Chapter 2

Jasper's expression darkened as a flicker of surprise and irritation flashed through his eyes.

"Elena, don't be childish." His voice carried unmistakable impatience. "You're not thinking clearly right now. You need someone to look after you. I made these arrangements for your own good."

"I said I don't need it," I replied evenly. "This is my problem to handle."

A ripple of murmurs spread through the guests. Clearly, none of them had expected me to turn down Jasper's "kindness" in public.

In their eyes, a cast-off and orphaned wolf being offered shelter by her former mate was already an extraordinary mercy.

"What do you mean by that?" Serena snapped, her voice sharp. "Jasper was kind enough to arrange a place for you, and you're still being picky?"

"I'm not being picky," I said calmly. "I'm simply refusing."

"Refusing?" Jasper's voice rose, edged with anger and threat. "You're an orphaned wolf. If you leave the pack, where exactly do you think you can go? Are you hoping you still have a chance to disrupt my ceremony?"

The words stabbed straight into my chest.

It was always those two words—"Orphaned wolf".

To them, that label was my entire identity. It was proof that I was lesser, the excuse they used to justify every insult and humiliation.

"Jasper's right," a sharp female voice cut in.

Serena's sister, Victoria Lowe, stepped forward. She was just as arrogant and cruel as Serena, and she was currently dressed in an expensive custom gown.

"A parentless stray really thinks she matters?" Victoria sneered with venom in her voice. "What, you think playing hard to get will make people notice you? That Jasper will suddenly change his mind? Don't make me laugh."

I clenched my fists, feeling my nails dig deep into my palms. The metallic taste of blood spread across my mouth as I bit through my lip.

"Victoria," Serena said, pretending to intervene, though her eyes gleamed with satisfaction. "Even if her background is unfortunate, we shouldn't hurt her feelings like that."

Victoria scoffed loudly enough for everyone to hear. "If she had any dignity, she wouldn't still be standing here. She's been officially rejected and still has the nerve to show up at her ex-mate's bonding ceremony. Does she not have shame at all?"

The whispers grew louder.

Some people snickered, and others shook their heads. Many looked at me with a mix of pity and contempt.

Every gaze felt like a blade, and every laugh rubbed salt into an open wound.

An older werewolf sighed and said, "Young, orphaned wolves these days really don't know their place."

Another woman chimed in, "Exactly. He's made it clear he wants nothing to do with her, and she's still clinging on. How embarrassing."

I wanted to argue, and I wanted to tell them the truth. But my throat felt locked tight, so not a single word was able to escape.

Just then, Victoria's expression shifted. Her eyes lit up with excitement. She looked almost manic, as if she'd just won the lottery.

"Oh! I almost forgot that I have wonderful news to announce!" she called out, successfully drawing everyone's attention. "Everyone, I have something thrilling to share!"

The ballroom gradually quieted as all eyes turned toward her.

She lifted her glass, her smile radiant. "I'm going to be bonded to Alpha Damon of the Blackwood pack! The official bonding ceremony will take place next month!"

The room erupted into murmurs.

The Blackwood pack was the largest pack in North Anthica. It's Alpha, Damon Fox, had a legendary alpha bloodline and was spoken of in awe.

Guests rushed toward Victoria, congratulating and flattering her, desperate to attach themselves to that connection.

"This is incredible!"

"Congratulations!"

"Victoria, you're so lucky!"

Greed gleamed in Jasper's eyes. He immediately abandoned Serena and strode toward Victoria. "This is amazing news! Victoria, if you need anything at all, the Silvermoon pack stands ready to assist!"

Everyone crowded around Victoria, praising and cozying up to her, as if she were already the most important person in the room.

No one looked at me anymore.

I stood alone in the corner, completely forgotten. It was like I didn't exist.

Their snobbery and ruthless pragmatism were laid bare.

"Elena, this is a joyous occasion for the Silvermoon pack," Jasper said coldly, not sparing me a glance, his tone laced with warning. "Behave yourself. Don't make a scene."