No More The Alpha's Backup Girl

Chapter 4

Binding morning came in grey. The Ashford estate was up before dawn. Everyone getting ready for Luna's rite—my mother picking out her ceremonial bracelets, my father inspecting the caravan, Damon proofing Luna's speech.

I came downstairs already dressed. "I'm skipping the rite. The binding church needs me there."

Damon didn't look up. He was fastening Luna's silver cuffs. "Fine. Handle the guests. We'll come once her ceremony's done."

I carried one small bag to the church entrance. Nobody walked me to the carriage. The driver asked, "Should I wait for Alpha Blackthorn's convoy?"

I looked at the pale sky. "No. He's got more important things."

The church's bridal chamber smelled of crushed moon-flowers and expensive oil. I dressed myself. Fastened my own veil. Walked into the great hall alone.

Blackthorn elders stared. Ashford cousins whispered. Northern pack lords traded looks. Every one of them knew the groom wasn't there. Some threw me pity. Some enjoyed the show. I stood under the moon-rose arch and met every last stare without flinching.

The hour came and went.

My pocket buzzed.

Damon: Luna's press coverage is huge. I'm going to be late. Smile for the guests. Be good.

I read it twice. Laughed under my breath. His parting gift to me: one more order to wait.

I slid the Blackthorn binding ring off my finger. The one that had marked me as his for a year. Set it down on the guest registry.

The steward whispered, "Miss Ashford, Alpha Blackthorn will—"

"No. He won't."

Before she could get another word out, the glass wall behind the arch blew inward. Chandeliers swung. Screams went up. Somebody shouted "Bladeclaw!"—the rebel pack that had been hunting Damon's bloodline for months.

I watched the white moon-roses scatter like torn paper. Then everything went white.