THE REJECTED LUNA'S FATE

As I stood outside, peering through the clear window, the world fell silent. I could see my reflection in the glass, and the terrible reality that I am the- I was only an omega, the lowest rank in the werewolf clan. Even though I strive really hard to look my best for the occasion. Even still, being at this gathering was quite difficult for me. I have tan skin; my long long curly hair shines under the sunlight. My blue eyes were as vivid as the sea or skies. Nothing about me is special. I am just a nerd girl.

Yet, when Alpha Ace messaged me a while ago, on the morning of my 19th birthday, I believe he had seen something special in me that nobody else could see. He told me to meet in the room of the pack house. Perhaps, this is the day I have been waiting for. Ace had always been a close friend, but when he met Olivia, he treated me differently and I was shocked.

It made sense to me now-perhaps he is developing feelings for her. At least, that's what my idiot's brain assumed. I realized how stupid I had been as I watched Ace through the window, groaning as he delighted another she-wolf. Fuck!

When our eyes unexpectedly intercepted, he curled his lips to smile. I did not feel awkward though and I turned pale. For some reason, I could not help but stare at the scene as he continued to talk to the blonde girl, who, in my opinion, is prettier than me. When she turned around at me, she lifted her brows and folded her arms across her chest as she spun back to face me.

"Ace, I think an idiot over there is watching us," she said in a low voice. My ears are quite active, and even though we are far apart, I can hear everything she said.

For the first time, I clenched my hand in great jealousy. I was bitter and lonely. Why is my so-called fated Alpha being so nasty to me?

"Don't mind her," Ace murmured, swiveling his head to the she-wolf he was speaking with. "She's just my omega mate, nothing unique about her!"

I felt so fucking offended with what he said, I did not expect that he would blurt out such harsh words against me. I wanted to leave, but for some reason, my whole body wants to stay I don't know why I am feeling this way as my mind is still processing what I just heard. I grieved quietly, but I dried my tears with the handkerchief he had given me earlier. I couldn't take my gaze away from him. I was absolutely stuck where I was like an idiot who wants to stay even though it would hurt me even more.

I watched Ace kiss her, then upon looking closer, I recognize that she is no other than Olivia, a billionaire she-wolf. She has a good front but in reality, she is miserable and treats low-ranking werewolves as if they are trash. Ace kissed her so passionately that he doesn't care if I see him. He took his lips away from hers. He dragged his feet towards the room where I am. I was afraid and sweating profusely; I couldn't believe I'd be caught so quickly.

"Happy birthday Sophia. I recognized your blue eyes so I knew you are here. He grinned, running his hands through his shiny black hair.

Fuck, he is still more handsome than before and my feelings for him are returning. His earthly scent, I missed it so much!

He talked again, still sporting his killer smile, which I admired. "You are welcome to partake in the fun, but there is no way I am going to accept you as my mate. Ashlea probably got it wrong when she stated I am your fated Alpha!"

It took all of my strength to hold back my tears when the smile on his face faded after he spoke. Who wants to see someone cry in front of one-the reason I called? It's simply incorrect. As I looked him in the eyes, he showed no sign of remorse for what he said. I had no idea he could be so cold, harsh, and numb. We were pretty close until that nasty she-wolf entered his life. I wanted to prove to him that I was worthy of his love... But deep down, I resented him for being so emotionless. My rage gets the better of me.

Olivia said something to him in hushed tones, and I was too timid to ask. I did not know Olivia well, yet on the surface, I believe she is not pleasant and unfriendly. I want to slap her thick face, but not right now, not in front of Ace. Our wolf side typically seeks pleasure and sex. I desire Ace even more now that we're both adults. But I am thankful that I was able to fend it off.

I was so surprised that she supported my desire to let go of our mate without causing any trouble. I knew she has a poker face and she treated us differently based on the rumors circulated within my clan.

"Are you sure?" I asked her, assuring myself if I heard her right.

"I'm just kidding... please know your place, Sophia, just because the Moon Goddess herself declared Ace is your fated Alpha does not guarantee he will follow it; we come from extremely powerful families, and Ace will never like a low-ranking she-wolf like you!"

Marry, a friend of mine suddenly came to save me from further humiliation. Even though we just me, she never treated me like trash. She is the only Beta female-wolf friend I have, thus I place a high value on her and have always set boundaries because she ranks higher than me.

"What is going on here?" she asked while looking at me.

"Nothing!" I replied.

Marry was smart enough to figure out what just happened by simply looking into my eyes.

It's not for wolves of low ranks to be in such great pain after being rejected. It was not uncommon either for us, weaker Omega's to die during the event. Nonetheless, I was somewhat aback by what was going on. I'm still in pain, but it doesn't show on my poker face.

"I'm on your side, Sophia," Marry said in a weak voice. "You don't deserve to go through this, Sophia, but it's not something I can take anymore; let's get out of here!"

Olivia and Ace were just staring at me, not talking like we were strangers. However, I did not look back. It was mundane to see Ace's reaction either. As of the moment, all my heart desired at the time was to avoid the mournful looks and curious whispering of the gossip pack members surrounding me. I stormed off and I knew exactly where to go.

There were a few wooden chairs among Ninebark shrubs at the highest point in our territory-perhaps the name of our pack. It was a lovely place for couples to spend time together at night. During the day, practically all of the pack members were busy. It was really tranquil. I enjoy coming here to take in the beautiful environment. The slopes and pine trees were always covered with snow in February. It was beautiful and divine.

All the werewolves have naturally warm bodies, except for us Omega werewolves. We are more resilient to the cold! Still, the dress I had picked out to impress Ace was inappropriate for this weather. Out of alternatives, I hugged myself to make my body warm as the cold breeze of wind constantly blew on my skin. My head was still in chaos, so I wasn't ready to go home just yet.

"Why?" That question is hard to remove from my mind and it makes me fucking tired, thinking about that. Despite being the lowest rank in our group, Omegas were treated with dignity. No one underestimated us. I used to be very close with Ace. Since I was raised without a father, Ace was the closest manly figure in my sight. He was like an older brother; I admired him beyond words. I thought I believed in lies all these years that he cared for me. Why did he reject me in front of everyone? Why did he choose Olivia over me?

"Sophia?" I heard a distinct voice calling my name. I was in a mood for a conversation so I just ignore it.

"Sophia, How did it go?"

In less than a minute, my best friend Marry was standing next to me. Her natural blonde hair is so mesmerizing to look at, the best I have seen so far. She was wearing a blue winter jacket perfect to protect her from the winter. She was a simple she-wolf like me and she was determined to become a warrior five years ago. The very moment her brown eyes landed on my watery eyes, I think she felt my pain.

"Oh shit!" she said, putting her palm to her lips. "Don't tell me he..." She took a long breath, but I didn't allow her to go on with her obviously disrespectful inquiry.

"He rejected me," I stated flatly. "I mean, I tried rejecting him... yet..." My sobs cut my statement short.

"Shh, it's fine," she said as she rubbed my head. "I'm going to murder that bastard for harming you... just wait!" she growled.

She was ready to stand up, but I stopped her. "No!"

I immediately stopped crying, looking straight into her eyes. "It's fine, Merry. I am not going to force him if he did not like me."

I attempted to keep my emotions at bay. Disrespecting a ranked member was a crime under werewolf law. She could get in big trouble if she even called Ace a jerk in front of him. I had no doubt she'd try something, especially after hearing my story. That's why I don't like telling her something bad about myself. For the time being, I am in pain. How my heart had been shattered. Merry is really concerned about me, and I know she is in pain as well.

Marry did not seem to believe in me. She showed a half-smile and rubbed my shoulder. "That's my girl. He's not worthy of having you. If I were him, I would apologize before I knocked himself."

"Hopefully, that won't be necessary," I responded, smiling. Merry is both my dearest friend and my guardian. The one who always manages to convert my sadness into a smile.

She hugged me again before wrapping her arms around me. "Now, you look stunning in that gown, but I don't want you to get cold out here," she said as she swiftly removed her coat and slung it over my shoulders.

"Don't worry Marry, I'll go get changed," I insisted. "You need not give me your coat... you might get sick."

"Are you fucking serious? I am immune to colds. Second, I need to go home and take a bath anyway to wash all the specks of dirt in my body. Third, Steven wishes to see you now, so you'll have to wear this coat. You can return my coat anytime you want."

"Wait, Steven requested my presence?" I asked in wonder.

She nodded. The situation wasn't uncommon, especially since I was being trained to be his personal assistant. Although, he'd usually schedule our meetings beforehand. Now, I could expect that he would give me high importance.

"Of course, among all the Alpha werewolves, he is the one who is greatly concerned about you so I am not surprised if he gave you a high importance!"

I was state in state of shock.

"I guess we'll see each other again later?" she said, giving me a wide smile.

"At lunch? Sure! And remember, girl! Keep your head up and contact me if you need anything!"

I nodded in agreement and smiled at her. We parted ways, and I headed back toward the pack house. I had lived knowing that Ace would finally accept me but after he rejected me, I felt alone and pitiful. The cool breeze blows against my legs.

I was thankful that Merry let me borrow her jacket to hide my face as I made my way through the pack members. I am hoping not to see Ace again. Luckily, our paths did not cross. He was probably screwing Olivia who was full of herself. My heart ached at the thought of them being so close.

I shook my head, taking a deep breath before I knocked on Steven's door. I prepared myself so he won't see me as pathetic. Hopefully, he would never find out about Alpha and me.

"Sophia? I am so happy to see you again, please enter!" The kindest Alpha welcomed me with open arms as he opened the door.

Despite his lofty rank, Steven was exceedingly humble. His parents had raised him to be courteous of all pack members and to treat them as though they were family. He never treated me or anybody else in Omega like crap. He paid close attention to all of the wolves in our pack, studying their preferences to bring out the best in each of them.

At 26 years old, he had an amazing reputation. Steven pulled out the chair for me, letting me sit down before he took his own place behind the carved table. He ran his hands through his black hair and his unique crimson eyes locked on me.

"You wanted to see me, Alpha?" I asked in wonder.

"Indeed! I'm sorry to disturb you on your special day!" He smiled, crossing his arms over his chest.

"I really appreciate that." I was perplexed as to why he had summoned me here, but I thought it was impolite to inquire.

"I don't want to waste your time, so I'll get right to the point," Steven grumbled. "I've heard the widespread chatter about what Ace did, and I'd like to apologize on his behalf."

Inside my thoughts, I was freaking out. Although it is impossible to conceal such embarrassment. After all, he is still the Alpha.

I scowled slightly, pushing back tears once again. "I'm not sure what's up with Ace; I used to know him as a brilliant and dedicated guy, and then he suddenly changed out of the blue moon!"

He paused for a while, staring at me. "Why am I telling you that? You already know. You used to be friends, after all!"

"It's okay, Alpha!" I reassured him, I was not interested anymore to talk about what happened earlier as I was still in pain.

"Stop lying to your teeth," Steven frowned. "Believe me, I would not hesitate to kick his ass for rejecting you in front of everyone. Only if I was there, I could somehow manage to de-escalate the situation, this would never have happened." His statement left me amazed.

"Anyway, this is no longer about him. I know it's common for rejected mates to run away from their pack. I hope you won't leave me, Sophia. We badly need you here, especially since you will soon work for me!"

Steven kissed my forehead as a sign that I am an important part of his life.

"I swear not to leave, Alpha. Even if there are so many reasons to do so, this is my home." I let out a sigh. "However, are you certain about making me work for you? I just don't think I'm capable of doing that... it's too much if you ask me!"

I intended to do that, I had enough pain in my heart and there is no way I could lift my head this time.

"Oh common! We've been through this, Sophia. You're the best fit for the role. You're smart and followed every instruction. It's very wrong to waste your potential. Have you remembered what my father used to say? If you judge a wolf by its capability to hide..."

"It'll live believing it's an idiot." Finally, someone other than Merry cheered me up. "Well, then, I'd like to accept your kind offer and pledge to try my best!"

He gave me a sneaky grin. "That's what you're supposed to say; please enjoy your special day; I'm sure you'll find a way to celebrate it no matter what happened," he remarked as he handed me a key.

I knitted my forehead in confusion. "Why did you give me a key?"

"You can take whatever you want from my liquor cabinet, including the red wine; you're my favorite."

I hesitated for him being too kind to me. "I think it's too much to ask!"

"Please do not be shy. You are close to me and that help is fine by me. Although, don't let the alcohol get into your head as your first day as my assistant will begin tomorrow."

He opened the door for me and gave me away. I nodded my head. "Thank you, Steven!"

"By the way, I prefer you to call me by my name once you become my assistant, see you in a bit!"

I went inside after putting the key in my pocket. The sadness visited my face again. Shit! I think I am not in the mood to party anymore and I could not think of anything else but to drink alcohol so I can forget what happened earlier even though deep inside, I wanted to talk to Ace and begged him to prove myself worthy of becoming his mate. But the fact of the matter is, forcing him to notice me is not what I wanted to happen.

After talking to Steven, I finally decided to return to where I and my mom were peacefully living together. I was thankful to Marry because her coat help me against the cold wind. Although, my legs were still shaking as hell. The moment I stepped inside the house, I remembered that I had to eat with my mom as a way to celebrate my birthday, and having lunch at home with her is what I always look forward to every time I celebrate my birthday.

The aroma of her special Montreal-style Smoked Meat reached my nose and I realized that she did not forget my favorite. This time, I have almost forgotten that I was being rejected by my Alpha mate.

She was already looking at me as I walked into the kitchen, expecting me to arrive.

"I recognize your footsteps and am relieved to see you come home; I thought you had forgotten about me!"

I disagreed by nodding my head. "There's no way that's going to happen; I always look forward to enjoying my favorite Montreal-style Smoked Meat you cook on my birthday!"

She just gave me a wide smile. "Lunch will be ready in a bit, come on and sit down. Let's have some chit chats while waiting for the lunch to be ready!"

I tried to sound happy but for some reason, the moment I was rejected by my Alpha mate is returning to my head and I suddenly frowned. My mother recognized my behavior and became unhappy when she noticed my gloomy expression.

"What is wrong honey? Did your Alpha reject you?"

Damn! There is really nothing that my mom could not notice, especially when it's about me. Since I was a kid, I literally shared all of my stories and she knew exactly if I was hiding something from her. For some reason, I was swallowed by sadness and my feet were trembling in fear.

She pulled her feet towards me and offered me a nice hug, which I desperately needed right now as I felt bad for myself.

"Rejection is a part of life, Honey, but it does not imply you are unworthy; it is fine if you are furious with him; just don't try to push yourself to be happy right now!"

My mom's advice is such powerful and I am so grateful that she sympathizes with me as I go through this difficult part of my life.

"I am so grateful to have a mom like you. But don't worry, I went through a lot before so this is way too easy for me to handle!"

I really went through a lot before and I am used to being lonely. I don't have many friends and that is just fine by me. What is important for me is I have my Mom, Marry, and Steven who I look up to. They are my family and it does not matter if I want a small circle of social life.