The Moon Goddess’ Cursed Lovers

The compound buzzed with activity as I raced through the familiar grounds, trying to keep up with the chaos of preparations for the alpha ceremony. Decorations were strewn everywhere, and I darted between hanging garlands and stringing up lanterns, my hands working automatically while my mind spun in a whirlwind of tasks. The pack was abuzz with excitement, their chatter and laughter echoing through the crisp evening air. I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of frustration as I shuffled between the guest house and the main hall. Our sister pack was arriving soon, and I was tasked with making up the guest rooms to ensure they were comfortable. The scent of freshly baked bread and roasted meats filled the air as I entered the kitchen, where the clamor of pots and pans was a constant symphony of noise. The massive spread of food I was preparing seemed never-ending, and I worked tirelessly, barely noticing the sweat trickling down my back. As I set a tray of pastries on the counter, I noticed Ivy Pierce, my best friend, moving between the stove and the sink with practiced ease. I caught her eye and managed a weary smile. “Hey, Ivy,” I called out, trying to make my voice heard over the din. “I didn’t know you were on kitchen duty too.” She grinned back, her face flushed with effort. “Yeah, thought I’d lend a hand. Figured you could use some help, especially with everyone else asking for favors.” I laughed softly, feeling a bit of relief at her presence. “You’re not wrong. It seems like every time I turn around, someone’s got a new task for me. I’m starting to think I’m everyone’s personal assistant today.” Ivy shook her head, stirring a pot of stew. “You’re too nice to say no, that’s the problem. I swear, if you told people you couldn’t help, they’d be lost.” I rolled my eyes but couldn’t suppress a smile. “I guess it’s just easier to go along with it. Besides, I’d rather stay busy than just sit around.” We fell into a comfortable silence, working side by side. I glanced around the kitchen, the aroma of the feast mingling with the clatter of dishes. It struck me again how everyone seemed so wrapped up in the ceremony preparations that they had completely forgotten it was my birthday too. Ivy seemed to sense my change in mood and bounced on the balls of her feet, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Hey, Faye, did you know that tomorrow night, you might find your mate? How amazing would that be?” I raised an eyebrow, curious about her sudden burst of enthusiasm. “Yeah, maybe. It’s hard to think about that right now with everything going on.” “Oh, come on!” Ivy said, practically bouncing with excitement. “Just imagine! The ceremony is such a huge event. I’ve read about so many amazing warriors who’ve found their mates during alpha ceremonies. Like, remember Caleb Stormrider? He was this legendary warrior who found his mate during his own alpha ceremony, and it was like a fairytale come true!” I chuckled, amused by her enthusiasm. “I’ve heard stories. They always sound so dramatic.” “And then there’s Aric Blackthorn!” Ivy continued, her eyes wide. “He was known for his fierce battles and found his mate in the middle of a grand ceremony. Their bond was so strong that it became a symbol of hope for the entire pack.” I smiled, warmed by her excitement. “It’s sweet of you to be so optimistic about it.” Ivy nodded vigorously. “Of course! Who knows? Tomorrow night could be the start of something incredible for you. And don’t forget, even if everyone’s forgotten your birthday, we’ll make sure it’s special in our own way.” As we chatted, Ryder strolled into the kitchen, his presence commanding immediate attention. He grabbed a sandwich from the counter without a word and started to walk out. Ivy shot him a playful glare. “Hey, Ryder, save some food for the rest of us!” He flashed a grin over his shoulder and winked. “Just needed a quick snack. Thanks, Ivy.” As Ryder left, I felt a pang of nostalgia and sadness. I watched him walk away, his carefree demeanor contrasting sharply with the memories I had of him. We’d spent countless hours together, sharing secrets and laughter. But once he reached eighteen, everything changed. He began to shut me out, his new responsibilities and independence creating a chasm between us that seemed impossible to bridge. Ivy noticed the change in my expression and put a comforting hand on my shoulder. “You okay?” I sighed, looking down at the kitchen counter. “Yeah, just… remembering how things used to be. Ryder and I were really close when I was younger. Once he turned eighteen, he started pulling away, and it’s been hard ever since.” Ivy gave my shoulder a reassuring squeeze. “It’s tough when things change like that. But remember, you’ve got people who care about you, and I’m sure Ryder still does, even if he doesn’t show it.” I nodded, taking a deep breath. “I know. Thanks, Ivy. I just hope that maybe, with all that’s happening, we can find a way to reconnect.” As we continued preparing the feast, a familiar voice cut through the noise of the kitchen. “Oh, look at you two, working away like busy little bees.” I turned to see Lyra Cole standing in the doorway, her posture exuding both confidence and a hint of annoyance. Lyra had been Ryder’s former girlfriend, and the tension between them was still palpable. She sauntered into the kitchen, her gaze fixed on Ryder’s retreating figure. “I’m going to win Ryder back,” Lyra declared, her voice carrying a mix of determination and menace. “He’s about to become alpha, and I’m going to make sure he remembers what he’s missing.” Ivy raised an eyebrow, her demeanor shifting to one of cautious curiosity. “You think Ryder will want that?” Lyra’s eyes narrowed as she fixed her gaze on us. “Oh, he will. And if either of you get in my way or cause trouble during the ceremony tomorrow, you’ll regret it.” Her threat was clear, and the chill in her voice made it evident that she wasn’t just talking. I felt a shiver run down my spine, but I tried to maintain my composure. “We’ll be on our best behavior,” I said evenly, though my heart raced with apprehension. Lyra smirked, seemingly satisfied with our response. “Good. I expect nothing less.” As she left, Ivy and I exchanged uneasy glances. The prospect of dealing with Lyra’s schemes added another layer of stress to an already overwhelming day. I took a deep breath, trying to focus on the tasks at hand while hoping that, despite the challenges, tomorrow’s ceremony might bring some clarity and perhaps even a chance for reconciliation with Ryder.