Angela's POV
I’m about to marry Willard Hughes.
This is my final day as Angela Kinsey. In less than three hours, I’ll be Angela Hughes.
“Your mom must be so proud of you, watching from heaven,” Darlene said, adjusting the hem of my wedding gown. “I can’t believe you look this beautiful.” She wiped away a tear from the corner of her eye.
“Darlene, you're going to make me cry, and I’ll have to redo my makeup,” I joked.
I stood on the small platform, gazing at myself in the full-length mirror. I was wearing a real wedding dress. It’s real. My dream was about to come true.
“Darlene, can you believe I’m marrying Willard? It’s unbelievable,” I turned to her. “I, Angela Kinsey, the poor girl from Cold Moon Pack, am about to become the future Beta’s legal wife. I feel like all my luck has led up to today.”
“Yes, yes,” Darlene rolled her eyes. “You’ve won the lottery, I know.”
“Oh, Darlene,” I pleaded, looking at her. “I know you don’t like Willard that much, but can’t you just show a little excitement? This is my dream coming true.”
“It’s not that I don’t like him,” Darlene sighed heavily. “It’s just... he’s the future Beta, and you’re wolfless. I’m just looking out for you, that’s all.”
“I love you,” I said, walking over to her and taking her hand. “You’re the best friend in the world, which is why you’re my maid of honor.”
“Because I’m your best friend, I worry,” she whispered. “We both know Willard has an unforgettable ex, Jennifer.”
“But they’ve been broken up for so long,” I hurried to explain. “I believe the Moon Goddess matched me with my true mate. Darlene. I’ll be happy, right?”
“You’re right,” Darlene smiled after a pause. “I always worry for no reason. Darling, you’ll be the happiest bride.”
“Thank you for your blessing,” I hugged her tightly.
There was a soft knock on the door. “Bride, the ceremony is about to begin.”
“It’s time to go, darling,” Darlene whispered. “Are you ready?”
My heart was racing, but I was ready to see Willard. “I’m ready.”
---
I stood at the altar, excitement flooding me for the day I had longed for my whole life.
“Willard Hughes, do you take Angela Kinsey to be your lawfully wedded wife, to love her till the last day of your life?” The priest’s words brought an excited smile to my lips.
“I do, Jennifer,” Willard said, holding up a twelve-carat diamond ring, gazing at me with deep affection.
The crowd erupted into whispers, as if the room had exploded.
What? Jennifer? His first love?
My mind went blank. I raised my hand and slapped him hard. His face turned to the side with the force of the blow.
“My name is Angela! Were you thinking of your ex when you were about to marry me?”
“Willard,” Jennifer suddenly rushed up to him from the spectator’s balcony. “Are you okay?”
I didn’t even know Jennifer had returned to Cold Moon Pack.
Willard shielded Jennifer behind him. “Angela, don’t hurt Jennifer. Things aren’t as you think. I... we...”
“Oh, spare me,” I spat, furious. “I only believe what I see.”