THE EX ALPHA MATE BACK FOR REVENGE

The atmosphere was cold, and everything around seemed to glitter in Norah’s eyes. It was her eighteenth birthday—the night she would have her first shift.

“I wish my parents were alive to witness this day,” she said softly to Isabella, who was stringing beads for her.

“I feel your pain, my dear,” Isabella replied gently. “But we cannot question the dead.”

“I can still remember the scent of my mother’s wolf. She was brave—known to be perfect.”

“Remember, today is your special day. And guess what?” Isabella teased, drawing Norah’s attention.

“What exactly?” Norah asked.

“After tonight, you’ll be ripe enough to find your mate,” Isabella said with a warm smile.

“I can’t wait to meet the wolf who’ll make me happy, complete me, and protect me,” Norah admitted dreamily.

“You know, Alpha Xavier will be here to witness your shifting. Pray he falls in love with you,” Isabella said teasingly.

“Hahahaha!” Norah laughed.

“Why are you laughing? Isn’t it funny, dear?” Isabella asked.

“Don’t you like Alpha Xavier—the most powerful and feared alpha?”

“Isabella, I wish my mate could be him,” Norah confessed sadly. “But I’m afraid he might not like me.”

“No one knows his heart since he claimed his ex broke it,” Isabella replied softly.

“Maybe he dated a ghost,” Norah joked.

“That’s funny, but I doubt it,” Isabella chuckled, returning to her work.

“Girl, hurry before it gets dark,” Isabella reminded her.

“There’s nothing left to prepare for except waiting for the moon to rise,” Norah said, rubbing her forehead. “Tell me the truth—are you secretly crushing on him?”

“I have my mate already waiting to do the needful,” Isabella answered with a grin.

“Still, I’m nervous. I don’t know what my first shift will feel like,” Norah admitted.

“I know your wolf,” Isabella said seriously. “And my instincts tell me Alpha Xavier might be your mate.”

“You sound like a seer,” Norah scoffed. “Anyway, I’m not worried.”

“Don’t be afraid—it’s not as painful as people say,” Isabella said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “I’m right here with you.”

Norah felt a strange warmth in her chest as her eyes met Isabella’s.

“Don’t worry, my darling. I’ll be there,” Isabella promised.

Later, they shared cake with friends. Midway through the laughter, Isabella frowned.

“I just remembered—Alpha Xavier hasn’t given you his gift yet. Maybe he doesn’t know,” she said.

“He usually gives gifts only to his pack members. I’m not one of them,” Norah replied. “If he did, it was out of kindness—he must’ve mistaken me for one.”

“Still, he seemed fascinated by your beauty,” Isabella teased.

“Um! I’m not his type,” Norah replied sharply.

Isabella blinked, hurt by her tone. “You know, I was disappointed too. After my shift and gift presentation, Alpha Xavier only shook my hand—not even a hug!”

“That’s why I won’t expect much from him,” Norah said.

“Well, my boyfriend loves me truly. I think he’s the best,” Isabella said proudly, while Norah drifted into thought.

“Norah,” Isabella called.