I'm Everly, a werewolf living in a pack that never really accepted me. My days are filled with loneliness and contemptuous looks, but I have learned to endure in silence. Being the daughter of the pack leader hasn't made my life any easier. On the contrary, it has amplified expectations and disappointments. My father, Alaric, is a respected but ruthless leader, and he has always favored my brother, Kael, over me. This blatant favoritism has driven a wedge between us.
The sun was barely rising when I left our house, a large wooden building nestled in the heart of the forest. The fresh morning air was invigorating, but I knew the day ahead of me would be far from pleasant. As I crossed the yard, I passed several members of the pack who gave me cold looks, some whispering among themselves. I clenched my fists and lowered my head, accustomed to this silent hostility.
I headed towards the training room, a large open space where the pack members practice and prepare for possible dangers. Kael was already there, giving orders and demonstrating combat moves. The other werewolves listened to him with respectful attention. My brother had always been the prodigal son, the ideal heir in our father's eyes.
- Everly, you're late, as usual," Kael said when he saw me approaching.
- I'm not late, I retorted, my face impassive. Training starts in five minutes.
He shrugged his shoulders, a mocking smile stretching his lips.
- Regardless, we don't need you here. Why not go berry picking or do something useful for once?
The others snickered, and I felt my cheeks heat up with shame and anger. I didn't answer and headed towards the end of the room, training alone as usual. My movements were precise and fluid, the result of long hours of solo practice. Yet, I knew that no matter my skills, they would never be recognized by my father or brother.
After training, I decided to visit Luna, my best friend. Luna and I had grown up together, and despite the challenges in my life, she had always been there for me. His house was located at the other end of the village, a charming little house surrounded by wild flowers. When I arrived, I knocked on the door, and she opened it almost immediately, a wide smile lighting up her face.
- Everly! Come in, it's been a long time since I've seen you.
I smiled back and entered. The warmth of his home and his warm welcome were always a comfort to me.
- Sorry, I've been busy with... everything," I said, sighing. How are you ?
- Good, she replied, leading me into the kitchen. I made some tea, come sit down.
We sat at the table, and she poured me a steaming cup of tea. His look became more serious.
- How are things going with your father and Kael?
I shrugged my shoulders, trying to appear indifferent.
- As per usual. Kael is always the favorite, and my father only sees his exploits. Nothing new.
Luna took my hand and squeezed it gently.
- Everly, you are so much stronger than you think. Don't let them bring you down. One day they will see your value.
I smile weakly. Luna's words were comforting, but it was difficult to remain hopeful. We continued to talk about everything and nothing, and for a moment I forgot my worries. But this tranquility was short-lived.
On my way home, I ran into my father, Alaric, in the entrance hall. He was an imposing man, with piercing eyes and a rigid posture. He fixed me with a cold gaze.