I had thought that he would accept me, but he had rejected me. It was a crushing blow, and in that moment, it felt like my world had shattered into a million pieces.I glared at him, tears streaming down my face, and said, "I Ava Sullivan I accept Jackson Hartley, the Beta of Lunarbane, rejection." As I spoke those words, the pain in my chest grew stronger, and I noticed Jackson clutching his own chest. In a matter of seconds he stopped and looked at me with anger, his anger turned into a sneer. "Let's pick up where we left off," he said coldly. My eyes widened in fear as he lifted me off the ground. "You think you're brave, huh?" he snarled. But then, he abruptly put me down, and I gasped for air like my life depended on it. He whispered in my ear, "Remember what I said last time?" His words sent a shiver down my spine, reminding me of our previous encounter "I have no intention of taking your innocence yet". I looked at him with wide eyes as I stared at him, my voice trembling, "S...so you knew?" Before I could finish my sentence, he cut me off, his words dripping with disdain. "Yes, my little slut. I've been aware that you are my mate since I turned eighteen, patiently waiting for this moment. Now, everything will go just as I've planned." His interruption left me feeling a mix of fear and disbelief. I couldn't fathom someone could be so selfish and disgusting. My anger and disgust towards him grew stronger, wishing I had the strength to confront him, but knowing I stood no chance.