Alpha Damien Replacement Mate

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d my own life to sort out. The hours seemed to stretch on endlessly. The moon hung high in the sky when the ceremony finally began. My heart pounded as I slipped into my gown, a simple ivory dress that hugged my body like a second skin. It was nothing compared to the dazzling gold ensemble Annabel had chosen, but I didn't care. Tonight wasn't about appearances-it was about the Moon Goddess's will, about finding my mate. I stood by the balcony, hoping for a moment of peace in the midst of the storm. The moon's silvery light bathed the packhouse in an ethereal glow, and I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath, trying to center myself. My wolf stirred inside me, restless, eager to find the mate she had been waiting for her entire life. Then, I smelled it. That scent. Warm, intoxicating, and utterly irresistible. It swept over me like a tidal wave, pulling me toward it. My wolf's excitement mirrored mine, a soft growl escaping her as I hurried toward the source of the scent. I was nearly there when I saw them. Jonathan. And Annabel. I froze, my stomach lurching. Time seemed to slow as I watched them on the far side of the balcony. Jonathan had his arms wrapped around Annabel, possessive and tender. And then-before I could process what was happening-he sank his teeth into her neck. The faint glow of the mating mark burned brightly into my vision, a stark confirmation of what I already knew. "No..." I whispered, my voice cracking. Annabel turned to look at me, a smirk curling on her lips. "Oh, dear sister," she purred. "Did you really think he'd choose you?" Pain exploded in my chest. My wolf howled in anguish, the bond that I had dreamed of for years now shattered beyond repair. Betrayal surged through me, and tears welled up in my eyes. I couldn't breathe. The world around me tilted, and before I could unleash my untamed power, a firm hand gripped my shoulder. I spun, meeting the piercing gaze of Alpha Damien. His presence was calm, steadying. He didn't say a word, but something flickered in his eyes-understanding, maybe even pity. I couldn't take it. I yanked away from him, shaking my head, and ran. My feet carried me through the hall, past murmurs and confused gazes, until I reached the sanctuary of my room. I slammed the door behind me and collapsed to the floor, the weight of the betrayal crashing down like a thousand thorns. My wolf whimpered, the ache of rejection overwhelming. I could