2#02

2

The searing agony is etched in my memory. I recall struggling for air, and then the darkness consuming me as I drew my final breath.

However, the details of my rescue elude me.

I awoke with a start, sitting up in my bed. Panting heavily, I surveyed my surroundings and realized I was back in my Luna residence.

How did I end up here?

I distinctly remember Ragnulf imprisoning me before carrying out my execution. Isn't that right?

Rising from the bed, I gazed at my reflection in the mirror. A scar across my left breast caught my eye. As I touched it, vivid recollections of my murder flashed through my mind.

What transpired? How am I still alive? Was I rescued by someone?

The door swung open, startling me - my heart raced, fearing Ragnulf's men had come for me again.

Instead, my personal attendant, Thea, entered. She carried a tray laden with food and beverages, carefully setting it on the nightstand.

"Many happy returns, my lady." She bowed slightly. "May I remind you that the Alpha is hosting a celebration for your birthday at the Lunar Hall. Which gown would you prefer?"

I looked at her incredulously. "Thea, my birthday was several months ago."

Her expression grew puzzled, her eyes betraying uncertainty. "My Luna, I'm quite certain it's today."

I regarded her warily. How could an event I attended months ago be happening today? Then I noticed Thea was wearing the exact outfit she had on that day.

If my hunch was correct, she had prepared pork chops and chicken noodles for me. To verify, I approached the food tray and lifted the covers.

To my astonishment, I was correct.

This wasn't a typical meal for me, but that morning, my mate had specially procured it to please me.

"We haven't had pork in the pack for weeks. Where did you obtain this?" I inquired.

"My Luna, Alpha Ragnulf acquired it from a neighboring pack. He's aware of your fondness for pork and wants to ensure your happiness."

I blinked in disbelief. Is this déjà vu? Am I dreaming?

I shook my head. If it were merely a dream, I wouldn't have this scar on my chest. Right?

So, was this a second chance? Had the Moon Goddess heard my plea?

"My Luna, are you alright?"

I blinked, forcing a smile. "Yes, I am. Please fetch the sparkling midnight gown I selected yesterday."

Thea bowed and exited the room.

As I gazed into the mirror, I pondered. If I had indeed traveled back in time, it meant the Goddess wanted to grant me another opportunity. I examined the scar again, recalling the dagger's penetration, Jeanette's smirk, and Ragnulf's indifference.

Whatever this is, I'm determined not to squander it. This time, I won't allow Jeanette to emerge victorious.

When the party hour arrived, I was adorned in a dazzling black gown. I hadn't seen Ragnulf all day due to his pack meetings. Tonight would be our first encounter since my awakening.

My heart pounded as I entered the hall and saw him, his gaze filled with wonder and admiration instead of hatred and contempt. His attire matched what he wore last time, further confirming my journey to the past. Still, my heart raced as I approached him, fully aware of his role in my death.

"Happy birthday, my love," he said. As I neared him, he attempted to caress my face for a kiss, causing me to recoil in fear.

His brow furrowed in confusion. "Is everything alright, my love?"

I feigned a smile and nodded. "Yes, just a bit nervous."

He smiled reassuringly. "There's no need for nerves, my love. This celebration is all for you."

I maintained my fake smile as I faced the crowd. He was right. This party was designed to distract me while he sneaked into Jeanette's room.

About an hour later, Ragnulf presented me with a gift. Before he opened it, I already knew its contents.

It was a rare blue moonstone pendant that elicited gasps and admiration from everyone.

I turned around, gathering my hair up so he could fasten the necklace around my neck. As he did so, I recalled how he had violently torn it from me when he arrested me for pushing Jeanette.

"You don't deserve something this exquisite," he had said then, before giving it to Jeanette to wear.

After donning it and turning to show the guests, Ragnulf again attempted to kiss me. This time, I allowed it, clenching my fists as I stiffened and endured his lips on mine.

To succeed, I must play along.

The party continued, celebrating me while guests piled gifts into a mountain. On this day months ago, I was so engrossed in receiving presents that I hadn't noticed Ragnulf slipping away.

This time, I kept him in my peripheral vision, and the moment he tried to leave, I delegated gift-receiving duties to my personal maid and followed him.

He headed outside the hall towards his horse carriage, and just as he was about to enter, I called out.

"Leaving so soon?"

He froze and turned to me, his eyes wide with surprise. "Oh Darling," he chuckled nervously. "I just needed to see someone quickly."

"Someone?" I arched an eyebrow, "Who could be more important than your mate on her birthday, Ragnulf? Who