The Moonlight Rejection

The sun had just begun to set over the small town on Lunar creek, casting a warm orange glow over the bustling trees. The air was alive with the sound of laughter and music, as the annual Harvest moon festival was in full swing. Aria, a 22 year old werewolf, danced through the crowds, her long brown hair bouncing behind her. She was laughing and spinning to the rhythm of the music, feeling carefree and alive. As she swirled past a small stall selling roasted meats, Aria's eyes met those of Keal, the 25 year old future alpha of Lunar Creek Pack. Kael's piercing blue eyes seemed to bore into Aria's very soul, and she felt a shiver run down her spine. Aria's heart skipped a beat as he smiled at her. “Keal” she whispered, smiling sweetly at him. She felt a flutter on her chest and her senses went on high alert. It was as if the entire festival had melted away, leaving only the two of them, locked in a silent understanding. Without thinking, Aria made her way through the crowds, her feet carrying her towards Keal as if drawn by an unseen force, as she reaches his side, Kael turned to her, his eyes burning with intensity. “ Dance with me” he whispered, his voice low and husky. Aria's heart soared as she nodded and Kael swept her into his arms, spinning her into the midst of the dancing crowd. “You dance beautifully” he admired. Aria chucked. “Thanks Keal” she replied, her cheeks flushed with redness. As the music reached a crescendo, Kael spun Aria around, pulling her close as they swayed to the final notes of the song. As the music ended, Kael's eyes locked into Aria's, and for a moment they just stared at each other. The sound of applause and cheering broke the spell, and Aria felt her face grow hot as she realised they were the center of attraction. Kael smiled and bowed, pulling Aria down with him as they took a triumphant bow together. As they stood up Aria's father, Steve, who was a member of the council approached them, a broad smile on his face. “Well done, Kael” he said, clapping Keal on the back. “You've certainly got the moves” Kael grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “Thanks, Steve. I think Aria was the one who stole the show though.” “Oh, c’mon Kael” she laughed. Steve turned to her, his eyes shining with pride. “Indeed she did.” he said pulling Aria into a warm hug. “I'm so proud of you kiddo.” As Aria hugged her father back, she couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness and contentment. This was what she loved about The Harvest Moon Festival, the sense of community and connection it came with. She sighed her mother, Naomi, waving from the crowd, she waved back beaming with smiles. “Alright, I'll let you two have your moment before the main event, you have a good time” “Okay, bye Dad” she waved blowing kisses as he caught them on the air and she laughed. As they walked into the crowd, they were stopped by well wishers who congratulated them and complimented Aria on her dancing skills. She was an elegant dancer and her beauty caught the eyes of many honourable men, too bad Kael already had his claim on her. As they walked, Kael kept possessive arm around Aria's shoulders, pulling her close to his side, and she couldn't help but lean into him. Feeling a sense of safety and protection in his presence. Cassie stood amongst her friends who were all laughing at some jokes, she couldn't help but drift her attention to Kael's, watching as Aria leaned on him. A pang of jealousy arose within her, suddenly Kael caught her glance, his eyes mixed with emotions. “Cassie!” Aria called, waving her hands on the air. “Where the hell have you been girl?, I've been looking all over for you” Aria said approaching with Kael. “I've been looking for you too not until I found you on the dancefloor with Kael, that was beautiful” she said her gaze moving over to Kael who only responds with a smile. Just as Aria was about to utter a word, a loud noise sounded and it came from the Big Drums. It was time for the main event and everyone started to retreat back to the square. “We'll catch up later Cassie before Kael runs late” “Alright I'll be with you shortly” Cassie says, stealing a glance from Kael's before they leave. Kael stood before the council, his head high above everyone as he stared into the piercing eyes of everyone. The council chamber was dimly lit, the only sound was the soft crackling of the fire that burned in the hearth. “Keal, son of Atlas,” said Elara, the council's eldest member, her voice low and solemn. “ You have been chosen to succeed your late father as the leader of the Lunar Creek. You have shown strength, courage and wisdom beyond your years.” Kael felt a surge of pride and gratitude as he bowed his head in acceptance. “But with leadership comes a great responsibility,” Elara continued. “And one of the most important decisions you will make as a leader is the choice of your mate” Kael's heart skipped as he thought of Cassie, and there stood the best friends, their hands locked together. “I have already chosen my mate,” Kael said, his voice firm and confident. “And who might that be?” Elara asked. Kael took a deep breath before answering. “Aria, daughter of Steve.” Everyone began to cheer as Aria's face lit up with a wide smile, she had always dreamt of this day and finally, finally someone got to choose her. Her first and ever love, Kael. As the cheer died off, Aria was called upon. She held hands with Kael smiles all over her face, her father looked on her with so much pride, he had always been proud of his day but this day was the most of all. Unbeknownst to Aria, she was about waking up to her worst nightmare. As she looked back on the crowd, her eyes in search of Cassie who had suddenly disappeared. She wondered where Cassie must have wandered off to at such important hour of her life.