Ella's life becomes all about revenge After her pack was destroyed, she made it her mission to get her land back and make those responsible pay. But everything changes when Desmond, a ruthless Alpha, forces her into a mate bond. Bound to him against her will, Ella fights the strong pull of their connection. Desmond, known for his cold nature, thinks the mate bond will break her. But as their rivalry turns into something more intense, they both start to realize that some bonds are too strong to ignore.
Chapter 1 A RIVALRY IGNITES.
Ella's POV
The cold wind bit at my skin as I stood at the edge of the forest, gazing into Darkmoon Territory. This land had once belonged to my family, but now it was under his rule. The mere thought of it twisted my gut with a mix of anger and frustration.
"Ella, are you sure this is the right move?" Lena, my Beta and closest ally, asked softly, her brown eyes filled with concern as she studied me.
I adjusted the strap of my dagger and met her gaze. "It's not about whether it's the right move, Lena. It's about showing Desmond that he can't keep pushing us around."
"He's dangerous," she warned, her tone serious. "Challenging him like this could get us killed."
"I know," I replied, keeping my voice calm. "But if we don't stand up to him, he'll think we're weak. And I won't let that happen-not to my pack."
Lena let out a quiet sigh but nodded. She knew arguing wouldn't change my mind. This wasn't just about pride. It was about survival.
The wind shifted, bringing with it the scent of wolves. My senses heightened, and I knew we were getting close to the heart of Darkmoon Territory. Each step felt heavier, the tension thickening the air around us.
"Stay close," I whispered, and Lena nodded, her body stiff with readiness.
We entered a clearing, and there he was.
Desmond Vance.
He stood with the same arrogance that always seemed to surround him, his icy blue eyes locking onto mine with a knowing look. He didn't seem surprised to see me. If anything, he looked more amused.
"Ella Armand," he said, his voice dripping with mockery. "What a surprise. What brings you to my territory?"
I clenched my jaw but forced myself to remain calm. "This ends today, Desmond. You've been testing my borders for weeks, and I've had enough."
He raised an eyebrow, his smirk widening. "Testing your borders? I prefer to think of it as... keeping you on your toes."
Lena growled low behind me, but I didn't take my eyes off him. "Enough games. If you want a fight, we settle it at the Blood Moon Festival."
Desmond's smirk faltered for just a moment before he chuckled softly. "You want to challenge me at the Blood Moon Festival? That's bold, even for you."
"It's the only way this ends," I replied firmly. "Two weeks from now. Just you and me. No tricks. No ambushes."
He studied me for a long moment, his face unreadable. Then he nodded. "Fine. Two weeks. But don't expect mercy, Ella."
I turned without another word and motioned for Lena to follow me. My heart raced in my chest, but I didn't let it show. Not in front of him.
As we walked away, deeper into the trees, Lena spoke, her voice low. "Do you think he'll play fair?"
"No," I said, shaking my head. "But it doesn't matter. We'll be ready."
Lena fell silent beside me, but I could feel her unease. Two weeks wasn't much time, but it would have to be enough. Desmond might think he had already won, but he had underestimated me before. This time, I'd make sure he regretted it.
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