The atmosphere was cold, and everything around seemed to glitter in Norah’s eyes. It was her eighteenth birthday—the night she would have her first shift.

“I wish my parents were alive to witness this day,” she said softly to Isabella, who was stringing beads for her.

“I feel your pain, my dear,” Isabella replied gently. “But we cannot question the dead.”

“I can still remember the scent of my mother’s wolf. She was brave—known to be perfect.”

“Remember, today is your special day. And guess what?” Isabella teased, drawing Norah’s attention.

“What exactly?” Norah asked.

“After tonight, you’ll be ripe enough to find your mate,” Isabella said with a warm smile.

“I can’t wait to meet the wolf who’ll make me happy, complete me, and protect me,” Norah admitted dreamily.

“You know, Alpha Xavier will be here to witness your shifting. Pray he falls in love with you,” Isabella said teasingly.

“Hahahaha!” Norah laughed.

“Why are you laughing? Isn’t it funny, dear?” Isabella asked.

“Don’t you like Alpha Xavier—the most powerful and feared alpha?”

“Isabella, I wish my mate could be him,” Norah confessed sadly. “But I’m afraid he might not like me.”

“No one knows his heart since he claimed his ex broke it,” Isabella replied softly.

“Maybe he dated a ghost,” Norah joked.

“That’s funny, but I doubt it,” Isabella chuckled, returning to her work.

“Girl, hurry before it gets dark,” Isabella reminded her.

“There’s nothing left to prepare for except waiting for the moon to rise,” Norah said, rubbing her forehead. “Tell me the truth—are you secretly crushing on him?”

“I have my mate already waiting to do the needful,” Isabella answered with a grin.

“Still, I’m nervous. I don’t know what my first shift will feel like,” Norah admitted.

“I know your wolf,” Isabella said seriously. “And my instincts tell me Alpha Xavier might be your mate.”

“You sound like a seer,” Norah scoffed. “Anyway, I’m not worried.”

“Don’t be afraid—it’s not as painful as people say,” Isabella said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “I’m right here with you.”

Norah felt a strange warmth in her chest as her eyes met Isabella’s.

“Don’t worry, my darling. I’ll be there,” Isabella promised.

Later, they shared cake with friends. Midway through the laughter, Isabella frowned.

“I just remembered—Alpha Xavier hasn’t given you his gift yet. Maybe he doesn’t know,” she said.

“He usually gives gifts only to his pack members. I’m not one of them,” Norah replied. “If he did, it was out of kindness—he must’ve mistaken me for one.”

“Still, he seemed fascinated by your beauty,” Isabella teased.

“Um! I’m not his type,” Norah replied sharply.

Isabella blinked, hurt by her tone. “You know, I was disappointed too. After my shift and gift presentation, Alpha Xavier only shook my hand—not even a hug!”

“That’s why I won’t expect much from him,” Norah said.

“Well, my boyfriend loves me truly. I think he’s the best,” Isabella said proudly, while Norah drifted into thought.

“Norah,” Isabella called.

“Sorry, I was lost in thought,” Norah replied.

“What’s bothering you?”

“Never mind.”

Three hours later, they arrived at the moonlit field—a bright open space perfect for the ceremony.

“Go on,” Isabella encouraged.

Norah stepped into the clearing just as Alpha Xavier arrived.

“She’s beautiful, isn’t she?” he murmured to Sherman, his beta.

“An embodiment of beauty,” Sherman replied.

Alpha Xavier couldn’t take his eyes off Norah. She, however, looked away and whispered, “I must begin my first shift.”

As she stood beneath the moon, her bones cracked and reshaped. “Haaaa!” she screamed, her fingers turning to claws. Her body shifted painfully into that of a she-wolf.

“That’s her father’s wolf,” Isabella gasped. “Oh no—a weak she-wolf, like me.”

Moments later, Norah collapsed back into her human form. Tears filled her eyes. “I thought I’d be strong. Instead, I’m an outcast from a weak pack.”

Thunder rumbled suddenly, echoing across the field. Everyone turned in surprise—even Alpha Xavier.

“Congratulations,” he said, walking toward her.

“Thank you,” Norah smiled faintly, relieved the pain had ended.

“You’re welcome,” he said softly, still admiring her.

Back at the mansion, Alpha Xavier sat on the couch. “I need her as my mate,” he said firmly.

Sherman nearly choked on his drink. “Alpha, that’s Norah—from a weak pack. You have higher standards.”

“I don’t care,” Xavier said. “I love her.”

“This isn’t right. She doesn’t fit your rank,” Sherman protested.

“She’s the one I want for life,” Xavier insisted.

“I know Lynn broke your heart, but this isn’t the way—”

“I know what I want,” Alpha interrupted.

Meanwhile, Norah shared her excitement with Isabella.

“I think he likes me,” Norah said, her eyes sparkling.

“Really? From the look of things, maybe he does,” Isabella smiled. “But don’t get your hopes too high.”

“No, I’m certain. After the shift, I felt something special,” Norah said.

“Still, he’ll never take a mate from your pack,” Isabella warned.

They were still talking when Alpha Xavier’s car pulled up.

“That’s his car!” Isabella exclaimed.

“Did he forget something? Maybe the gift?” Norah wondered nervously.

“Let’s find out,” Isabella whispered.

Alpha Xavier stepped out, his presence commanding. His chiseled body and dazzling smile drew every she-wolf’s attention.

“He’s so handsome,” Isabella said under her breath.

Norah’s heart raced. This was the mate she’d dreamed of—strong, protective, perfect.

“Let me protect you,” Alpha said, stepping closer.

“What… what do you mean?” Norah stammered.

“I don’t care where you come from. I want you as my mate,” he said firmly.

Norah froze for a moment, then ran into her room and locked the door.

“Norah! Please open the door!” Isabella pleaded.

“Leave me alone!”

“No, Norah,” Alpha said. “I won’t leave until you hear me.”

“I can’t give my heart to someone who’ll break it. Please go,” she cried.

“Norah, my life means nothing without you,” he said with a deep sigh.

“I don’t trust your love. Are you mocking me because of my weak lineage?” she demanded.

“No, Norah. I love you, no matter your pack,” he swore.

She hesitated, her hand trembling on the doorknob.

“Give me a chance to prove it. I’ll never hurt you,” he pleaded.

“Come on, girl, give him a try,” Isabella urged softly.

Norah looked into his eyes. “Just a try,” she whispered.

Weeks later, rumors spread that Alpha Xavier had chosen his mate.

“What do you think of the gossip?” Isabella asked during a visit.

Norah crossed her legs, sipping her wine. “I don’t care what they say. I love him, and we’re a perfect match.”

“Well, you know your heart. Just be ready for his pack’s criticism,” Isabella warned.

“Alpha promised to handle that,” Norah replied.

“So, how’s your adventure with him going?”

“He’s made promises I believe he’ll keep,” Norah smiled.

“You’re lucky, Norah. Maybe it’s destiny.”

“Whatever it is,” Norah said, “nothing matters more than loving him.

It was a bright yet cold day when Alpha Xavier arrived at a shopping mall to pick up some items as a surprise gift for Norah, his Luna. Xavier was dressed charmingly, his chest slightly exposed, his presence drawing attention. However, he suddenly ran into his ex-girlfriend Lynn, who was also shopping.

“Hi!” Lynn greeted warmly, stretching her hand toward him. Xavier was shocked to see her again.

“Lynn,” Alpha Xavier exclaimed, visibly surprised. The emotion could easily be traced from his expression. Although she had cheated on him four years ago and later broke up out of remorse, her presence stirred something in him.

“You look amazing,” she smiled and hugged him again. Alpha felt his first love rekindle for a moment.

“Can we go for lunch?” he asked. This was the she-wolf he had once deeply loved. Lynn quickly wrapped up her shopping and joined Alpha in his car.

“I won’t stop pleading for your forgiveness, Alpha Xavier,” she said softly.

“Well, I forgave you long ago. Though you made me feel low and rejected,” Alpha replied, his tone calm but distant.

“It hasn’t been easy for me. I tried reaching you, but all was in vain,” she responded sadly.

Lynn’s eyes suddenly caught sight of a beautiful female photo on Alpha’s screen. “Oh, you’re mated to her?” she asked curiously.

“Not really, but she could become my official mate in a month,” he answered with a smile. “So, what do you do for a living now?” Alpha asked, noticing she wasn’t paying attention anymore.

“Lynn…” he called her.

“Yes, Alpha? What did you say?” she replied with a forced smile.

“You studied event management in school, right? I believe you’re one of the best.”

“Do you want to hire me?” she asked, her tone uncertain.

“That would be great if you could get involved. I can’t wait to see your decoration skills,” Alpha said cheerfully.

“Do you still love me?” she asked.

“I do, but my heart belongs to Norah,” he replied honestly.

“You still haven’t forgiven me, have you?” she pressed on.

“Lynn, I tried to win you back. I even wrote you a letter, which I know you received, but you never replied or showed any concern.”

“I was heartbroken and couldn’t bear the shame of betraying you,” she said bitterly. “It wasn’t my fault, Alpha Xavier — I was drunk, set up by Desmond.”

“I never truly believed you cheated on me,” Alpha admitted softly.

“Then can’t you change your mind and take me back as your mate?” she pleaded.

Alpha smiled faintly and shook his head, then looked up at her. “Let’s focus on making the event lively. Name your price, dear,” he said kindly.

Her face fell, clearly unhappy. “I’ll think about it,” she muttered.

“Alright, it’s a deal then,” Alpha concluded.

A few hours later, Alpha drove home, parked, and reflected on his meeting with Lynn.

“I wish I could give her a second chance,” he sighed. “I can see the pain and tears in her eyes. I loved her deeply and still remember our moments together.” He paused. “But I’m committed to Norah — my new she-wolf, even though she comes from a weak pack.” With that, he stepped out of the car.

Inside, Norah and her friend Isabella were busy working on Norah’s wedding dress when Xavier walked in.

“Hi, darling!” Norah ran to him and hugged him, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek.

“I’ve made a change to the event planner,” Xavier announced, surprising them.

Norah froze. “What do you mean? We already engaged Isabella, my best friend, for this.” She frowned.

Alpha loosened his tie and sat on the couch. “This new one is perfect,” he replied calmly.

“No, we can’t do that to Isabella,” Norah protested.

“Isabella, I appreciate your effort, but your services are no longer needed,” Alpha said, his tone firm.

“What could be my offense, Alpha Xavier?” Isabella asked, standing, thinking it was a joke.

“You can still attend the wedding and help in other areas, but not this one,” he paused, crossing his legs.

“Alpha, what changed? What did I do wrong?” Isabella pressed.

“I’ll talk to him later,” Norah whispered to her.

Later that night, during dinner, Norah broke the silence. “Do I know the new event planner?”

Xavier coughed, nearly choking. “I saw her photo on social media and heard a lot about her. She’s the best at what she does,” he said.

“That’s not a reason to disappoint Isabella — it’s unfair. She’s been doing great,” Norah insisted.

“My love, this is a bigger occasion, and I don’t want anything to go wrong. I need a professional touch,” Alpha replied.

Norah sighed and remained quiet. “Hmm…” she muttered softly, finishing her meal.

Alpha tried to recall if he had shown Norah Lynn’s picture. “No, I haven’t,” he thought. “This will be a good way to make Lynn a family friend.”

Meanwhile, back in her room, Lynn couldn’t stop crying. “He has left me for another. The pain that once broke my heart has returned,” she sobbed, staring into the mirror.

“My love for Xavier grew stronger the moment I saw him again,” she whispered. Then, recalling his offer, she wiped her tears. “This could be my chance to see him regularly,” she reasoned. “Yes, maybe I can win him back before his official mating with that weak-pack she-wolf.”

She straightened up and breathed deeply. “I’ll accept his offer,” she concluded with renewed determination.

THE EX ALPHA MATE BACK FOR REVENGE

Lynn accepts the request

In order for Lynn to give Alpha feedback, she demanded they meet at the beach. Alpha drove down to the beach; with his hands at his back, he kept watching around until Lynn walked close to him.

“Good afternoon, Alpha Xavier,” she drew his attention, smiling at him as well.

“You kept me waiting,” Alpha said to her.

“Sorry, the taxi developed a fault,” she answered. “I left my car behind though,” she added.

“Alright, come up to this side,” Alpha said as he took her to an empty table and requested a drink.

“I have decided to take the offer,” she told him after sipping from a glass of fresh juice.

“That’s nice, that makes it perfect,” Alpha smiled and paused, staring at her.

“Why the look?” she asked, pretending she wasn’t aware of what she was doing. Her breast was wide open, not well covered. Right there, Alpha reflected on the romantic times he had once spent with her.

“Xavier…” she called his attention.

“I’m here.”

“You like what you see?” she asked him.

“You still maintain the nice breast shape of yours — not just that, the skin as well,” Alpha felt seduced.

“Whatever you see in me are all yours,” she told him.

“I’m committed,” Alpha said.

“Yes, I am aware of it… from a weak pack,” she added. “She must be a weak she-wolf.”

“I have her covered,” Alpha said before Lynn interrupted.

Whereas Lynn had just felt offended and jealous, she held her peace.

“I would like to introduce you to her, so you both can continue where your best friend Isabella stopped.”

“Oh!” Lynn exclaimed. “I can’t wait to set eyes on her,” she said, though it was all to mock Norah.

---

A few minutes later, Alpha arrived home with Lynn. Norah, sighting her from the window, said to herself,

“That must be the event planner he spoke of.” She walked down to the sitting room.

When Lynn and Alpha got in, Lynn felt bitterness within her on seeing Norah, yet pretended to smile.

“Your mate has told me much about you,” Norah said to Lynn after Alpha introduced them.

Lynn looked around.

“What makes you think that you are perfect for an Alpha like Xavier?” Lynn asked, standing to mock Norah.

“I beg your pardon, what did you just say?” Norah replied.

“You have to forget about it, you bitch,” Lynn boldly said, calling Alpha Xavier’s name in a hurry to exhibit her furious pain.

“Do not force anger from me, else you won’t be happy…” she was cut short by Lynn.

“You are a weak she-wolf from the Moonlight Pack. You met Alpha Xavier while trying to save your life from rogues that almost ate you up. Isn’t this your maternal pack?” Lynn framed issues.

“He told you about me?” Norah said, disappointed. “Well, my identity won’t be hidden as long as I remain the most famous Alpha Luna.”

“I wonder if you can withstand the pains coming your way.”

“Who are you, and what do you want from us?” Norah got confused. “It is obvious you are here with an inferior motive.”

“Back to business,” Lynn said, trying to deviate.

Norah, sitting closer to her, felt comfortable after hearing this from Lynn.

“Alpha went on hiring you from the Blue Moon Pack?” she stressed her words.

“Norah, that’s not necessary for now,” Lynn said, ignoring the question, which made Norah more concerned.

Lynn, after this, acted nice.

“I’m not here to harm you, neither am I here for evil. Don’t worry, dear, you will certainly be happy working with me,” Lynn pretentiously told her.

Norah kept staring at her. She couldn’t believe or have much confidence that Lynn wasn’t up to something else.

---

“Who was that you brought in as an event planner?” Norah asked Alpha Xavier after a meeting with Lynn.

“She is the best, I guess,” Alpha said, standing with his hands on Norah’s shoulder as he whispered into her ear.

“She is more than a bitch. She called me a bitch and had the gut to mock me,” Norah ranted. “Alpha, what is going on? This shouldn’t be what I’m thinking!” she shouted at him.

Alpha felt confused, rubbing his hands over his head.

“She called you a bitch?” Alpha asked Norah.

“Yes, and she also nicknamed me,” she added.

“This is the height of it,” Alpha sounded defensive.

“You need to have her changed.”

“I’m sorry, Norah, I might not instead caution her.”

“Do you have an affair with her?”

“Do not accuse me, Norah. This is the least of what I expect from you,” Alpha Xavier warned.

“I do not believe or see a reason you shouldn’t cut off from her. She will destroy what we have both planned.”

“Hold me by my words, Norah, Lynn can’t do that,” Alpha assured her. “She is just here to assist.”

Norah’s heart burned in pain as she later related with Isabella.

---

“I am not comfortable with her,” Norah said to Isabella on the phone while dishing her breakfast.

“What happened?” Isabella asked.

“I want you back as my wedding event planner!”

“I’m sorry, Norah, I’ve been booked already. As we speak now, I’m not in the country,” she told her.

“So quick, Isabella? You couldn’t wait to have Alpha convinced?”

“Really? Is that what you believe — when he has finally brought in his girlfriend, claiming she’s an event planner?” Isabella said instinctively. “I think it’s time you understand him.”

Norah, hearing this, freed her hands from the plate, which fell and broke into pieces.

“My goodness,” she said to herself as she realized what happened.

“Isabella, are you sure you heard this?”

“I’m speaking from my instincts. I don’t know much about her, but I have to caution you to be careful.”

“You almost shattered my heart,” Norah breathed deeply. “Same here, I have the same feeling — but I can’t believe Alpha will do this to me.”

“We will see more in the wedding hall,” Isabella assured her and quickly ended the call to attend to her client.

Norah gazed at the broken plate, pondering what Isabella had told her.

“She must be saying the truth,” Norah muttered, pushing her lips out — her face nearly losing its look.