Chapter 5

The forest air was thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers as Crystal gazed out the window, her mind wandering back to her childhood. She had grown up in a world where she didn't quite fit in.

  Her childhood was a blur of memories, some happy, some painful. She remembered running through the forest with her parents, feeling carefree and wild.

  She also remembered the times she intended to shift. Unable to do so, she felt like a failure in the eyes of the pack.

  As she grew older, Crystal realized she was different from the other werewolves.

  In the pack, strength and speed were highly valued and those who lack these qualities like Crystal, often struggled to find their place.

  The other pack members would often whisper, calling her names like "weakling" and "human".

  Crystal always felt like she didn't belong, like she was living in a world she was not supposed to.

  Crystal's parents were always supportive. They loved her and did their best to help her fit in.

  But even they couldn't shield her from the harsh realities of the pack life.

  One particular incident stood out in Crystal's mind. She must have been around 12 years and she was trying to participate in a pack training exercise.

  The other kids were effortlessly shifting and running through the forest but Crystal couldn't keep up.

  She stumbled and fell, feeling frustrated and embarrassed.

  Alpha Williams, George's father had approached her. "You are not like the others, Crystal" he said, his voice firm but not unkind. "Maybe you should focus on other things, things that don't require strength or speed".

  Crystal had felt a sting from his words but she took them to heart. She focused on her studies, learning about herbs and medicine. 

  She became skilled at healing wounds and brewing potions.

  Deep down, Crystal still longed to be like the others. She wanted to run through the forest, feel the wind in her fur.

  As she grew older, Crystal realized that might never happen. She would always be different, always be seen as weak or inferior.

  Crystal's thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. "Hey sis, can I come in?" Ethan asked, his voice muffled through the wood.

  Crystal wiped away the tears that had pricked at the corners of her eyes, trying to compose herself. "Yeah, come on in," she said, forcing a smile.

  Ethan entered the room, his expression curious. "What's going on? You've been up here for a while. Mom and Dad are getting worried."

  Crystal shrugged, not wanting to discuss her feelings about Ryder or her past just yet. "I'm fine. Just lost in thought."

  Ethan nodded sympathetically. "Okay, well, I came to ask you to come downstairs. We have some news to share."

  Crystal's curiosity was piqued. "What is it?"

  Ethan's expression turned serious. "It's about George and Amy. They're getting married."

  The words hit Crystal like a punch to the gut. Her eyes widened and her jaw clenched as her heart sank "When?" she asked, trying to keep her voice neutral.

  "Next full moon," Ethan replied, watching her reaction closely. "I know it's a lot to take in, but I thought you should know."

  Crystal nodded, taking a deep breath. She would have to face George and Amy eventually, and she might as well start preparing herself now. "Thanks for telling me, Ethan. I'll be down soon."

  As Ethan left the room, Crystal felt a sense of unease wash over her. She wasn't sure how she would react to seeing George and Amy together, but she knew she had to be strong for her family's sake. And for her own.

  ___

  The sound of birds chirping and leaves rustling filled the silence as Amy stood outside Crystal's house, her mother-Carly, by her side and a forced smile on her face. 

  She was determined to show off her upcoming wedding and her happiness, hoping to rub it in Crystal's face while being ushered into the home.

  As Crystal came downstairs, Amy extended the invitation with a flourish. "Hey, Crystal! We wanted to invite you to our wedding! Isn't it just the most exciting thing?"

  Crystal's expression remained neutral as she took the invitation from Amy. "Thanks for inviting me," she said calmly, her voice devoid of emotion.

  Amy's eyes narrowed slightly, her smile still plastered on her face. "We're really excited about the wedding," she said, trying to gauge Crystal's reaction. "George is going to make a fantastic alpha."

  Crystal glanced at the invitation, her expression still neutral. "Congratulations" she said, her voice polite but detached. "I'm sure it'll be a lovely ceremony."

  Amy's smile faltered, her lips twitching slightly as she struggled to maintain it. She had expected anger, tears or some sign of weakness but Crystal's calm demeanor was unsettling.

  "We'd love for you to be there" Carly chimed in, trying to help fill the awkward silence. "It would mean a lot to us."

  Crystal nodded graciously. "Thank you for inviting me. I'll consider it."

  As the visit drew to a close, Amy felt a sense of frustration. She had wanted Crystal to be upset, to show some sign of vulnerability but Crystal had remained composed throughout. As they left the house, Amy turned to her mother with a mix of emotions.

  "That didn't go as planned" she said, her voice low.

  Her mother patted her hand reassuringly. "Don't worry, dear. Crystal's just trying to save face".

  But Amy wasn't so sure. There was something about Crystal's calm exterior that made her wonder if she'd underestimated her.

  Edwin and Sarah, who had been watching from the living room, exchanged a knowing glance. They had witnessed the entire exchange.

  After Amy and mother departed, Sarah, turned to Crystal and asked "Are you okay, sweetie? That couldn't have been easy for you."

  Crystal shrugged "I'm fine, Mom. It's just a wedding invitation. I just don't want to give Amy the satisfaction of getting a rise out of me."