FOUR MONTHS LATER

“Oh, thank goodness. She’s waking up,” a low voice whispered.

Ashleigh's eyes blinked open to an unfamiliar ceiling, revealing two faces peering over her like vultures surveying a fresh corpse.

Her breaths came in shallowly, a strange wave of energy coursing through her, and at that moment, a heavy wind blew as if in protest with her rebirth.

The middle-aged couple shared a glance before helping her sit up on the bed she rested in.

“How are you feeling, my dear?” The woman asked.

Ashleigh winced, scanning her surroundings. “W-Where am I? Who… who are you people?”

Every inch of her body felt alive, as though her real self had been asleep for eons and was finally awakened.

The man explained. “I’m Odin, and she's my wife, Linnea. We are normal members of Sunshield Pack. We found you naked and unconscious in our backyard early this morning. You must have fainted. We couldn't just leave you there, so we brought you inside.”

The small room was clean, containing just a single bed, nightstand, wardrobe, wooden dresser, and a chair.

Afternoon sun spilled from the single window draped with thin, faded curtains.

“What’s your name?” Linnea inquired. “Tell us, dear, what happened to you?”

Ashleigh's hand hurriedly moved to her neck, where the silver blade should have left a scar. Surprisingly, there was none.

She recalled being killed. A painful memory she wished could be erased. “I-I don't know,” she lied, swallowing hard, her face carefully blank.

Linnea looked at her husband. The girl was probably in shock.

“It’s okay dear… you don't have to remember right now.” She reached for the wooden jug and tin cup on the nightstand, and poured her some water. “Here you go. You must be thirsty.”

Ashleigh took the extended cup and downed its content in a few gulps. “Thank you.”

“More?”

She shook her head.

“Can we call you Ava?” Linnea asked, running her hand over Ashleigh's long gray hair. “It was our daughter’s name.”

“Where is she?”

“She… she passed away last week. This used to be her room.”

“I’m so sorry,” Ashleigh apologized, feeling bad.

“It’s fine,” Odin sighed. “You’re our second chance.”

Speaking of ‘second chances’, Ashleigh pushed the sheets aside, and stood up, feeling an irresistible pull toward the dresser.

She paused, staring back at the comely young woman in the mirror.

She had long, soft gray hair that flowed past her shoulders, a pair of orange eyes, pale skin and a sexy body.

It was her, yet she looked so different. Her ‘ugly’ features, according to Hans, were now refined. Almost ethereal. In essence, the new Ava was far more beautiful than Ashleigh.

“The dress was Ava's,” Odin said. “We’re glad it’s your perfect fit.”

Linnea had dressed her in a simple, floral sundress that reached her ankles. “No need to worry,” she added, holding Ashleigh’s arms from behind. “You can wear all her clothes while you stay here. Luckily, we didn't burn them as planned.”

The couple thought she was admiring the apparel.

“Ava,” Ashleigh mouthed, tasting the name on her tongue. It felt new, somewhat mysterious and unburdened.

She smiled maliciously.

RIP to the weak, barren Omega; now, she was someone new—someone Selene, the Moon Goddess, for whatever reason, had decided to give a second chance at life.

She was AVA, and the world had no idea what was coming.

Her eyes met the door at a corner of the room.

“That’s the bathroom,” Linnea supplied, noticing her gaze. “You’re most welcome to use it. There's an unused towel and hairnet in the wardrobe. Also, don't hesitate to ask for anything else.”

“Thanks. I won't.”

Odin clapped his hands together, his expression softening. “I’ll let you ladies get along while I go check on the… um… garden.”

He gave Linnea a loving squeeze on her shoulder and nodded at Ava before slipping out.

As soon as Odin left, Ava turned around to face her newfound mother. “What is it like here? I-I can't remember anything.”

A flicker of concern crossed Linnea's face as they sat back on the bed. “You don't remember anything about our Pack? Not even a little?”

Of course Ava didn't. She hadn't belonged here.

“No.”

“Sunshield is one of the strongest and oldest Packs in the region. We are known for our prosperity and stable borders. Our leader is the reputable Alpha Crane. He keeps things running smoothly and rarely tolerates any trouble.”

She paused, her eyes narrowing with curiosity. “What do you remember, dear? Even a little piece? Something clearly happened to you before we found you. How did you end up… naked in our backyard?”

Ava forced a bewildered smile, shaking her head. “I’m afraid I have no idea.”

“Don’t you think we should visit the healer?”

“No. There’s no need for that.”

“Don’t you want to get your memory back?”

“No, I'm fine. Hopefully, I eventually will.”

“You sure?”

She nodded. “Yeah.”

Linnea sighed, her innate kindness winning over her doubts. “You must be famished,” she continued, placing a hand on Ava's arm. “Why don't you go freshen up and join us for lunch?”

“Sure.”

“I just finished preparing Odin's favorite. Venison soup, paired with toasted, cheesy sourdough, and a glass of rich tomato juice.”

“Sounds delicious,” Ava said, her stomach rumbling in agreement.

Linnea chuckled. “I know, right? Trust me, you are going love it. A hundred percent.”

“Well, I better hurry before it gets cold.”

“Yeah. Um, I’ll go now,” Linnea said, placing a kiss on her forehead before leaving.

Ava laid back in bed.

How long had passed since her demise?

She stared at the ceiling, suddenly remembering Giselle—her little sister. Moreover, the only family she had left.

Was she safe?

Why didn't she show up during her execution?

What if Hans had done something terrible to her? Even worse, locked her away till she died of lack.

Could he have gotten a second chance Luna?

The only way to find out would entail going back there, but how?

“Who was that no-good I saw you sneak out with last night? Did you really think I wouldn't find out? I mean, what the fuck does she offer that I haven't?” Giselle nagged as Hans got ready for another night of misconduct. “I’m talking to you.”

“It seems you're forgetting who I am, missy. I can and will do whatever I so damn please. Now, leave my room; I'm not in the mood for your drama.”

“Oh please, why aren't I surprised? For crying out loud, when will you ever be in the mood, Hans? Why are you doing this to us… to me? At least for once, just think about your unborn cub!”

“What did you just say?” He growled. His hand shot out, grabbing her throat violently. “Didn’t I warn you never to speak of that ‘thing’ you’re carrying, huh? What if someone heard you? Who would you say is responsible?”

Her face became pale as he squeezed just enough to make breathing difficult.

“What are you doing? Let go, you're suffocating me,” she managed to say, wrestling his grip.

He was no longer the loving master she knew four months ago. He had become more callous, unapologetically so.

“Who do you think you are? Luna? What gives you the nerve to talk to me as you like?” He carried on, slamming her against the wall. “Answer me!”

“I-I’m sorry, okay? Please, I’m sorry.”

He held on for a few seconds before releasing her. “If I knew you'd become a pain in the ass, just like your wretched sister, I would have ended you too as well. Consider this a warning. You won't be so lucky if there’ll ever be a next time.”

He walked out of the room, leaving Giselle gasping for air. She slid to the ground, hot tears stinging her eyes

This wasn't the plan. Clearly, she now meant nothing to him. Just one of his numerous playthings, and everytime she brought up the discussion about making her Luna, he would either rebuke or hit her.

That aside, the main problem was what she would explain to everyone once the pregnancy started to manifest.

People were already speculating and Rasmud had become so sure something was going on between them. She could tell from the way he looked at her whenever she was heading to or leaving Hans’s bedroom.

“No, no, no,” she sobbed, her throat feeling sore from his hold.

Hans opened the door, about to enter the driver's seat of his Jeep. A luring wench settled in the front passenger seat, wearing a hood, as he always preferred.

“Hans,” Rasmud called out, jogging toward him. “Where are you going unguarded?” He asked, peering at the young lady who turned her face away. “Who is she?”

“You dare quiz me? How does that concern you? Do I look like a child?”

“That’s not what I meant. Why don't you let me come with you?”

Hans scoffed, shaking his head. “It seems I've been too lenient of late. Everyone keeps forgetting their place.”

“I’m just saying. No offense.”

“Mind your business Rasmud, and I'll mind mine. This is your final warning.”

Hans got in, and swerved away.

Meanwhile, Giselle returned to her quarters. She lay pitiful on the bed, feeling foolish for ever believing his empty promises.

Hans was an asshole, and she hated being an Omega. She always admired Charis, the Gamma female who had it all: beauty, power, money, and the promise of a good future.

As if that weren't enough, Charis was a darling, loved and adored by everyone. She didn't have to do too much to be heard or noticed, while, being an Omega meant having the weakest wolf, little or no connection to Pack magic and living in the poorest conditions unless through the mate bond with an authority figure.

A knock came from the door, pulling her out of her reverie.

“Come in,” she answered, putting up composure.

It was Rasmud.

“What do you want?” She asked disapprovingly. “Why are you here?”

“Relax, I’m just checking in. Are you okay?”

She gazed at him, confusion etched on every line of her face.“I don't know what you're talking about?”

He sucked his teeth, stepping further into the room. “Try something more… um… new fashioned.”

“W-what do you mean?”

“Drop the pretense, Giselle; I know what goes on between you and the Alpha. The doors in this mansion aren't soundproof, you know.”

She hung her head low. “Why do you even care?”

“Don’t tell me you're one of those ding-a-lings who believe I'm hard-boiled. By the way, what were you thinking?”

“If you’re only here to make fun of me, I advise you leave.”

“Make fun of you? Nah. Why would I? Or…” He crossed his arms, wearing a mock smile. “Are you ashamed?”

Giselle sprung up, her expression replaced with a scowl. “You are so full of shit, Rasmud.”

“Beta,” he corrected.

“I don't care! In fact, you are so judgmental about everyone but yourself. What makes you feel you're better than me? Yes, I'm ashamed. Take a picture!”

“Hey, I wouldn't raise my voice if I were you.”

“Well, in case you had no idea, I am not scared of someone who runs errands for the Alpha. You are as much as a nobody as I am.”

The words hit him like a physical blow.

“How dare you?” Rasmud muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. He dropped his arms, glaring at her with dark squinted eyes.

“Truth hurts,” she sighed, flipping her hair backward.

His countenance spoke louder than words, and she felt fulfilled, having given him a taste of his own medicine.

No doubt, Giselle had more guts than Ashleigh.

“You liked my sister, didn't you?” She continued, observing him with a clinical interest. “I’m not blind. I saw the way you stole glances at her, and if I'm not mistaken, isn't that like a… taboo? Craving the Alpha's Luna.”

“She was a better person than you’d ever be.” Rasmud justified.

“Guess I'm not the only one with a shocking revelation at the end of the day. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to catch some sleep.”

Silence.

Ava sat at the table with Odin and Linnea, eating breakfast.

With each passing day, she felt more comfortable.

Odin looked at Linnea. “Have you told her about the upcoming Blue Moon Festival?”

“Ah, thanks for the reminder,” she said, wiping her mouth with a napkin. “Ava darling, you should attend.”

Ava had heard snippets about the festival in her past life but never got to attend. “What is it about?” She asked, intrigued.

“How do I explain this, um… it’s a long-standing allnight extravaganza where every unmated werewolf gathers to get lucky. In other words, it’s more like a sacred matchmaking service.”

“That’s how I met her,” Odin added with a smile, taking Linnea's hand in his.

Ava smiled back. “Well, when is it?”

“If I'm not mistaken, I think in four weeks’ time. It happens once every two years. I wouldn't love for you to miss such an opportunity.” Linnea replied.

“Maybe you could meet someone special, and finally have somewhere to visit. It's not healthy staying indoors all day, especially since we still don't know what happened to you,” Odin sighed, and Ava looked down.

Every night, she wondered what backstory would make sense, and didn't know whether to tell them the truth or not. They ought to ask questions or be in doubt.

“I’m sorry but I don't buy the idea,” she said, changing the topic. “When Selene feels the time is right, I'll meet someone special.”

Linnea looked confused. “What’s wrong, dear? A minute ago you sounded so thrilled.”

“Such festivals are usually… exclusive. You and Odin have already done so much for me, considering the fact that I'm just a stranger. I don't just want to bother you with my needs.”

“What do you mean? Don't ever think like that. We’re more than happy to help.”

“Yes, dear,” Odin concurred.

“I know you're concerned about what to wear for the festival but don't worry, I've got you covered. Odin and I used to work at the Pack mansion. Luna's cousin, Sage, was always so fond of me. I’m sure she can lend you a thing or two from her wardrobe. Also, I'm sure you two will get along just fine. She's a very sweet girl.” Linnea continued, savoring a morsel of food. “So, what do you say?”

“Can I think about it?”

“Why not? You've still got enough time.”

“Lest I forget, the Blue Moon Festival also serves as an avenue to meet a couple big names from other Packs far and beyond. We won't want our daughter to show up any less, right Lin?”

“Mhm.”

Ava froze. Did he just call her daughter? Ashleigh's parents died when she was only fifteen years old; it had been so long since anybody addressed her with that word.

She smiled, deeply grateful to the Moon Goddess, and they ate quietly for the next few minutes.

“Sage,” Ava pronounced. “Does she have a mate?”

“Unfortunately, she didn't get lucky at the last festival. I pray this year favors her.”

“But on the bright side,” Odin cheered. “They can go together.”

Linnea nodded. “Yeah.”

“Where is the festival going to be held?”

“The last festival was held here. This year, I hear it's gonna be at the grand hall of the Silverwood Pack.”

Ava choked on her food.

“Are you okay?” Linnea asked, as Odin filled her glass with water. “Here. Drink.”

Ava gulped down, taking her mind back. Did she hear right?

“I’m sorry, did I say something?” Linnea asked.

“No, it's not your fault. I rushed a spoonful.”

“Careful,” Odin said, handing her a napkin.

No doubt, they loved her unconditionally. In fact, they saw her as a blessing, a replacement from the Goddess for taking away their only child.

“What do you know about Silverwood?” Ava inquired, wearing a serious expression.

“Not much. Their Alpha and ours are best of friends. They are also the smallest in the region. They, um…” Odin explained.

“Can you tell me about their Luna?”

“They don't have one. Why do you ask?”

“I heard some young girls talk about her at the grocery store earlier today.”

“It doesn't matter.” Linnea shoved aside.

“Please, I insist. What do you know about her?”

Linnea sighed hesitantly. “It’s a very horrible thing to—”

“She was killed,” Odin choked out, cutting her off. “For the past four months, her history has been on everyone's tongue.”

“Oh dear,” Linnea rolled her eyes.

“What was her name, and why was she killed?” Ava managed to ask, clenching her hands.

She knew the answers to her questions but needed to hear what everyone believed, or rather, what everyone thought of her.

“Her name was, um… Ashleigh. Ashleigh Conrad.”

Linnea leaned closer, whispering to Odin. “Why did you mention her name? People say it brings bad luck.”

“No, it doesn't!” Ava objected, feeling a new kind of anger brew in her.

Linnea scoffed. “How would you know?”

“She was inhumane. A selfish and heartless witch who tried to sell her Pack to rogues. A family who lived near their borders claimed to have seen her there almost every night, meeting with them. Everyone loved her so much. Her Alpha loved her more than life itself but what did she do? Betrayed his trust. Not just his, she betrayed all their trusts,” Odin continued. “Thank Goddess, they gave her a befitting death. Who knows what would have become of Silverwood by now?”

Ava slammed her fists on the table, having run out of patience. “That’s not true!” She yelled and stood up abruptly, her chair scraping against the floor..

The couple paused, sharing a glance, and Ava ran upstairs, her breath shaky.

“I told you not to mention that cursed name but you never listen to me,” Linnea fussed. “Ava! Ava!! Ava, what's wrong?!” She called out, going after her.

“Leave her be,” Odin said calmly. “I can't help but feel she's hiding something from us.”

“Why do you say so?”

“Last night, I walked past her room and I heard her cry. It wasn't a sob. It sounded like she was deeply hurt.”

“Oh my! I’ve heard it too.”

“Eat. You'll talk to her later.”