Anna Brown thought she was a normal girl in a normal world. But things become not-so normal when she stumbles upon a guy passed out on someone's lawn. 

He is Ray Pierce, the Alpha's son of the Bloodclaw pack. Sick of being controlled by his wolf's desires and duties, Ray is adamant about not taking over his father's position. Thus, he wants to win a wish from the Moon Goddess in order to free himself.

A Luna would make him more susceptible to accomplish his plan, so he blackmails Anna to be his mate during the tournament. However, things won't be easy since Anna struggles to get the approval of his pack as she helps Ray fight against the Vagabonds.

***
"You brought the girlfriend, good job."
Wait, did he just say…
"Girlfriend?" 
"Yep, that's what the deal is about. There's an event happening and I need a—partner. That's where you come in. You need to act as my mate." 
Mate? As in, his lover?

The Beast Within is created by M. E. Jackson, an eGlobal Creative Publishing signed author.

THE Beast Within

“Anna, we…” Sam starts, but can’t seem to finish her sentence. I glance at her briefly before looking back at Ray.


“What do you mean I just need to act tough? Why can’t I just be tough?” I ask. “Do you think that’s something I’m incapable of doing?” 


His face pales at that. A part of me feels a pain in my chest knowing I’m the reason for it, but it’s quickly replaced by my rightful anger. I’m not in the wrong.


“No…Anna, that’s not what I meant. I know how I said it was bad, but I really…I really didn’t mean it like that.” He fumbles his words, something he’s never done in front of me. At least it tells me that he’s probably genuine.


However, I’ve learned over the years that anyone can say sorry. ‘Sorry’ isn’t a magic spell that rids all past grievances. Only time can heal, and that’s through the process of reflection. 


Chapter 35: Reflection