Daniella’s POV
I couldn’t believe Rylan would even think about denying me, so what if I wasn’t their fated mate? I deserved to be the Luna of Creek. I was the daughter of the Beta. Not only did I have strength, I was a damn good fighter, and everyone here at this pack adored me. Well, all except stupid Eliza. Nobody liked her, but Luna Lara and Alpha Morgan were panicking that they couldn’t find the dumb hoe. She wasn’t important anyway.
Yesterday was my birthday, and instead of being swept off my feet by my new mates, I was being attacked by some filthy white wolf that Rylan was now obsessed over. I had to find out who she was and get rid of her before she took my mates and my place as Luna away from me. I was not going to let anyone get in the way of me being the Luna of Creek.
I had dreamt of being Luna since I was tiny; nothing meant more than having that title.
As I left the woods and headed back home, I decided I would find Rio and get him to have a word with Rylan. He needed to know that I would be their chosen mate no matter what. Rio, Enzo and Edward would agree with me. Enzo and Edward stood by the main door and looked deep in conversation.
I approached Enzo and Edward with a confident smile, masking the turmoil and determination swirling inside me. As I drew closer, their conversation seemed to falter, and they turned to greet me with surprise in their eyes.
"Hey, Enzo, Edward," I began, trying to sound casual despite the urgency burning within me. "Do you guys have a moment to talk? I need your help with something important."
Enzo and Edward shared a glance before nodding in agreement, their expressions cautious but attentive. I knew they were loyal to me and would support my decisions.
"I need your help to show Rylan that I am the rightful Luna of Creek," I concluded, my voice firm and unwavering. "Will you stand by my side and support me in this?"
Enzo and Edward exchanged a knowing look before turning back to me, their expressions resolute. "Of course, Daniella. We will stand by you and help you in any way we can," Enzo declared, his voice steady and reassuring.
“He seemed pretty sure that she was our mate, though,” Ed said, suddenly doubtful.
“She attacked me and ran off. That doesn't show a good Luna material for this pack; even if she is found to be your fated mate, it would be best to reject her.” I paused, my mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions.
"We need to think this through carefully," Enzo spoke up, his voice steady but thoughtful. "If this white wolf truly attacked you and showed disregard for our pack, then maybe it's best to reconsider her position as a potential mate."
Edward nodded in agreement, his brow furrowed in deep concentration. "We can't let anyone threaten the safety and stability of our pack, Daniella. If this white wolf is dangerous, we must take action," he said, and I felt my heart race.
“What's going on here then? Where's my invite to the party?” I glanced towards the familiar figure of Rio, observing how his gaze met mine with devotion. An idea sprouted in my mind, and I realised I had to act quickly.
"Rio," I called out, my voice soft yet commanding. "I need to speak with you privately." I rushed to him and placed my hand on his. Rio's eyes lit up with curiosity and concern as he caught my gaze, but he nodded in agreement. Pulling me closer, he planted a kiss on my forehead.
"Rio, I need you to understand that my position as the next Luna is being threatened," I began, my voice shakey. "This white wolf, whoever she may be, threatens our pack and our future. I need you to stand by me, to reassure Rylan and the others that I am the rightful Luna of Creek."
Rio's expression softened, "Daniella, you are my chosen mate, my Luna," he replied, his voice filled with conviction. "I will stand by your side, protect you, and ensure your rightful place as Luna is secured." Hugging him tight, I looked up at him. “I knew I could rely on you. I love you, Rio. I think you should mark and mate with me tonight.” I said, licking my lips seductively.
“Oh, is that so? You can think again. Don't you even dare, or I will rip your throats out.” Rylan's sudden interruption cut through the moment like a thunderclap, his voice filled with anger and disapproval.
I turned to face him, the warmth of Rio's presence lingering around me as I saw the fury in Rylan's eyes. His words struck me like a physical blow, his rejection and condemnation ringing in my ears like a harsh truth I couldn't bear to hear.
“Rylan.” Rio started to say, but Rylan shoved his brother to the ground, growling and snarling.
“Enzo, Ed, do something,” I screamed.
Enzo and Edward, caught off guard by the sudden escalation, hesitated for a moment, analyzing the situation. Their loyalty to the pack, and understanding of its traditions, compelled them to intervene, but they were torn. The balance between supporting a fellow pack member and respecting the sacredness of a mate bond, especially one as rare and powerful as a true mate bond, left them conflicted.
"Rylan, let's talk this through," Enzo finally said, stepping forward with a calm, yet firm, disposition. His voice acted as a temporary balm, slightly easing the tension that hung thick in the air.
Edward moved to help Rio up, casting a disapproving look at Rylan. "This isn't the way," he muttered, though it was clear his admonition was directed at both brothers, not just Rylan.
Rylan, his chest heaving with unreleased anger, turned his gaze from Rio to me. "Daniella," he started, his voice less aggressive now but imbued with a cold firmness, "You must understand. The mate bond is not something to be manipulated or twisted to fit personal ambitions. If you truly care about this pack and its well being, you will respect what I say.”
“But, as I have said many times now. I am the best fit for future Luna.” I was determined to fight for what was mine.