"I, Cosmo Walter, future Alpha of Deep Water, reject you, Madison Clark, as my mate and future Luna of this pack," Cosmo declares coldly. The words pierce through my heart like a million shards of glass, and a whimper escapes my throat, eliciting surprise reactions from the crowd. Whispers begin to float in the air as I force myself to stay standing, even though it feels like death is trying to tear me apart and bring me into its silent slumber.

I could still remember the bitterness of that night. I could still feel it in my heart.

I am Madison Clark, and this is my story.

...

The orange glow of the harvest moon bathes the land in an ethereal light, casting a mesmerizing aura over the forest and meadow. Amongst the tall grass and wildflowers, two wolves patiently await their moment, hidden from view. The soft breeze carries the scent of fall, while the crystal clear lake reflects a mirage in the shape of a crescent moon, visible only during rare events. One such event is about to unfold today - the birth of the new Moon Goddess's pup, the next in line to replace the current Goddess.

This day marks an opportunity for the two wolves to seek revenge. Years ago, their daughter was taken from them by the current Moon Goddess, who heard her lone cry. The wolves intend to take the newly born pup, making the Goddess face the suffering they endured. The lush green forest materializes only briefly during these significant moments, providing the perfect chance for the wolves to strike.

As the forest comes alive, the wolves, guided by the light of the orange moon, cautiously navigate through the shadows. They know that guards will patrol the area during the Goddess's childbirth, so they must move with utmost care. Slipping through the trees and underbrush, they remain stealthy, using their keen sense of smell to avoid detection and any wolves who might stand in their way.

A hushed conversation reaches their ears as they draw near their goal.

"The Goddess's mate is on his way to claim the pup."

The wolves' hearts race, for if he arrives sooner than expected, their plan will be thwarted.

"We have our orders: take the Future Goddess to him outside the forest before this ephemeral place vanishes," the thieves remind each other. Patiently, they wait until the guards move on, leaving the coast clear. With utmost caution, they move from one shadow to another, their determination guiding their steps, until the soft cries of an infant reach their ears. They have reached their destination.

Emerging from the shadows, the two wolves reveal their menacing teeth to the woman sprawled across a bed of moss, her white hair fanned out behind her, and her face drained from the hardships of childbirth. Beside her, the Moon Goddess, weak and vulnerable, lies with a wooden stump serving as a makeshift bassinet, from which the cries emanate. The newborn child, with white hair and prismatic colored eyes, protests her birth and the cold surroundings, just within their reach. A twig snapping underfoot alerts the weary woman to the presence of intruders, but no one is there to stop them.

"Please, leave," she whispers weakly, her hand stretching toward the pup that has now settled. The larger of the wolves growls menacingly, preventing the weakened Goddess from moving, fearing for her newborn's safety. The smaller wolf steps forward, her eyes fixed on the newborn. The pup looks so innocent, with small, curly wisps of white hair swaddled in a black wool blanket. Though the smaller wolf had come here with the intention of killing the infant as planned weeks before, she finds herself unable to harm the innocent life before her. Instead, she gingerly takes hold of the blanket and carries the pup away. Confused, her partner follows suit.

The heartbroken wails of the Moon Goddess follow their retreat, and the guards are alerted to find Baby Madison, as orders are urgently issued.

After seven years...

I giggle with delight, joyfully chasing my brother Finn around the yard as he playfully dangles his brown wolf's tail just out of my reach. He always teases me, his wolfish grin and mischievous eyes adding to the fun. Suddenly, my father, Caspian Clark, Beta of Deep Water, sternly orders me to leave Finn alone. Fearful of my father's anger, I stop in my tracks, but Finn reassures me with a gentle nudge and a low whine, comforting me with his presence.

"I'm just playing with Finn, Father," I respond quietly, seeking comfort in my brother's furry form while trying to avoid my father's disapproving gaze. At seven years old, I can't comprehend why my parents are so strict with me. Finn, who is only eight years older than me, has always been the favorite, despite our close bond and his love for me. In my parents' eyes, I am merely a she-wolf destined to leave once I find my mate.

My mother, Piper Clark, stands by my father's side, rolling her eyes as she adds, "Mads, Finn is the future Beta, and Cosmo will be the next Alpha. You're just a she-wolf who will eventually have to move on once you find your mate." Finn sighs, expressing his disagreement with our parents, always standing up for me.

"But as Finn's little sister, he should protect me too. We are family, and it's his duty to protect family," I argue back, hurt by the feeling of insignificance to my parents. In an instant, I feel a sharp sting on my cheeks as my mother slaps me, filling me with anger. Both my parents radiate anger, and my mother yells at me, making it clear that Cosmo will always be more important than me.

Tears stream down my cheeks, and without a word, I sprint into the woods behind me, seeking solace and love in a place where I feel safe. My father's calls for me to come back and the fear of potential punishment propel me to run faster. I head towards the river, where I can mask my scent and disappear from anyone who might follow me.

Remembering Finn's trick, I wade into the river until it reaches my knees and walk in either direction. The flowing water erases my scent, allowing me to escape safely. I head toward the North, where a waterfall lies just beyond the pack boundaries. I follow the vines that climb the side of the rocks until I reach a hidden cave, where a stream leads me towards the light at the end.

Finally, I find myself in a lush meadow, my short legs hidden among tall grass and wildflowers. As I walk towards a weeping willow tree, I wipe away my tears with determination. This place is my sanctuary, and I refuse to let tears taint its beauty.

"Mads, who hurt you this time, Little Wolf?" A soft, melodious voice fills my ears as I find solace, leaning against the tree where Genesis, the elf who guards this hidden meadow, patiently waits for me.

"My parents, as usual," I whimper, feeling her strong arms lifting me gently, comforting me against her warm body that carries the scent of the wildflowers surrounding us.

"What happened this time?" Genesis continues, her long black hair dancing in the wind as she soothes me with her presence.

"The usual. Finn and I were playing, but they told me to leave him alone. I'll never be important to them, will I?" I respond, my voice growing softer as I gaze into Genesis's green eyes.

"You are bound for great things, Little Wolf. I can see it," she says, avoiding my direct question once more. I pout, and tears flow down my chubby cheeks once again. Genesis sighs, cradling me away from the comfortable shade of the willow tree and leading me toward the small lake where unicorns drink and frolic.

"Little Wolf, one day, I may not be able to protect the unicorns. Witches and werewolves, especially Crescent, hunt them for the magic hidden in their bodies and blood. Do you know why I let you come here?" She asks pride shining in her eyes as she guards this hidden home.

I shake my head, unsure after contemplating the question, my white curls bouncing with the movement as a light breeze brings the scent of flowers closer to us.

"Because you see them as friends. I was wary when I found you here, curled up among the foals fast asleep. I always send you back home, but you kept showing up," Genesis smiles at me, her slender fingers wiping away my tears as she kisses my forehead. It was last year, after a fight with my father, that I found the unicorns.

"Do you mean it?" I ask quietly, seeking reassurance as I hide my face in the crook of her neck.

"Of course, Little Wolf. Now, go to sleep; it's late. You'll wake up at home soon," Genesis's voice lulls me to sleep, my little body exhausted from crying and finding comfort in the elf I think of as my mom.

"Maddie, is this where you've been all day?" A gentle shake on my shoulder brings me back to reality, and I open my eyes to see Finn looking worriedly at me. His hand brushes against my face, and I wince, noticing the hardness in his eyes in the dim light. Most likely, a bruise has formed from the earlier slap. I'm hidden in Finn's closet, using a teddy bear twice my size as a bed, while the clothes above conceal me from view, just as Genesis always does to keep me safe.

"Yes, I fell asleep crying," the lie flows easily, and Finn ruffles my hair, carefully scooping me into his arms with a sigh. Silently, my brother carries me into my room and tucks me into bed, a look of sadness in his eyes that I've never seen before.

"I always tell them that you hide in my room, but they never listen. You're my little sister, and I know you, Maddie," Finn begins, running his hands through his hair as he gazes outside my window at the full moon, casting a warm glow that brings me peace.

"I know, Finn," I yawn, giving him a sleepy smile in gratitude for his concern.

"Go to bed, Maddie. Tomorrow, you have a big day with the Alpha Family," he bids me good night, flicking off the lamp beside my bed before leaving me to sleep under the comforting glow of the moonlight.

"Now, you know the rules, Madison. Be polite and don't eat too much. You're a lady, not a rogue," my father warns, and I nod, my curly white hair bouncing with the movement. From a young age, my parents set high expectations for me. They taught me to sit with my back straight and hands folded in my lap. I must never rush while eating, only consume what's on my plate, and never ask for more. Additionally, I should refrain from speaking unless spoken to, as breaking this rule in public could lead to punishment from my father.

"I understand, Father, and I will behave properly," I answer quietly, catching Finn clenching his fists and glaring at our father from behind. After the first and only punishment for not following these rules, Finn and our cousin Gracie helped me with my wounds caused by my father's rage. I remember those long and painful four weeks I endured last year. It seems like my brother is thinking about it too.

Just as my parents were about to add more warnings, the front door opens behind me, revealing the easy-going smile of Alpha Artemis as he walks in and ruffles my curled white hair. A tall man with black hair and tanned skin, Alpha Artemis treats me like his own daughter, just like he does with Eloise, his own child. With him around, I feel safe, and I often wish he were my father, not the man who yells and threatens me.

"Sorry I am late, Caspian. Cosmo was trying to find his new toy car to show Maddie here. You know how kids are," Alpha Artemis says, looking down and winking at me. I overheard my father and Alpha Artemis talk about my potential as Cosmo's future mate. The thought makes me uncomfortable.

"It's fine, Alpha. I understand," my father replies, smiling. My mother remains silent but gives me one last warning look, reminding me to behave before excusing herself and heading into the kitchen. I can't understand why my parents always warn me to behave. Can't they see that I am a good girl?

I stay quiet as the Alpha and my father discuss pack matters, and Finn gives me a reassuring smile. He telepathically links to me, [Remember to tell me all about your day when you get home tomorrow.] After agreeing happily, he winks at me and quietly slips out of the room, probably heading up to his room to take care of the responsibilities he has as the next Beta.

"Well, we should be heading out now before it's too late. Caspian, I will bring Maddie home tomorrow safe and sound. Have a good night. You ready to go, Maddie?" Alpha Artemis finally concludes the conversation between the two grown wolves, extending his hand towards me. I pick up my bag, which contains some clothing and a sleeping bag for tonight, and gladly take his hand as we prepare to leave.

"Yes, Alpha," I answer Alpha Artemis, taking his hand and skipping out the door, without saying goodbye to my parents. The excitement of getting away from this house and them makes me extremely happy. As we walk towards where Luna Everleigh waits with Cosmo and Eloise, Alpha Artemis asks about my school life and what I've been up to since seeing the Alpha Family last. The pathway through the pack leads us closer to the dense forest on the west side of Deep Water. I love the smell of our forest, a mix of wildflowers, tall Canadian Maple trees, and sturdy pines. I'm almost done telling the Alpha about the book I'm reading when I'm tackled to the ground, greeted with giggles filling my ears as Eloise's scent fills my nose.

"Hi, Maddie!" she greets, and we giggle together as we sit up and start chatting about our trip today. Alpha Artemis chuckles as Eloise and I jump to our feet excitedly, my friend pointing to where Cosmo and Luna Everleigh stand waiting for us. As usual, Cosmo is holding a Nintendo D.S. gaming device in his hand, the sounds of a video game audible. I frown in his direction, knowing it's not his fault that my brother is forced to spend more time with him than me, or that my parents prioritize my future over me. But I can't help feeling a bit resentful, even if he is cute.

Eloise pulls my attention back, babbling about the Full Moon tonight and how the unicorns will appear under the full moonlight, bringing their foals to play in the pink crescent moon-shaped lake. I pretend to be surprised, but I've already been informed about this by Genesis. The unicorns would be celebrating their foals gaining powers blessed by the Moon Goddess.