Rejected by the Pack, Reborn in Vengeance

Matthew watched their exchange, a smug grin spreading across his face as he wrapped an arm around Paloma’s waist. "Well done," he chuckled, his tone dripping with satisfaction. "I’m in a good mood today. How about I make us some fish chowder? Ever tried fish fresh from the local lake?"

Paloma caught the hint, casting a mocking glance Aubree’s way, her expression laced with venomous sarcasm. "Aubree, who are you kidding? Acting all high and mighty, but didn’t you still let your parents agree to your demotion for him? You’re still head over heels for Matthew." Her words were sharp, laced with jealousy and disdain.

Moments later, Paloma threw her bag to the ground in frustration, the sound making Matthew stop laughing. He reached out to calm her, but Paloma ignored him and stormed over to Aubree, yanking her hair and shoving her to the ground. Her grip tightened around Aubree’s throat, her voice low and menacing. "Don’t think Matthew belongs to you. He was only with you for a while. In the end, I’ll come out on top. Don’t get too full of yourself."

Lying on the ground, Aubree trembled, her eyes darting to her parents as they eagerly counted the severance money in their hands, oblivious to her struggle. Matthew, likely worried Paloma might actually lose control, made a half-hearted attempt to intervene, only to step back and let it happen.

When the brick hit Aubree’s face for the third time, tears streamed uncontrollably down her cheeks. Desperately, she shoved Paloma away with a surge of strength and snatched the money back from her parents’ grip. They jumped in shock as the bills scattered, cursing loudly.

"You wretched girl, what are you doing? That money isn’t just yours! Hand it over to us!" they shouted, their voices filled with greed and indignation.

With all her strength, Aubree pushed them to the ground, her voice shaking but firm. "This is my money, earned from my rank as a Delta! Give it back! You’re all heartless! I won’t be demoted! Don’t even think about it!"

She would never give up her position in the pack. Aubree stuffed the money back into her pocket, clutching it tightly, and ran toward the pack’s headquarters, determination driving every step. Her wolf stirred within her, a low growl of defiance echoing in her mind. She would not let them take this from her. Not again.