The forsaken luna

It has been a full month since the shattering of her heart. It has been seven hundred and thirty hours since her world was shattered. The sensation remained surreal. Each passing day brings with it an escalating intensity of pain.

Despite the circumstances, she was acutely aware of the necessity to exhibit strength. She displayed remarkable resilience and fortitude throughout her pregnancy, nurturing the precious life that flourished within her-depending on her and requiring her presence. Resilient in the face of adversity, she remains grateful for the unwavering support of her steadfast companions. She possessed an unwavering strength, determined to preserve her sanity. The objective is to refrain from transforming into a monstrous being.

Zara had witnessed the visage of an ailing rogue. She harbored no desire for such a fate. The more time she spent apart from a pack and distanced from her mate. She ran the risk of transforming into something else. Transformed into a wolf consumed by a singular objective, the relentless pursuit of death.

Her gaze fell upon Ethan's breakfast on the bedside table. He exhibited a remarkable level of kindness and attentiveness towards her. He offered her solace, allowing her tears to flow freely as she sought comfort in his embrace. She consistently ensured that she was nourished. She was guiding the optimal timing for her showering routine. She allowed herself to reach a state where her odor became so repulsive that it induced a gag reflex.

She expressed her gratitude towards him. In the depths of the evening, she found herself without a destination. Had he not extended his hospitality, she would have remained adrift. Concealed in the shadows, she patiently awaited the arrival of her pack, fully aware of their sinister intent to bring about her demise. The group was entrusted with providing care and support for her. Zara emitted a soft snort, a reaction she kept to herself upon entertaining that notion. A cascade of fat tears streamed down her cheek.

Regardless of the extent of her emotional pain, her mind consistently gravitated toward Nathan. Had he only heeded her words? All she required was his undivided attention, a willing ear to hear her out. Had he been attentive, she would have informed him that Cole possessed the powers of a witch.

In the aftermath of his departure, she grappled with emotional turmoil. She had attempted to establish a mental connection with him. She implored him to grant her the opportunity to express herself. He was allowing the full range of her emotions to flow freely through their deep connection and expressing her profound affection and undeniable dependence on him at this very moment. However, he impeded the connection. She experienced the sensation of encountering an insurmountable obstacle.

She was indifferent to the outcome at this point. He likely surmised that it would be a more convenient course of action for her to end her own life, alternatively, if another individual escorted her. According to the prevailing legislation, he held the esteemed position of Alpha, thereby granting him the authority to pursue her relentlessly in the hunt and administer her retribution for the slaying of a fellow supernatural being. The legislation prescribed her penalty as capital punishment.

Her spiraling thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a resounding knock on the door. The room was enveloped in darkness until a small fracture formed, allowing a slender beam of light to seep through. With a gentle motion, she raised her head from the soft embrace of her pillow. A portion of it remains moist, evidence of her copious tears.

After the initial week had passed, she believed that there would be no further tears to be shed. However, despite efforts to contain them, leaks continue to occur daily. "Please, do come in," she uttered, her voice bearing an unfamiliar timbre that even she struggled to identify. The sound emitted was characterized by a rough and subdued quality.

She perpetually harbored the belief that Cole had been the cause of her emotional devastation when in fact, he had not. Nathan, however, left her with visible bruises. Nathan left her shattered and emotionally wounded.

Ethan approached her with a gentle tone, expressing concern. "It appears that you have not consumed any food." He sat on the edge of her bed, gently taking her hand in his. "You must partake in nourishment, for it is no longer solely for your sustenance," he addressed her with a tone that suggested she was akin to a ferocious creature. She was on the verge of snapping at any given moment.

That evening, she arrived at Ethan's residence after all that had transpired. Despite the audible rhythm of the heartbeat, disbelief persisted. Ethan promptly acquired a pregnancy test for her. It required a span of six units of time for the realization to permeate the consciousness fully.

She was on the cusp of embarking on the profound journey of motherhood. A resilient mother is navigating life's challenges while seeking refuge. I am a mother. It was a role she had never fathomed assuming. Is she capable of being a competent mother? Throughout her formative years, she was devoid of the presence of a maternal figure. There is a distinct absence of individuals available for observation and learning purposes. She found herself grappling with the challenge of adequately nourishing the child.

With a graceful motion, she delicately grasped the fork and began savoring each delectable bite of the pancakes thoughtfully prepared by Ethan and quietly masticating as he carefully observed. He was anticipating his forthcoming thoughts. Having spent a considerable amount of time in his company, she had become intimately familiar with the subtle mannerism of his lower lip being chewed. A sense of unease plagued him.

"Zara, it is detrimental to your well-being to confine yourself in such a manner," his voice resonated with genuine concern.

"May I inquire, Ethan, as to your desired destination for my presence? Regrettably, I cannot stroll, for I am bound to this abode. Should I venture outside, the grave consequence of my demise awaits, as they possess the intent to extinguish my life." Is he evicting her? Has she overstayed her hospitality?

Zara, you do not need to depart from your residence's premises. "Perhaps, it would be wise to vacate this room," he suggested, his gaze fixated upon her with his expressive brown eyes. The anguish he harbored was evident as he observed her immersed in her sorrow.

I am not acquainted with Ethan. "I would prefer not to impede your progress," she confessed, her fingers idly toying with the hem of the comforter as she deliberately averted her gaze from his.

"You would never impede my path, Zara. Why don't we engage in a joint activity? Such as fostering camaraderie as roommates." He gently playfully nudged her shoulder, accompanied by a boyish grin that consistently gave her a modicum of solace.

"Very well," she uttered as she emerged from her slumber. The sensation of her feet making contact with the floor seemed unfamiliar, as she had only risen from her bed on previous occasions to attend to bodily needs or cleanse herself.

She trailed behind Ethan, observing him gracefully carrying her now vacant plate into the kitchen. "Would you care to partake in the viewing of a film?"She arched an eyebrow inquisitively. "I shall prepare a batch of popcorn for you, generously adorned with an abundance of butter," he declared with a lighthearted grin. A faint smile tugged at the corners of her mouth, an unspoken response that conveyed her agreement.

As the credits rolled, Zara luxuriously stretched her limbs, finding solace in the simple act. She and Ethan reclined on opposite ends of the couch, basking in a rare moment of tranquility. It was a welcome respite, allowing Zara to escape the lingering shadows of that fateful day momentarily. Engaging in the ordinary activity of watching a movie with a friend, she savored the sensation of genuine laughter, unburdened by the need to feign amusement for the sake of appearances.

Whenever Ethan witnessed her display a glimmer of positivity, a gentle smile would grace his countenance. He had graciously granted her the necessary space and time to comprehend the profound truth that her beloved companion had forsaken her. The individual destined to be her eternal partner had callously deserted her, leaving her lonely.

He granted her the necessary space and time to grieve, allowing her to mourn the passing of her dear friend and the loss of her partner. Ethan refrained from pressuring her into discussing her feelings, understanding the importance of solitude in processing her emotions. However, he now gently guided her back to the present moment, urging her to face reality again.

Offering words of encouragement and reassurance, he reminded her of her inner strength and resilience. The pain she was experiencing would eventually subside, leaving her unscathed. Upon catching sight of the burn mark on her posterior as she arrived at his residence, Ethan's intuition kicked in, revealing to him the truth: Cole had inflicted harm upon her.

He informed Zara that Cole had sought her out, a revelation that prompted Ethan to realize his latent witchcraft abilities. The gravity of Ethan's threat against Cole was not lost on the latter, resulting in a consequential conflagration that engulfed the diner's kitchen.

Ethan harbored a deep sense of anger towards Nathan for his apparent lack of willingness to grant her the opportunity to clarify matters. The shocking revelation that Zara had ultimately been responsible for Cole's demise left him utterly incredulous. The fact that Nathan remained oblivious to the glaring signs that something was amiss further ignited Ethan's fury. Consequently, he found himself compelled to sever ties with his once trusted companion, as the mounting evidence overwhelmingly pointed towards the involvement of supernatural forces.

Have you considered the course of action you intend to pursue? Ethan's voice emanated with a gentle and subdued quality.

"No, Ethan, I am devoid of any companionship," she uttered, her voice quivering with emotion. In response, he gracefully approached her, enveloping her in a tender embrace.

That statement is not accurate, as I am here to assist you. Zara experienced a sense of guilt as she reflected upon her lack of communication with Ashley. Before her involvement with Nathan and the pack, Ashley held a significant place in her life, akin to that of a family member.

I am acquainted with Ethan. "Thank you for extending your hospitality," he expressed with a gentle smile, bestowing a tender kiss upon her cheek.

Ashley has expressed a desire to meet with you," he disclosed, his hand nervously grazing the nape of his neck.

Zara pondered aloud, expressing her desire to lay eyes upon her acquaintance.

I am capable of extending an invitation to her residence. He hesitated momentarily, carefully selecting his words. "She may appear slightly altered," he finally stated. Zara furrowed her brow, attempting to grasp his intended message.

Which film would you prefer to view shortly? He deftly shifted the conversation, a mischievous grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.

The following morning, Zara emerged from a night of indulging in a movie marathon alongside Ethan. As she gradually regained consciousness, she became aware of a distinct presence beside her in the bed. Gently opening her eyes, she found herself met with the countenance of a fair-haired woman mere inches away from her own.

Zara emitted a shrill cry of distress, her heart racing at an accelerated pace as she swiftly propelled herself into an upright position, poised to safeguard both herself and her infant. Ethan swiftly burst into the room, his gaze darting anxiously between the two women. As he absorbed the disconcerting tableau that unfolded before him, a visible release of tension coursed through his tightly wound physique. Emitting a sigh of relief, he redirected his attention toward the fair-haired individual.

"Elena, I explicitly instructed you to refrain from disturbing her until she had awakened," Zara remarked, arching an eyebrow inquisitively. The unfamiliarity of the woman's presence in Zara's room left her perplexed and curious.

Was this individual among Ethan's romantic partners? If so, what was the reason behind her intense gaze upon Zara during her slumber?

"I apologize for the misunderstanding, as I had assumed that she would readily identify her closest companion," the woman uttered with a discernible British inflection. Zara, in turn, found herself enveloped in a state of heightened bewilderment, surpassing any previous levels of perplexity she had experienced.

"If you were cloaked, she would notice you, but alas, you are not." The blonde arched her eyebrows, a subtle yet mischievous smile gracing her lips.

Zara glanced at Ethan, seeking confirmation, as the voice addressed her as "Babycakes, it's me, Ashley." Ethan nonchalantly dismissed her concerns with a wave of his hand, causing small purple shimmers to emanate from his fingers. When Zara redirected her attention to the person seated before her, she was astounded to find that the blonde individual had become a brunette whom she had grown fond of. Zara's jaw dropped in disbelief. Another wave of Ethan's hand reversed the transformation, returning the person to their original appearance as a fair-skinned girl with long blonde hair and captivating blue eyes. Witnessing this extraordinary occurrence firsthand, Zara realized that it was not a mere prank but rather an intricately orchestrated event.

"I am a vampire," Ashley declared, her smile revealing her elongated canines.

Pardon me, but could you kindly clarify your statement? Zara uttered in a state of astonishment.

I surmise that you have likely discerned that I deviate from the conventional archetype of the girl you have developed an affection for. Although I possess certain familiar qualities, I also possess distinct attributes that set me apart." Zara's brow furrowed in confusion, unable to fully grasp the meaning. Ashley inhaled deeply, gathering her thoughts before proceeding. "Allow me to elaborate further: my previous partner exhibited a rather unkind and unpleasant demeanor. His sole desire was to experience a sense of immense power. He would refuse to provide me with blood, leaving me feeling incredibly thirsty. The sensation in my throat would be akin to a raging inferno. He would find amusement in the situation. The gentleman in question was devoid of any semblance of kindness. Since our initial encounter, he consistently displayed a hostile demeanor toward me. I swiftly embarked on a sprint. He failed to appreciate the significance of the bond shared between companions. He employed me solely to transport his offspring without any other purpose. The encounter with Ethan had a profound impact on the trajectory of my life.

Zara gazed at Ethan with a perplexed expression. The revelation that Ashley, her trusted coworker who had grown to become her closest confidant, was indeed a vampire left her utterly astounded. A profound sense of disbelief washed over Zara, rendering her momentarily speechless.

Observing the perplexed expression adorning Zara's countenance, she confidently declared, "I possess remarkably potent cloaking capabilities." Ethan nonchalantly elucidated, "I employ them to assist fellow supernaturals who find themselves in dire circumstances."

Elena's voice was gentle and filled with remorse as she spoke, "Ethan has informed me about the events that transpired." She continued, "I surmised you required some quality time with a fellow female."

After enduring hours of tearful solace with her confidante, Elena, Zara experienced a profound revelation. Despite her altered appearance, she remained the same cherished companion she had come to appreciate deeply.

In her authentic state, she politely requested not to be addressed as Ashley, as it did not align with her genuine identity. Zara found solace in that Elena empathized with her current emotional turmoil - the relentless sensation of heartache and the overwhelming homesickness that engulfs one's being. Paradoxically, the individual who can alleviate these distressing sentiments remains inaccessible to Zara.

The unbreakable connection was a constant reminder that one's soulmate resided somewhere in the world. Elena, with a sense of urgency, conveyed to Zara the imperative need to maintain a secure block on this bond. Failure to do so would render Nathan capable of tracing her whereabouts, thereby subjecting her to the dire consequences prescribed by the law.

"Girls, I have prepared lunch," Ethan announced loudly from the kitchen. In response, Zara's stomach emitted a low growl, a poignant reminder of her limited food intake over the past month.

As Ethan entered the dining room, he presented a delectable spread of steak and cheese subs for all in attendance. Zara's countenance brightened, unable to suppress a smile at his considerate gesture. It was evident that he had taken note of her culinary desires and endeavored to fulfill them with utmost thoughtfulness.

May I inquire as to when you plan to resume your duties at the workplace? Elena inquired, savoring a mouthful of her sub, while Zara responded with a disapproving shake.

Elena's countenance adorned a slight smile as she expressed her reservations regarding the notion, deeming it less than favorable.

Please pay attention, my dear.

Zara retorted sharply, her voice laced with a hint of irritation. She inhaled deeply, mustering a cynical smile. Her outburst had been unintentional, a reflexive defense mechanism to prevent the resurgence of tears. "Nathan, you see, was the one who used to address me by that name."

Elena offered a melancholy smile, conveying her empathetic comprehension of the emotional distress she was experiencing. "I apologize, my dear." You should engage in your work. "It serves as a distraction," Zara mused, finding solace in returning to her professional endeavors. Her competence in her chosen field bolstered her sense of self, providing a much-needed respite from the aftermath of her separation from Cole. This realization instilled a newfound confidence in her ability to thrive independently.

What would be the outcome if they were to discover my whereabouts? Her voice emanated with a delicate timbre, barely audible in the tense atmosphere. The weight of uncertainty loomed heavily upon her as she contemplated the grim possibility of her life being extinguished. A more harrowing thought consumed her: the potential fate of her innocent child. Perhaps, just maybe, there existed a sliver of hope that they would grant her a reprieve if only to safeguard the precious life developing within her womb. She was prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice, offering her existence to shield the vulnerable being that depended on her.

"We can provide you with a cloaking mechanism, ensuring that your identity remains completely concealed," Ethan responded, his gaze fixed upon her. With a gaze of profound desperation, he implored her to consider accepting the proposition. She was aware that he was not making an effort to exert pressure on her. She could perceive the depth of his concern for her.

She harbored concerns regarding her well-being. She harbored no desire to persist in her current misery, seated here in sad contemplation. In addition, she harbored a strong aversion towards being detected and subsequently eliminated by the pack. As she cast her gaze upon Elena, a profound realization washed over her - an awareness of the remarkable bravery that resided within her companion. Zara experienced a peculiar intuition compelling her to place her trust in Ethan. An overwhelming gut feeling eclipsed her doubt. She possessed the unwavering certainty that Ethan would never permit any harm to befall her.

"Okay," she replied, her gaze shifting between her companions. Throughout her life, there have been only two individuals whom she has truly relied upon. Could you please explain its functionality?

Elena eagerly expressed, her voice brimming with enthusiasm, "You must devise an additional persona." Have you ever harbored a desire to embody someone else?

Zara pondered deeply, investing considerable time and effort into her thoughts. The concept of assuming another identity had never truly crossed her mind. She consistently embraced the unfavorable hand she had been dealt with.

Observing Zara's inscrutable countenance, Elena suggested, "Very well, shall we commence by determining a suitable appellation?"

Zara pondered aloud, "The name Brandie has always held a certain appeal to me." Ethan retrieved a sheet of paper and a pen from his belongings. Perplexed, she was bewildered as he meticulously transcribed the name onto paper.

"You shall assume the identity of Brandie Downs," he remarked, observing her gaze fixed upon the document. "I am required to fabricate certain legal documents, ensuring the accuracy of the information presented," he remarked, accompanied by a mischievous wink. She averted her gaze, sensing warmth spreading across her cheeks.

Elena, with a mouthful of her sub, pondered aloud, "What would be your ideal hair color?"

"I was under the impression that vampires consume blood," Zara exclaimed, her hand instinctively rising to her mouth in astonishment. Amid her apprehension, she fervently hoped that her words had not caused any offense to Elena. However, to her relief, Elena responded with a hearty laughter, dispelling any lingering doubts.

"We rely on blood for our survival, yet we are also capable of consuming food. Remarkably, we can gain weight from it," Zara chuckled. Elena, with her thoughts focused, inquired, "What is your desired hair color for the future?"

Zara pondered aloud, expressing her long-standing admiration for the captivating allure of strawberry blondes.

"Yes, indeed. Additionally, I believe that opting for blue eyes would be a favorable choice, as it would provide a striking contrast to your vibrant green ones," Elena casually interjected. Now, let us delve into the backstory.

Zara arched her eyebrow inquisitively. The user's response is a concise expression of confusion.

There will inevitably be individuals who express an interest in getting acquainted with you," Elena remarked, her eyes rolling in a gesture of mild exasperation. "Should you choose to establish a friendship with them, it becomes imperative to provide satisfactory responses to their inquiries.

Elena responded with a sympathetic smile, inquiring, "Is it true that you indeed had a boyfriend?"

As an integral component of my newly adopted persona, I must express my sincere apologies, my dear acquaintances. This persona was meticulously crafted to deter unwanted attention from the male gender.

Ethan ceased his scribbling and directed his gaze toward them. Zara pondered deeply, contemplating her circumstances. She reflected on her upbringing as a virtuous young woman in a middle-class household, only to face an unexpected pregnancy. The repercussions were severe, as her parents, disapproving of the situation and burdened by the father's lack of commitment, made the difficult decision to cast her out, leaving her to navigate life's challenges independently. As she gazed down at her yet-to-show baby bump, a frown formed on Zara's face, revealing the weight of her emotions.

"Ouch, Ethan, your words were rather harsh," Elena remarked, casting him a pointed look.

With a gentle touch, Ethan tenderly caressed Zara's arm. Her eyes met his. Zara, please accept my sincere apologies if my previous statement caused any offense. I intended it solely as an observation of a compelling backstory. You are currently expecting, a fact that cannot be concealed. Even in your alternate form, it is inevitable that your abdomen will undergo expansion.

Zara gracefully inclined her head, acknowledging Ethan's words. "It is quite alright, Ethan."

Elena interjected, seeking to alleviate the prevailing tension, "May I inquire as to when Brandie's commencement is scheduled?" Her voice exuded an unmistakable aura of excitement.

With a smile, Zara expressed her confidence in Brandie's ability to commence work the following day, despite her anxiousness. What would be the outcome if Nathan were to enter the scene? What would happen if they were to uncover her true identity? What if he had an intuitive perception that the baby belonged to him?

She was confronted with many questions to which she had no answers. Rising swiftly, she hurriedly made her way to the bathroom. Her body was undergoing a process of rejecting all the contents present in her stomach. Uncertain about whether her discomfort stemmed from nervousness or morning sickness, she pondered the cause.

"The euphoria of pregnancy," Elena's melodious voice resonated from the adjacent dining room while Zara found herself in a less pleasant state, her head resting near the toilet bowl.

Zara stood before the mirror, her gaze fixed upon her reflection. Her lustrous strawberry-blonde locks cascaded in flawless waves. The cascading layers gracefully frame her face. Adjusting to the realization that it was indeed her would require some time.

"Are you prepared?" Ethan inquired, cautiously poking his head into the bathroom for the hundredth occasion. With a nod, she acquiesced and trailed behind him as they entered the bustling main area of the diner. Fortunately, she had the privilege of collaborating with Elena on this particular day.

That would assist in alleviating her nervousness to some extent as she commenced the task of meticulously wiping down the bar counter. As she commenced the daily ritual of unlocking the diner, she couldn't help but reflect on the countless occasions she had performed this task. The sensation of her absence seemed fleeting as if she had never truly departed.

Elena gently reminded her to remember her backstory, assuring her that doing so would ensure a positive outcome.

The moment they engaged the lock and illuminated the "open" sign. One of their frequent patrons, Billy, entered the establishment. He possessed an unwavering certainty in his ability to identify her. She stood, her breath held.

Elena emitted a playful giggle as she uttered, "Tequila Billy?"

"Yes," he replied in a gruff voice. Have you acquired a new romantic partner? Does this development imply that Zara will not be returning?

Zara's eyebrow arched inquisitively. He failed to recognize her. She dedicated a full year to gradually thawing the icy demeanor of this weathered gentleman and engaging in a conversation with him regarding the challenges he is facing concerning his former spouse, and assisting him during the difficult period following the demise of his beloved canine companion. She possessed a steadfast conviction that he would perceive beyond the facade.

"Hello, my name is Brandie," she murmured with a hint of shyness.

"Good day, Brandie. I have developed a fondness for Tequila, and I kindly request that you continue to provide it in abundance, as it will not pose any issues for me," Billy articulated with a slight slur. With a slight smile, she procured a shot for him. She retrieved a glass of water, as it was customary for him to consume water with his shot. Billy was convinced that it held the key to salvaging his liver.

"How did you anticipate my desire for water?" He raised an eyebrow inquisitively.

In a state of panic, she cast her gaze upon Elena, who observed her intently. "That was how my father would consume it. I suppose it has become an ingrained practice," she fabricated. She observed Elena's relaxation and mirrored it herself.

Billy emitted a hearty chuckle. "He appears to be a commendable individual. May I inquire about your place of origin, Brandie?" His gaze subtly traversed her figure.

"I have recently relocated to this area from Virginia," she declared, expressing her gratitude for the carefully crafted backstory provided for her. Previously, she could not fabricate falsehoods spontaneously.

"What was the reason behind your presence at Woodsedge?" he inquired, seizing the opportunity. Swiftly consuming the water. With a wordless gesture, she extended the bottle, inquiring if he desired another. He assented.

Billy nodded in understanding as the somber revelation unfolded before him. It was a tale of heartache and resilience, a narrative that resonated deeply within his empathetic soul. The protagonist, a young individual grappling with the harsh realities of life, found solace in the confines of their vehicle. Forced to leave the familial abode, they embarked on a journey of self-discovery, propelled solely by their automobile's limitations.

It is plausible that you engaged in misconduct that led to your dismissal. He proceeded to consume another alcoholic beverage. With seamless precision, Zara deftly poured the liquid into the glass; her movements were executed flawlessly without hesitation.

"I found myself with child, but unfortunately, their approval was not forthcoming," she uttered in a subdued tone. The authenticity of her emotions resonated in the timbre of her voice. Billy offered her a melancholy smile.

Despite the current distressing circumstances, it is important to acknowledge that the presence of a child is undeniably a profound and cherished gift. With a gentle expression, he showed her a faint but genuine smile. A sympathetic smile. Here she stood, a solitary and attractive young woman, carrying a child devoid of companionship and being the object of sympathy from the local inebriate. Could her life plummet any deeper into despair?