Prologue
Six Months Ago
Seraphina
"Again," my father encourages.
My foot flies out in another powerful kick to the pad he's holding, this time his arm is forced back from the impact.
"Better. Again."
We do this until my body is slick with sweat and I'm panting to catch my breath.
"That's enough for today, Sera. You did well."
I blow out a frustrated breath. "I'm still too weak to take a grown wolf down when it counts."
He clucks his tongue. "It's not about you being able to take someone down; it's about being strong enough to make them pause so you can get away. You'll hit them where it counts and run."
"Yeah, yeah. I hate being so small and weak."
My mama scoffs. "You're not weak. You're the strongest wolf in the pack."
It's my turn to scoff. "Hardly does any good when no one can know, therefore, I'll never be respected. Heck, if anyone knew that I wasn’t a Beta, I'd be locked in the dungeon with the others."
She sighs. "I know, darling. I won't ever allow that to happen. If anyone finds out about you, use your powers and run. Never stop."
"I know, Mama. I'll run just like you've taught me."
"Come, I made your favorite breakfast."
"You mean my favorite?" my father asks rubbing his stomach.
Mama laughs. "I suppose so, but these are for our beautiful daughter."
I take a deep breath, breathing in the heavenly scent of my mama's cinnamon honey-buns. She rarely makes them, usually only for special occasions, but today's just a regular Tuesday. Nothing worthy of this decadent treat.
"What's the occasion?"
"Just a reminder of how much you are loved. Cinnamon and honey are the scent of home. Always remember that, my darling girl. Never forget."