Luna Rejects Alpha Mate

The annual pack alliance ceremony was always a grand affair, with delegates from neighboring packs gathering to renew their vows of peace and cooperation. I stood beside Wilson, my fingers lightly brushing against his as was expected of a Luna, though he had made it clear through his stiff posture that he'd rather I kept my distance. Three years of this treatment had taught me to hide my hurt well.

The Great Hall of the Moonstone Pack house glowed with amber light from hundreds of candles, their flames reflecting off the polished wooden tables where Alpha Elena Blackwood and other visiting dignitaries sat. I kept my face composed in a serene smile that grandmother Luna had taught me was befitting of a Luna, even as my wolf, Aria, whimpered inside me.

*Stay strong,* I silently assured her. *Just a few more hours and this will be over.*

I watched as Rosa glided across the hall in her ceremonial dress—a stunning creation of silver silk that complemented her delicate frame. She had positioned herself strategically near the altar where the alliance documents would be signed, ensuring all eyes would be on her during the most important moment of the ceremony.

That's when I noticed it—a small tear forming along the seam of her dress, just below her shoulder blade. The fabric was stretching dangerously, threatening to reveal more than just a glimpse of skin.

"Wilson," I whispered, gently touching his arm. "Rosa's dress—"

He shot me a warning glance. "Don't."

But I couldn't ignore it. Despite everything Rosa had put me through, I couldn't let her be humiliated in front of the entire werewolf community. I slipped away from Wilson's side and moved swiftly toward her, taking my silk shawl from around my shoulders as I went.

"Rosa," I murmured, reaching her side and discreetly holding out the shawl. "Your dress is tearing. Let me help you cover it before anyone notices."

Her eyes widened, but not with gratitude. Something calculating flashed across her face before she turned to me with a look of horror that seemed to freeze her features.

"You did this!" she shrieked, her voice rising above the ceremonial drums. "You tore my dress to embarrass me!"

The hall fell silent. Every eye turned toward us.

"No, I—" I began, but Rosa was already backing away from me, clutching the torn fabric to her chest.

"She's always hated me," Rosa sobbed, her voice breaking perfectly. "Always been jealous that Wilson cares for me more than her."

I stood frozen, the shawl still extended in my hand. "Rosa, please. I was trying to help."

Alpha Elena's brow furrowed as she watched the scene unfold. The visiting Betas and Gammas exchanged uncomfortable glances.

"Wilson," I turned to my mate, my voice steady despite the humiliation burning through me. "I only noticed her dress was tearing and wanted to—"

"Enough!" Wilson's voice cracked like thunder across the hall. His eyes had darkened to a dangerous amber, his Alpha aura pulsing with