The Cursebound Mate

The Moon Has Spoken E . Peaceleigh The forest was quiet—too quiet for a night meant to change lives. Alina Rivers stood beneath the full moon, her heart thudding so hard she thought the entire pack could hear it. Around her, dozens of pack members gathered in a wide circle, their faces glowing in the moonlight, excitement in their eyes. The Mating Ceremony was sacred. It only happened once a year, under the brightest moon—and tonight was her turn. Her hands trembled as she clutched the simple white dress that clung to her like second skin. Her aunt had sewn it for her just days before, whispering, “You’ll look beautiful when your mate sees you.” But now, all she felt was fear. What if he wasn’t here? What if her mate wasn’t even from their pack? Or worse… what if he was, and he didn’t want her? “Alina,” whispered a voice beside her. It was Mira, her best friend. Her long chestnut hair shimmered under the moon. “You okay?” Alina nodded quickly. “Just… anxious.” Mira smiled knowingly. “Everyone is. But imagine—your fated mate. He’ll see you, feel the bond, and nothing else will matter.” If only it were that simple, Alina thought. She’d never felt like she belonged—not since her parents were killed by rogues when she was ten. Raised by a distant aunt and ignored by most of the pack, she was more of a shadow than a member. But the Moon Goddess was fair. Fate didn’t care about your past—only your soul. A hush fell across the clearing. The Elder stepped forward, his robe sweeping the forest floor as he raised his hands toward the sky. “Let the Moon choose.” One by one, names were called. A shimmering blue light floated through the crowd each time, drifting toward a young man or woman, binding fated pairs. Whispers of joy, laughter, even tears, echoed through the trees. Then, the light shifted. It hovered. And then— It shot straight toward Alina. She gasped as it entered her chest, a soft warmth spreading through her entire body. Her wolf stirred, howling from deep within her soul. Across the circle, another gasp echoed. The light burst from her chest… and slammed into Kael Blackthorn.