Prologue

"Don't stop," I told him.

Goddess, he felt so fuckin good. I had always wondered what sex would be like with Erick, and now that it was happening, I wanted it to last all night. As my body heated, my heart raced faster, and my breath became shallower. The intensity between us escalated as I scratched his back and encouraged him to go deeper. It was a moment I never wanted to end. Erick, being my mate, came just as a surprise to me as it was to him. Tonight was not only my eighteenth birthday but also the Wolf's Moon Gala. In my opinion, tonight was one of the most important nights of the year. The wolf's moon was sacred to all packs because, for one night, we felt a deeper connection to each other. A chosen pack would host a grand ball in honor of the Wolf's Moon. Alphas, Luna's, Betas, and some chosen Omegas from surrounding packs would come together once a year for the Gala, a tradition set in place long ago. The only pack that was absent was the Crystal Blood Pack. It was said that the Alpha killed his mate years ago; others said he was gay, while some thought Selene punished him for something he had done in his past life. This year, we held the ball at the Dark Moon Pack. Since my father was the Beta of the Blood Rose Pack, we arrived two days before the main event.

"Maliyla, hurry, you're going to be late," My mother yelled at me from the bottom of the staircase. I was supposed to have left with my best friend Gisselle an hour ago, but we were so busy playing around that we lost track of time. Gisselle and I had been friends for as long as I could remember. Her dad was the delta of the pack, so we spent every minute of the day together.

"I'm coming!" I yelled back to my mother, who was as impatient as ever because she wanted to ensure we had enough time to take pictures. After one last glance in the mirror, I finally descended the stairs, and my mother's eyes lit up. I could see the tears begin to swell up.

"Mom, don't start crying," I said, rolling my eyes.

My mother smiled as she replied, "I'm sorry, sweetie. I'm just so proud and happy for you!" I smiled back, "Thank you, but please stop crying. OK. Let's take those pictures now!" I said as I stopped on the last step before her.

"OK," my mother whispered, pulling me in for a quick hug before grabbing her camera and taking pictures. Even though I felt silly, I smiled and posed. After a few minutes, she put the camera away, and we both laughed. Finally, Gisselle descended the stairs, clad in a stunning teal mermaid strapless sweetheart gown that seemed to have been poured over her perfectly shaped body.

Although we were best friends, I was always jealous of her hourglass figure. There had always been something appealing about having an hourglass figure, something the Goddess hadn't blessed me with. Gisselle wore her long, dark brown hair in a high ponytail, and her make-up comprised natural colors. I was envious of her naturally flawless and effortless beauty. As for my dress, I wore a silver satin off-the-shoulder mermaid ball gown with a large slit and silver stilettos. My black waist-length hair was styled in soft curls and left down. I also opted for natural eyeshadow and red lips. Mom gave me Grandma's diamond earrings, a choker necklace with a large emerald pendant to wear, and a small silver box clutch with a rhinestone clasp. My look was complete with a sheer silver wrap to keep me warm, although I was sure I wouldn't need it, so I tucked it into my clutch after Mom finished the photo-op.

Kissing my mother goodbye, Gisselle and I made our way to the limo Dad had ordered and got in, ready for the best night of our lives.

"OMG, this is so exciting!" Gisselle exclaimed, "Are you excited? I mean, we could meet our mates tonight?" she said, gripping my hand excitedly. I could feel my heart racing as I thought about it.

"I'm more nervous than anything," I replied low and timidly.

Giselle nodded, "Well, I am sure whoever your mate is, they will be exceptional," she said with a reassuring smile.

I glanced at Gisselle and nodded as I took a deep breath; I knew whatever happened tonight would be an unforgettable experience. As we arrived at the venue, from inside the limo, it looked astonishing. The outside decor was exquisite. As we walked in, I was stunned by the beauty of the place. The garden was lit with candles and lanterns, creating a romantic atmosphere. The sound of crickets and soft romantic music filled the air, while the stars lit up the night sky. As we looked around, I noticed that much effort had gone into the venue's design. The organizers crafted everything carefully, from the flowers to the furniture to the lighting, to create a magical ambiance. Taking care of even the most minor details, the entire place looked like something out of a fairy tale.

Many people stood and talked, and others laughed and enjoyed the food. As Gisselle and I made our way across the garden toward an empty table, I suddenly caught the incredible scent of tobacco and amber. Looking around, my eyes landed on someone I was least expecting: Erick Lopez. He was so handsome and walked up to me with a coy smile.

"Hello, kitten," Erick said with a smirk. The fact that it was him surprised me. I felt my cheeks flush and my heart race as he gently lifted my hand to his lips and kissed it.

"You look beautiful," Erick whispered with a wink.

"Thank you, as do you," I answered shyly.

"Don't be shy," Erick responded as he stepped toward me and wrapped his arms around me. The moment he did, I felt my body relax in his arms as we began to sway back and forth to the music, and I felt like I was in a dream. We danced in the place momentarily before Erick suggested we go for a walk. He led me out of the garden and into the pool house. The moment we were alone, I heard a growl escape from him as he pushed me against the wall.

Erick's lips locked on mine, his tongue seeking entrance, and I gave in to the temptation as his hands slowly searched my body, exploring my curves and brushing my skin with his fingertips. I let out a soft moan as I felt my desire rising, my body full of need for him. As I clamped my thighs together, I knew he could smell my arousal. As Erick looked into my eyes, I saw they were filled with desire as his lips slowly descended onto mine, and I felt a surge of pleasure course through me as we kissed. Erick gently unzipped my dress, dropping it to the ground, revealing I was wearing black laced lingerie. His eyes widened with admiration as he pulled me closer and moved down my body, exploring with his hands and mouth until I was trembling with pleasure. After laying me down on the ground, he slowly entered me, eliciting a gasp from me. His thrusts were slow and gentle, gradually increasing in intensity. I closed my eyes and surrendered to the pleasure as we moved together in perfect harmony.

"Fuck kitten, your pussy is so tight," Erick whispered into my ear as he thrust harder and faster, and I felt myself getting close to the edge. I grabbed his back as I felt my orgasm building, and I moaned loudly. His intensity increased, and I felt my body shaking with pleasure as I experienced the most intense orgasm of my life. Erick followed soon after, collapsing on top of me and breathing heavily. We lay there for a few moments, enjoying the afterglow of our pleasure. As he rolled off, he pulled me close, kissing me tenderly.

"Goddess, you felt so good, Kitten," Erick said in a low voice. We lay there for a few moments, enjoying the moment together, before he stood and took my hand, helping me to my feet. Erick took a deep breath before speaking.

"I, Erick Lopez, Alpha of the Blood Rose Pack, reject you, Maliyla Giuliano, as my mate and Luna," his words sounded like a punch to my gut. I couldn't believe it as my wolf roared a loud, painful howl, and my heart was shattered. After putting his clothes back on, he walked towards me and kissed my forehead. It was clear from the glint in his eyes that he had no regrets.

"I'm sorry," he said softly before walking away, leaving me naked and alone.