POV: Olivia They said he would return by moonrise. The hall swelled with noise and heat. Warriors crowded the long tables, ale spilling, voices rising. The Betas’ family sat nearest the dais, laughing too loudly, pretending not to wait like the rest. I kept my head down and carried trays. “Latent, faster,” the kitchen matron snapped. “Yes,” I murmured. Plates. Cups. Bread baskets. In and out. Don’t spill. Don’t be seen. Still, whispers chased me. “He trained with the northern war camps.” “Came back stronger. Meaner.” “Maybe he’ll finally choose a Luna.” My arms ached, but I didn’t let them shake. Latents didn’t get to tremble. We served. The air reeked of roasted meat, sweat, and smoke. Pack scent. Home, but never mine. I’d grown up in these walls and always felt like furniture. Two girls my age leaned close, their voices pitched just loud enough. “If he’s smart, he’ll pick from a strong line. No broken Luna. The pack needs a queen who won’t fail.” Their e
Last Updated : 2025-08-28 Read more