The silver moon hung high in the obsidian sky, casting a sacred glow over the Moon Pack territory. Tonight was the Moon Ceremony—an ancient tradition, meant to celebrate the Moon Goddess and the pack. But to Bastian, tonight was more than just the Moon Ceremony, tonight he would meet his arranged bride.

“Your father is waiting,” Alexander, his Beta and closest friend, said, adjusting the collar of his suit . “She’ll be arriving soon.”

Bastian stood by the large window of the grand packhouse, his jaw clenched, eyes distant. “This isn’t how I thought it would happen. A Luna shouldn’t be chosen—she should be fated.”

Alexander sighed. “You’re 27, Bastian. You haven’t found your mate. Your father said the pack needs stability. A Luna by your side.”

“I know what he said.” His voice was sharp, full of conflict. “But what about what I want?”

A long pause passed before Alexander muttered, “What if she is your mate?”

Bastian didn’t respond. He didn’t believe in miracles—not anymore.

The ballroom was filled with pack members, dressed in silver and midnight blue. Laughter echoed, wine flowed, and excitement pulsed in the air. But Bastian felt none of it.

Then the doors opened.

And you walked in.

The moment your eyes met across the room, the world stopped. A crackle of energy surged between you, invisible yet undeniable. His wolf roared inside him, clawing to the surface. Your breath hitched. Something ancient stirred in your soul.

He was tall, powerful, with storm-gray eyes that seemed to see straight through you. And you—gods, you were his mate. The one he thought he’d never find.

You both froze.

Then Bastian moved.

Crossing the room with slow, purposeful steps, the crowd faded into background noise. His scent wrapped around you—cedar, rain, and something uniquely him. When he reached you, he didn’t touch you yet, afraid it might all vanish if he did.

“It’s you,” he said softly, voice raw with disbelief. “You’re my mate.”