Marked for the Enemy Alpha

My mark ceremony was scheduled earlier than Vera’s, though the preparations were carried out simultaneously.

Rumors spread that Vera had thrown a fit, and King Robert had confined her to her chambers, only to be released on the day of the ceremony. Patrick hadn’t set foot in the central territory since, not even for the pack meetings.

I stayed out of the drama, spending my days lounging in my new quarters, indulging in lavish meals until I’d gained a noticeable roundness.

On the day of the ceremony, I was roused at dawn to be dressed and groomed. Once the ceremonial robe was draped over me and the veil secured, I was ushered into the car adorned with red ribbons.

“Won’t the King and Queen see me off?” I asked.

Wasn’t it customary for parents to bid farewell before a mark ceremony? Had they overslept?

I lifted the veil, peering out into the early morning mist. A light drizzle fell, and the surroundings were eerily empty, not a soul in sight.

“Queen Bristol said she’d come to see me off too. Where is she?”

The matron escorting me yanked the veil back down, chuckling.

“Time is tight, and we can’t delay. The King is occupied with pack affairs, so we must depart now.”

Ah, of course. The ceremony had to be timed perfectly for the Moon Goddess’s blessing. We couldn’t afford to be late.

“The King is busy, and the Queen and Queen Bristol are busy too. I understand, Matron.”

I sat upright, adjusting the veil, my voice now tinged with a hint of a sniffle. “It’s alright. I’ll be good, Matron. Let’s go.”

I had wanted to ask King Robert if he could give me a proper name, something other than just “Hannah,” but it seemed there was no time.

Hidden beneath the veil, my cheeks flushed, and my eyes brimmed with tears.

“I’ll be good, Hannah. I won’t miss home, and I won’t miss my mother.”

I wiped my tears with the edge of the veil, then forced a smile.

Mother, I’m getting marked today, to the most powerful Alpha in the north. I’ve heard he’s incredibly wealthy. Once I’m his Luna, I’ll honor your memory with the finest offerings, so you can rest in peace, and even the Moon Goddess herself will look upon you with favor.