackwood, was sitting outside on her wrap-around porch. I paused in my steps, asking Nova to switch back. Once I was back in human form, I grabbed some clothes out of my bag and yanked them on. I turned away from the cottage and said the words that would sever all ties with the world I hated. “I, Natalia Blackwood, denounce the Ironwood pack and declare myself rogue.”

Damon’s POV

As the last echoes of laughter and music faded into the night, I felt an unsettling emptiness settle in my chest. The celebrations were winding down, yet my thoughts remained anchored to Natalia, a constant ache that gnawed at my heart. It was a feeling I couldn’t quite describe, a deep-seated sense whispering that this might be the final moment I would ever encounter her. Just moments ago, her adoptive parents had departed, their hurried footsteps echoing in the silence, leaving me with a flicker of hope that they might check on her. But deep down, I recognized that this was merely a fleeting wish, a desperate thought that wouldn’t materialize.

The truth was painfully clear: the disdain for Natalia ran deep within this pack, a collective sentiment that had been ingrained over time. They viewed her as an outsider and a burden, and I was no exception to this harsh judgment. I often found myself caught in the tide of their opinions, believing that if I stood by her side, perhaps I could change their minds; maybe I could make things right. But the reality was stark; whether she was with me or alone, the treatment she received remained unchanged.

I couldn’t entirely fault them, though. I had been complicit in their cruelty, allowing my silence to speak volumes. I had never once mustered the courage to defend her, to stand up against the tide of negativity that surrounded her. What did that say about me? I was left grappling with my own shortcomings, the weight of my inaction pressing heavily on my conscience. The thought of her enduring this pain alone while I stood idly by was a bitter pill to swallow, and it left me questioning my own integrity. In that moment, as the last remnants of the celebration faded into the night, I realized that my heart was not just heavy with sorrow for her struggle but also burdened by the guilt of my own failures.

The sound of my father’s hurried footsteps reverberated through the grand ballroom, a stark contrast to the fading echoes of laughter and music that had filled the air just moments before. “It’s Natalia. She’s missing,” he announced, his voice cutting through the lingering merriment like a knife. There was an unsettling clarity in his tone, as if the revelation brought him a twisted sense of relief, a burden lifted from his shoulders. “I felt a pack bond break; she either died or denounced the pack,” he continued, his words heavy with the weight of finality. The implications hung in the air, thick with tension, as the reality of her absence settled over us like a dark cloud, leaving a chill in the once vibrant atmosphere.

Chapter 6 – The secret that needs to be shared

Natalia POV

As I slowly opened my eyes in the cozy room where Grandma had graciously allowed me to stay, a wave of relief washed over me. The familiar scent of lavender and old books filled the air, reminding me of the warmth and safety I had longed for. I could feel the weight of my past beginning to lift, but the uncertainty of how my life would transform lingered in my mind. I yearned for improvement, for a chance to reclaim my identity and earn the respect I had always craved.

A soft knock on the door broke my reverie. I turned my head to see Grandma peeking in, her silver hair catching the morning light. “Good, you’re up,” she said with a bright smile, pushing the door open wider to reveal her full presence. “So… what are your plans now that you’ve finally shed that god-awful pack from your shoulders?” Her eyes sparkled with curiosity and encouragement.

I swung my legs off the bed, feeling the coolness of the wooden floor beneath my feet. Rummaging through my bag, I quickly pulled out a simple outfit, the fabric soft against my skin as I dressed. Once ready, I made my way over to Grandma, who was perched gracefully on the edge of the bed, her posture exuding a quiet strength. I looked into her wise eyes and spoke from the heart, “I want to be worthy. I want to embrace a life of freedom and earn the respect I’ve always desired.” My voice was steady, filled with determination. Grandma nodded, her expression one of understanding and pride.

As she rose to her feet, the elegance with which she carried herself was truly magnificent. She moved toward the door with a purposeful grace, her presence commanding yet comforting. “Then I have some important things to share with you,” she said, her tone serious yet inviting. “It has been a long time coming, and I believe that you are finally ready to hear it.” Her words hung in the air, promising revelations that would shape my journey ahead.

As she gracefully exited the room, the door creaked softly behind her, leaving me enveloped in a thick silence that echoed with her words. My mind raced with questions, each one more pressing than the last. Was I truly prepared to uncover the secrets she had guarded for so long? Would she finally reveal the truth about my parents, the very essence of my existence? I took a deep breath, feeling a surge of determination as I stood tall, my spine straightening with resolve. With purposeful steps, I began to follow her down the narrow hallway that led to the kitchen, the scent of freshly brewed tea wafting through the air, mingling with the anticipation that hung heavily around me. “Sit, my child,” she instructed gently, her voice a soothing balm amidst my swirling thoughts. She gestured toward the old wooden table, its surface worn and scarred, each mark telling a story of its own, inviting me to take a seat and prepare for the revelations that awaited.

I settled into the worn wooden chair, anticipation bubbling within me as Grandma moved gracefully around the kitchen, her hands deftly preparing tea. The rhythmic clinking of porcelain echoed softly as she selected two delicate cups, each adorned with intricate floral patterns, and carefully placed them on the table, one positioned directly in front of me. The aroma of fresh tea leaves began to fill the air, mingling with the comforting scent of baked goods that lingered from earlier.

With a gentle flourish, she lifted the steaming kettle, its spout glistening in the warm light, and positioned it carefully in the center of the table, the steam curling upwards like a whisper of secrets waiting to be shared. Just as I reached out, eager to pour the hot water myself, Grandma’s voice, rich and soothing, halted my movement. “There is no need, child,” she said, her eyes twinkling with a knowing warmth as she nodded towards my cup.

Curiosity piqued, I glanced down to find the tea bag already steeping in the cup, the water swirling around it, releasing a deep amber hue. When had she poured the water? The realization struck me like a fleeting shadow—had I been so lost in thought that I missed the moment? A wave of confusion washed over me, leaving me to wonder if I had been daydreaming, caught in the delicate balance between reality and the comforting embrace of nostalgia.

“You were not lost in a daydream, my dear child. This is one of the many truths I need you to grasp,” she said, her voice steady and warm as she lifted the delicate porcelain cup to her lips, savoring the fragrant steam that curled upward. With a gentle sip, she seemed to draw strength from the tea, her eyes sparkling with wisdom.

“I’m feeling quite confused.” If I wasn’t zoning out, then when exactly did you manage to pour the water for the tea?” I murmured, my gaze still fixed on the steaming mug, the swirling liquid reflecting my own confusion. As I glanced up, I noticed Grandma’s expression soften, her eyes filled with a mixture of affection and understanding.

“You have so much to learn, my sweet girl,” she replied, her voice a soothing melody that wrapped around me like a warm blanket. She reached across the table, her hand enveloping mine in a gentle grasp, grounding me in the moment. “You are not merely a wolf, my child; you are so much more than that. You carry within you a legacy, a power that is waiting to be awakened.”

She gracefully rose to her feet, her hand reaching out to mine with a gentle yet firm grasp. As I felt her warm fingers wrap around my own, a sense of trust enveloped me, compelling me to follow her outside. The air was crisp, filled with the earthy scent of damp leaves and the distant sound of rustling branches. We stepped into the embrace of the woods, where the sunlight filtered through the canopy above, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. I walked closely behind her, nervousness bubbling within me as I wondered about our destination.

After a short trek through the thick underbrush, where the vibrant greens of moss and ferns surrounded us, we emerged into a small clearing. There, nestled among the towering trees, stood another old cottage. However, this one exuded an aura of mystery and foreboding, its dark wooden beams and overgrown vines giving it a more sinister appearance than any dwelling I had encountered before.

“Liam!” Grandma called out, her voice echoing through the stillness of the forest as she stepped into the clearing with purpose. “Liam, I’m here with a guest. Do not cause harm to her.” Her tone was commanding yet laced with an underlying warmth, as if she were both warning and reassuring. The air felt charged with anticipation, and I could sense the weight of the moment as we awaited the response from within the shadows of the cottage.

Read the rest on WattPad. Look for me Nicola Burns to view the published stories I had written. I removed my previous versions and will be putting them back up soon.