Moon Children

TRANSGRESSIONS (3)

Ezra’s POV 

My head was racing, so I ran off to the woods. There was a small stream across the North and Northeast lines, with a fallen tree next to it that was perfect to sit up against and catch my breath. Felix was angry with me and didn’t want to speak, and I didn’t blame him. I caused our mate so much pain. I ignored her for 9 years leaving her without her best friend and no explanation, and then for last 4 years she suffered from my indiscretions. I would take back every meaningless lay if only I could. I felt tears stinging my eyes but for once, I didn’t even try to fight them. I was alone with my thoughts and totally vulnerable. 

“I’m sorry too.” Luca mind-linked to me. 

“I should’ve told you and sworn you to secrecy.” I replied. 

“Yeah, but I wouldn’t have listened and then we would be in an even bigger mess. I shouldn’t have flipped so bad. Meet me at the tree line by my house? He asked. 

“Youre right, you’d be dead. Give me 30 minutes.” I dropped the link and shifted into a massive black wolf, the sign of a true Alpha. 

Once I neared the Moon’s house, I shifted back and threw some grey basketball shorts that had been stashed away in a tree trunk nearby. Luca also came from the woods, in the opposite direction. He also only had a pair of shorts on, but black in color instead. He walked closer, letting the silence between us linger for a moment before speaking. 

“I just can’t believe you didn’t tell me before this. I get it now, but I’m still hurt. I think I deserved to know more than anybody man.” Luc states sadly. 

“Everybody thought they deserved to know, but the truth is it would’ve done more harm than good. You can’t even begin to imagine how I’m feeling right now. I’ve done so much s**t I can’t take back, and now I’ve got to face it all. My head I spinning from all the stress!” 

Suddenly, a random party song started pumping out from their house. When I looked up, I saw a wide-open set of French doors behind a small balcony. I caught a whiff of the sweetest aroma, cinnamon buns and spearmint – Darci's scent. I forgot we were standing right on the side of the house where her bedroom is. The music switched to a slower alternative-punk song almost immediately.  She’s always listened to that type of music, I’ve paid far more attention to her through the years than I’d allow myself to admit. I lowered my voice so she wouldn’t be able to hear it, just in case. 

“I’ll make everything right tomorrow. I have to. She deserves so much better than me but I will be her everything, if she’ll let me.” I spoke to Luca with so much fierceness in my voice, I almost sound angry. I guess I am angry, with myself. The pressure of becoming Alpha and my mate knowing what we are tomorrow has me wrecked. 

“Damn right she does, but I guess you’ll do.” He slaps my shoulder and chuckles quietly. 

“Alright, I guess I better get ready for tomorrow. Wish me luck.” I half-joke to my best friend.  

“Good night man, and good luck with that one. You will need every drop of luck this worlds got.” He winks and takes off to his front door. 

Darci’s POV 

My eyelids fluttered open as my alarm sounded, telling me it was 8:30 already. Yuck. I internally cursed myself for not shutting my black-out curtains last night, but the fresh air did feel amazing. The sun’s shining rays in my face, not so much. I rolled out of bed, dragging myself to the closet to throw om a simple pair of blue skinny jeans, knee high burgundy boots, and a matching burgundy sweater. I looked at myself in the mirror before brushing my teeth, washing my face, and detangling my curls. I didn’t throw on any makeup or jewelry, I was sure Clara and Maria would doll me up later. Vyra was anxious today, so I headed downstairs for a birthday breakfast fit for a queen. 

“Good morning my little Darcietta! Oh, I can’t believe you’re 18 today!” My mother screeched through tear-filled eyes. 

“Morning, Mama. It’s just another day, don’t worry about it.” I responded casually. 

She only smiled in response, which was definitely off character. This woman never stops talking.  

After eating breakfast with the family, Clara and Maria arrived on cue at 10 o’clock sharp. We hopped in Maria’s XL cab truck, with 3 seats across the front and back – and an enclosed cab in case we went on a spree. We went to the closest mall, about 40 minutes away from our territory. We spent at least 2 and a half hours shopping, and finally settled on outfits for the big night. For the life of me, I couldn’t stop fretting over today, what if I do meet my mate? I hope whoever he is, he wants me as bad as I want him. It would crush me to be rejected. The girls and I stopped for Chinese on the way home, giggling and laughing all the while. I tried my best to hide my anxiety. We arrived back to Black Brook and the twins instantly dragged me to the main house, into Maria’s room to get ready. 

Maria and Clara both wore neutral shades for makeup with dark pouty lips. Maria wore an emerald green dress that highlighted her large bustline, and complimented her eyes. It had an open back, plunging neckline, and swept the floor as she walked. That girl was her mother’s twin through and through. Clara also looked like her twin and mother, but she bares her father’s eyes. She wore a dress the same exact style as Maria’s, but it was a cheery yellow and had a diamond beaded neckline. Clara wore all her hair down pin-straight while Maria did a half-up/half-down do in loose waves.  

My hair didn’t need much work, it was naturally curly so Maria only put curls in here and there for aesthetic perfection, and some product to hold everything together. Clara focused intently on my face, starting with shimmery smokey eyes and fiercely winged eyeliner. It was bold, but extremely clean and not over the top which I appreciated. My eyes looked even brighter with this look, which I didn’t think was possible. She started pouring moisturizer, concealers, foundations, contour creams, and something called a pore minimizer all over my face. Then, she proceeded to beat my face with a giant brush covered in something she called translucent powder. I did my makeup every day, but I definitely did not go to this extreme. This girl is pro-status. She added blush and highlight to my cheeks, and painted my lips a deep red color. When she was satisfied with her work, she sprayed something all over my face and proceeded to fan me while whispering “Don't you dare move a muscle.” I’m trying very hard not to burst out laughing at how serious she is about this.   

Finally, she smiled at Maria and I, turning the barstool I was sitting on so I could face the mirror. My jaw DROPPED. She put so much product on my face, but it didn’t look cakey or stringy. It looked like it was my real skin, except literally flawless. My eyes shimmered gorgeously. I couldn’t wait to see pictures that will be taken later, drenched in the setting sun. My pearly white smile looked dangerous with such a daring red framing them. Every curl is in perfect ringlet shape, not a single one out of place. To say I’m impressed would be an understatement. 

“I cannot even express how thankful I am to have you two in my life. I seriously don’t even know what I’d do without you.” I stated genuinely. 

“We’re not even finished yet, you still need to put your dress on!” Maria exclaims. 

“It’s 5:30, let’s move it!” Clara chimes in. 

“Holy s**t! Already?! Guys.. what if my mate is out there? I’m so nervous right now. What if he doesn’t want me?!” The words came tumbling from my mouth before I could even think to keep it shut. I’m feeling so anxious I can’t even control myself. Both of the girls blinked at me holding straight faces. They glanced at one another before bursting out in a fit of giggles. 

“Darci, that’s the best part about coming of age! Knowing you’ll meet someone that was literally made to be your other half, gifted to each other by the Moon Goddess to make them complete! Falling madly in love! Eeeeeeeee!” Clara squealed. 

“Whether it’s tonight or 20 years from now, I think it’s something to look forward to. How could anyone reject you Miss Darcietta Charmane Moon?” Maria waggles her eyebrows at me. 

“She’s right though, you’re absolutely gorgeous, intellectual, sweet, powerful, and good-natured. You’re literally regal, and the most perfect mate a guy could ask for!” Clara adds. 

“Don’t forget stubborn, sleepy, and just a little bit weird.” I sarcastically remarked. 

The twins helped me into my dress, as it was very form-fitting. It clung to every curve of my body and sparkled dark greys and blues throughout. It looked like a galaxy painted with glimmering stars. It had a sweet-heart neckline that actually looked amazing with the help of this gorgeous white-lace push-up bra and panty set we picked out earlier today. My backside looked fabulous as always, but what really struck me was the way it slimmed my legs and made me look so womanly. The dress hung to the floor with a slit all the way up one side, exposing part of my beautiful undies. I stepped into a pair of bright white heels, and looked to my best friends for approval. They both nodded and hugged me, then ran out of the room to go take their places downstairs with our pack. I inhaled slowly, exhaled quickly.  

I pull a small crystal pendant that hung on a dainty gold chain out of my purse, wrapping it around my neck and clasping it shut. This is one I was given when I was very young, and I’ve always clung to it more than any others in my collection. My mother would only tell me it was given to me by a loved one. With one final look in the mirror, I turn around to exit the bedroom and make my entrance down the grand staircase, as it is a custom in our pack when one of the 4 families has a member come of age. I look down from the top of the stairs to see thousands of pack members lining every area, with more flooding out to the yard. I tend to forget how big we are until we’re all gathered together. I begin to descend the stairs when everyone simultaneously ceases their conversations, all staring directly at me. Some gawk, some stare, a few she-wolves glare. I smile in victory, feeling absolutely gorgeous. I greet my family at the bottom, and begin leading everyone outside. Jason approaches me to say “Happy Birthday!” I smile and thank him, but instantly realize he’s not my mate. 

Bummer. Vyra pouts in my head. 

Same, girl, same. I laugh.