Chapter 3

AYLA

I am in the human town, looking at stores to find the right one that sells evening gowns. Most will get them made by one of the designers in the pack, but knowing how most feel about me, I went to town instead.

Finding the store Mom mentioned, I walk inside, and I start looking around, overwhelmed by the hundreds of dresses. They are all in different styles and colors, long evening gowns and shorter but still classy cocktail dresses.

I stand there looking, suddenly not so sure what sort of dress I am actually looking for.

“Oh no, those won’t fit you.” An old woman said as she came out of a back room.

“Oh, I, erhm. I am just looking, I need a dress for a significant formal event.” I relax, she's trying not to say too much.

“Ah, yes. I did read that there was going to be this special moon soon. I know some are very important for you wolves.” She says as if she were reading a recipe on meatballs, and I am a little shocked.

“Some of us in this town know about our kind. Me I am an old wolf living my life in peace here, running my store.” She says, and her eyes flicker to prove what she says.

“I didn’t know that anyone lived outside the pack,” I say and smile.

“Oh, but I am not a packmember. I once lived in a pack, far away from here. But when I got old, and my mate passed away, I wanted to be myself.”

“I see, does Alpha Grayson know you are here?” I ask.

“That old, blind Alpha wouldn’t see a rogue even if it was in front of him. No, he doesn’t know. And I hope we can keep it our secret.” She says, smiling.

“I won’t say a word. Not that anyone would believe me anyway.” I say and smile back.

“Are you okay, sweetheart?” She asks, looking at me, concerned.

“I don’t have a wolf, so most think of me as useless. That’s why I have to go outside the pack for a dress.” I say quietly, not looking at her. So I don’t see her coming over to me. And she put her hand on my chest, making me look into her eyes.

“Oh, sweetheart, you have a wolf, and she is in there, waiting.” She said as she turned to take a dress.

“What? You feel her? How? What is she waiting for?” The questions fly out of my mouth.

“She is waiting for the right time.” The old wolf says calmly as she holds up the most beautiful dress I have ever seen.

Its strapless sits tight on the chest and waist. From the waist, it flows out just a little. The dress is in a pattern of different silver tones, like the moon. It is absolutely gorgeous. I carefully hold it in my hands, scared to ruin it.

“What are you waiting for! Try it.” She says as she guides me to the room where I can try it.

The zipper is on the side, so I can easily zip the dress myself. I freeze when I look in the mirror, lost for words.

“That dress is as made for you!” The old wolf says excitedly.

“Not one part needs to be edited. It fits you like a glove. And you look very beautiful.” She adds softly. And I nod my head, still not able to speak.

“You need shoes and jewelry. Come.” She says, pushing me back into the main store.

She found a beautiful set of jewelry that perfectly matched the dress. A set of a princess-style necklace and matching earrings. And last, she found a pair of heels matching the dress.

“If I must come with a suggestion?” The old wolf asks, and I nod my head.

“You have beautiful hair. If I may say so. A thick braid with these braided into it. Will look absolutely gorgeous.” She says, showing me some silver treats.

“It is a great idea. I don’t like putting my hair all up anyway.” I say and smile to her, and she smiles back.

The old wolf helped me pack everything, and I am about to pay when I spot a picture next to the cashier. It’s a young man, and he is incredibly handsome, and for some reason, I feel drawn to his eyes.

The old wolf sees what I look at and smiles.

“That is my grandson, Liam. He looks handsome, right?” She says proudly, and I laugh a little.

“Yes, he does,” I admit, and she smiles.

“Good luck with the party, sweetheart.” She tells me and smiles warmly.

“Thank you for everything. And I meant what I said. I won't say anything.” I promise, and she smiles as I leave.

On the way home, I could not stop thinking about the old wolf and her kindness. It was rare that a wolf looked at me with respect. And I couldn’t forget her words. Did I really have a wolf? If, I wonder what she is waiting for. But for now, I am just happy I’m ready for the moon ball.