Crowned by Fate

Chapter 2: The Visiting Alpha

The pack buzzed with excitement. A visiting alpha had arrived. Tall, broad-shouldered, commanding—Kael of Shadowfang Pack walked into the courtyard. Every wolf sensed his dominance, even Elara. Something about him unsettled her.

She didn’t know why he had come, but she had a feeling it wouldn’t be good for her.

Her heart seized. Lunaris stirred. Mate. But I sense he will reject you. Prepare for more pain.

She looked up—Kael was staring at her. Her sister Selene appeared beside her, smirking. “Look who’s finally getting attention,” she whispered. “Too bad he’s meant for me.”

Kael’s eyes swept over the pack, settling on her. There is no way the goddess has given her to me as a gift. No way she is any gift. I can’t have a weak wolf as my mate. Luckily, I already have a chosen one.

Without warning, he yelled out, “I, Kael Shadow of Shadowfang Pack, reject you, Elara Silverfang of Silverfang Pack!”

Lunaris growled softly, warning her. Pain surged through her chest. Her body trembled. Some wolves might not survive this public rejection, but she forced herself to stand.

“I, Elara Silverfang of Silverfang Pack, accept your rejection, Kael Shadow of Shadowfang Pack,” she said, trembling yet firm.

Laughter erupted. Selene and her friends sneered. Kael smirked and walked away, immediately announcing his engagement to Selene. Elara forced herself to straighten, swallow the tears, and walk away.

Alone in her basement bedroom later, she packed her laptop, books, and essentials. She snuck out the back door and shifted. Lunaris nudged a small bag in her jaws, guiding her to the hidden car while bypassing patrol guards.

Tonight, whispered Lunaris. Tonight, we leave. Finally.