Bound by faith: the rise of a rejected mate

orward to the yearly mating ceremony, but I found it to be an anxious occasion. I looked around the crowd, hoping to see someone I knew or feel some comfort, but my heart was thum

louder so that everyone could hear. "I, Dennis Bruce, Storm Pack Alpha, decline to be my partner Melissa Roger." I felt hundreds of eyes on me, burning with astonishment and sympathy as the audience gasped. My entire body froze. My heart broke into a million pieces, and the world around me became hazy and unclear. "B-but why? I stumbled, speaking in a scarcely audible whisper. Dennis smirked. "Observe yourself. Weak, miserable, and not worthy to be my partner. Someone worthy of Luna, someone stronger, is what I deserve. Not you. His remarks cut like a blade through me. Tears were starting to form in my eyes, but I was determined not to let them fall. Not in this place. Not in front of all the people. I turned and ran without saying anything more. I had to flee, even though I had no idea where I was heading. I ran into the forest, tears clouding my vision, and the sounds of the muttering crowd faded behind me. Deep in the woods was where I finally found myself, but I had no idea how far I had run. I was surrounded by the comforting smell of earth and pine, but it didn't bring much solace. I broke down on the woodland floor, sobbing into my hands as my legs gave out. "How is this possible to happen? With a pounding heart from embarrassment and rejection, I muttered to myself. "Why me?" Dennis had discarded the bond without giving it much thought, even though it had seemed so strong and genuine. I had the impression that the rejection was weighing heavily on my chest and that I was having trouble breathing. A snarl sounded across the trees, startling me out of my reverie. My heart was racing when I looked up, but this time it was because of fear. A lone wolf emerged from the darkness; its eyes gleaming menacingly. It was bigger than I was, and it had a sneer on its face. My whole body went paralyzed. I lacked the strength to repel it. With its razor-sharp claws aimed at my neck, the rogue sprang for me. With almost no time to respond, I raised my arms in self-defense. I was forced to the ground by its weight, and I could feel its sharp claws tearing through my flesh. I let out a scream, attempting to ignore it, but it was too powerful. I knew I wasn't going to have much time left when I felt its hot breath on my neck. I was r