Episode 2

I stopped in the clearing, surrounded by the tranquility of the forest, but inside I was a mess. Rage and sadness intertwined in my chest, turning my heart into a whirlwind of emotions. Desmond's words echoed in my mind, striking my thoughts like whiplashes. Despite the storm that invaded me, I knew I couldn't give up; I had to stay strong.

Tomorrow, Desmond would assume leadership of the pack, an event anticipated by many. However, his attitude and speech, full of bravado, raised doubts about whether he was ready for that role. The expectation grew, but so did the uncertainty about his ability to lead with wisdom.

That night, as the pack gathered to celebrate the ceremony, I decided to take refuge in my cabin, seeking a moment of peace. But tranquility did not come. Suddenly, the door burst open and a wolf burst into my space, with a malicious look that I instantly recognized. He was a lackey, and I suspected that only someone close to my sister Sarah could do something like that. Sarah had always resented me for my connection with Desmond.

"What are you doing here?" I asked, stepping back.

"I'm just following orders," the wolf replied, approaching with an unsettling smile. "Behave and act like an obedient wolf, and you'll live a night you won't forget."

Panic invaded me, but I wasn't going to let myself be intimidated. With a quick gesture, I raised a leg and kicked him in his private parts. His expression changed from surprise to pain, giving me the opportunity to dodge him. Without thinking about the consequences, I ran into the forest, which welcomed me with its dark cloak. I didn't stop until I was sure I had left my pursuer behind.

The next morning, when I thought nothing could get more complicated, I realized that news of the incident had spread quickly. Suddenly, the door burst open and Desmond entered the room. His face, full of emotions, seemed to express more than any words.

"Rachel!" he shouted, his voice resonating. "How dare you bring dishonor to our pack? You are shameless," he affirmed, lifting me up with one hand.

"Please, Desmond, let me explain, the situation is not as you think," I said, trying to catch my breath.

"Aren't you ashamed to have tarnished my reputation? Did you really want to ruin my succession ceremony?" he growled. "How can a wolf from such a vile lineage as yours be my moon?" he added, squeezing my neck.

"I haven't done anything wrong," I exclaimed. "A wolf broke into my room and tried to take advantage of me. I promise you I wouldn't do anything that would affect your reputation. All this was Sarah's idea."

Desmond looked me up and down, and contempt appeared on his face. It was as if he saw me not as a person, but as a worthless object.

"Do you dare point to your sister as responsible for your actions?" he said, tightening my throat more. "Kneel down and beg her for forgiveness, or you will regret it."

I stared at him, determined not to submit. Holding my head high, I faced him. I couldn't let his distorted perception affect me.

"I'm not going to kneel before you, Desmond, because I haven't committed any wrong," I replied firmly. "Why should I apologize for something that is completely false?"

Desmond suddenly released me, causing me to fall to the ground. He took a step back, creating distance between us, and began to pace around the room, reflecting frustration. Then, with a gesture of discouragement, he brushed the hair from his forehead and, when he looked at me again, his expression became intense.

"Oh, damn you, Rachel!" he exclaimed, hitting the wall. "I give you a second chance to retract. I want you to beg me, on your knees, to spare your life."