The Forsaken Alpha

Ellie's POV 

I turned eighteen today, which is a big deal in our pack. In our society, turning eighteen is the time for our coming-of -age celebration where the Alpha gets to choose his mate. Most girls can't wait for this day, bursting with joy. For me, however, there are signs of anxiety with only a sprinkle of optimism. I am Ellie, the low-ranked omega wolf. Carrying the burdens of my dead parents, I am adopted into this pack. I have no relatives here, but I have always had one friend who had my back, and it's a boy and his name is Daniel. 

Daniel is more than a childhood friend. He's the Alpha of the Silver Crest pack and, in a fresh turn of events, he wants me as his mate. Although we described one another as brother and sister growing up, this feels very surreal in this instance. I'm an omega, an orphan, so there's no way I would have thought they could choose someone powerful like him. But here I am, stepping up with courage for whatever the ceremony has in store, even if a section of me is frightened of what everyone else will think of me.

The occasion taking place this evening is in honor of this selection, although I can feel the burden of disapproval already. As I make my way across the hall, I am the subject of audible whispers.

"She's just an orphan. "What does he see in her?" One of them whispers.

"Daniel could've had anyone. "Why would he choose her of all women?" another male voice joins in.

I try to brush them aside, but it's proving very difficult. Those words are painful, but they will not spoil this day. Daniel cares for me and that is sufficient for the time being.

Out of nowhere, I heard a voice I was familiar with. "Ellie! Hey! What are your deep thoughts about?"

It's my roommate, Kara. We have been together through thick and thin, and she never fails to bring me a smile, a cheerful word.

"I was just thinking..." I replied, looking down to avoid her gaze.

"Are you concerned about tonight?" Kara questions and I can feel her analyzing me.

I nod, feeling a wee bit foolish. "Yeah, I suppose I am. It's just...... Well, Daniel and I are worlds apart. He's an Alpha, and I am, well, you know me."

Kara gives me a quick pat on the back. "Ellie, I mean you more than just you." If Daniel can appreciate that, why can't you? "It is all, I repeat, all about you."

There is no denying that her words have some effect, but I cannot shake off the butterflies completely. I know she's right; I just need to be able to convince myself of it. I breathe deeply, trying to breathe out the frightened part of my mind. The night will be majorly important for me and I will have to deal with it come what may and, more importantly, do it without fear.