REJECTION EMBRACE by Forthearts

LIANA.

I woke up before dawn, as always. No one else in the house stirs this early, but that was by design. If I let the sun rise before I'm on my feet, my mother would make sure I regret it. I slipped silently from my bed on the cold floor-my room was barely a space in the attic, but it was all they allowed me.

With my bare hands, I scrubbed the kitchen floor, every creak and sigh of the house around me was a reminder that my family's slumber depended on my silence. My stomach growled, hollow as always, but I bit my lip. Hunger was something I've grown used to. I got to eat only when they decided there was food left over, and most nights, that meant nothing at all. My body ached from work, and sometimes, I wondered if all this would be easier if I could just shift like everyone else. But I can't. I'm wolfless-a constant source of their shame and their disappointment.

I paused, just a moment, to stretch out my back, but the sound of footsteps snapped me to attention. My mother's voice sliced through the quiet.

"Why are you moving so slow, Liana?" Her voice was sharp and unforgiving, and I instinctively shrinked. "Do you think we have all day for your lazy attitude?"

I stammered out a reply, trying to explain that I'd nearly finished. But my words only fueled her anger, and before I could duck, her hand connected with my cheek. The sting radiated down my face, it was a familiar burn.

"You ungrateful child," she spat her eyes narrowing with disgust. "You think this house runs itself?"

"No, ma'am." My voice was barely a whisper, and I kept my gaze lowered, knowing better than to meet her eyes.

When I finished in the kitchen, I was sent outside to the garden, hands raw as I dug up weeds. By the time I was done, the day was already slipping away. I looked around for a moment, hoping for a break, but that was when I spotted my father and brother standing by the doorway, waiting. My father beckoned me over, his face a mask of impatience.

"Hand it over," he said gruffly, nodding towards the small coin purse I kept tucked under my dress.

I opened it with trembling fingers, holding onto the few coins I had earned at the market yesterday. I'd hoped, just for a moment, that maybe I could keep something for myself. But I knew better than to defy him. Reluctantly, I dropped the coins into his hand.

He didn't even look at me as he counted the money, nodding with satisfaction. "Good. And remember, girl, don't think you can ever hide anything from me. Every coin you earn goes to this family."

Or rather, to my brother, who stood there smirking, knowing he'll be the one to enjoy the reward.

Later that evening, I was scrubbing dishes when I heard muffled voices from the other room. My parents were speaking in hushed tones, but the words were just loud enough for me to catch bits and pieces.

"...old man wants a young bride..."

"...Liana... it's about time she serves a purpose..."