Chapter 2

The first rays of sunlight streamed through the window, waking Zoe from the most peaceful sleep she’d had in weeks. For a moment, everything felt like it always had - warm, safe, and full of promise. But today was different.

Today, she will change forever.

Zoe stretched, rolling out of bed, her limbs heavy with anticipation. She could still feel Nila’s presence, calm and reassuring, as though her wolf was resting patiently, waiting for the right moment to emerge. The excitement from last night lingered, but now, in the quiet of the morning, nervous energy buzzed beneath Zoe’s skin.

Downstairs, the familiar scent of pancakes wafted through the air. Zoe’s mother was already up, preparing breakfast as usual, even though nothing about today felt usual.

“Morning, birthday girl!” her mother greeted as Zoe shuffled into the kitchen. “Big day today. How do you feel?”

“Excited,” Zoe replied, grabbing a plate of pancakes. “And maybe a little nervous. Is that normal?”

Her mother smiled warmly, leaning against the counter. “Completely normal. I was a wreck before my first shift. But once it starts, you’ll be too focused on the change to be scared.”Zoe nodded, appreciating the reassurance, but a knot of anxiety twisted in her stomach. It wasn’t just the shift she was worried about - though the idea of bones breaking and realigning did make her stomach turn- it was the weight of what it symbolized. After today, she wouldn’t be a regular teenager anymore. She’d be a full-fledged member of the pack, expected to play her role in their complex world.

”I’ve got something else for you too. ” Her mom reached with both hands to her neck. Than she passes her a gold and a dark sapphire pendant. ”Oh. Mom. I can’t have this..” Zoe was shocked. Her mom never put away that pendant and now she is giving it to her. Her mom smiled warmly and hang the pendant on Zoe’s neck. „Honey. It’s time for you to take care of this. This is something very special. This pendant will protect you, as protect me and all the women before us in our family. But you have to promise me to never take him unless you will give it to your daughter in her eighteen birthday. Ok?” ”I promise mom” Zoe said firmly.

Before she could dwell on the thought, a sharp knock sounded at the door. It swung open before anyone could answer, and Sara burst in, her blonde curls bouncing as she skipped into kitchen.”Hello misses Elizabeth! Mmm. It’s smells delicious. Happy birthday, Zoe!” Sara practically sang, holding up a small gift bag with a grin. “I couldn’t wait any longer! I had to come see you before everyone else got here.”

Zoe laughed. “You’re early! The party isn’t until this evening.”

Sara rolled her eyes, dropping into a chair beside Zoe. “Oh, please. Like I was going to sit around all day waiting. Besides, today’s a big deal! Eighteen and finally shifting? You’re going to be the star of the night. We need to make you look…well, more than just ‘ready’ - you need to be unforgettable.”

Zoe raised an eyebrow, half-amused and half-wary, but Sara only grinned wider, already assessing her from head to toe. “Your hair could use a little volume, and maybe a touch of shimmer for your eyes - something that’ll catch the moonlight.” She tapped her chin thoughtfully. “And we’re absolutely finding you the perfect dress, something that’ll turn heads and remind everyone that you’re the one to watch.”

Zoe laughed, rolling her eyes. “I didn’t realize my first shift came with a beauty checklist.”

Sara nudged her playfully. “Trust me, by the time we’re done, even the stars won’t shine as bright as you.”

Zoe grinned, though a nervous flutter stirred in her chest. “No pressure, right?”

Her mother set down a pitcher of juice, smiling fondly at them. “I’ll leave you two to get ready. Don’t forget, we’ve got guests arriving soon.”

As her mother left the room, Sara leaned in with an exaggerated whisper. “Okay, spill. Who’s coming today? I need to know if I should put on extra mascara or not.”

Zoe shook her head, laughing. “You’re ridiculous.”

Sara gasped, mock-offended. “I’m practical. A girl’s gotta be prepared, you know? It’s not every day that half the pack shows up for a party.”

Zoe smiled, but her thoughts drifted to more serious matters. “Yeah, well... the Alpha’s sons might be there.”

Sara’s eyes widened. “Dominic and Nikola? The heartthrobs of the Blue Mountain Pack? Tell me they’re coming.”

Zoe shrugged, toying with her fork. “Probably.We know each other like forever. Their dad’s the Alpha, and everyone expects him to make an appearance, even if he doesn’t usually come to these things.”

The mention of Alpha Philip brought a slight heaviness to the air. Even Sara, usually lighthearted and bubbly, grew serious. “Yeah, my parents were talking about him last night. They say he’s changed a lot since... well, since his mate died.”

Zoe nodded. The rumors about Alpha Philip had been swirling for months. He had always been a strong, ambitious leader, but ever since his mate’s tragic death, something had shifted in him. He had grown more distant, colder, and whispers of his growing obsession with power were impossible to ignore.

“He’s not the same,” Zoe murmured. “There’s something off about him now. I just... I don’t know.”

Sara leaned closer, lowering her voice. “Do you think it’s true? That he’s been looking for a way to... I don’t know, enhance his power or something?”

Zoe shrugged, but the unease gnawing at her gut wouldn’t go away. “Maybe. I’ve heard things. But I don’t want to think about that today. It’s supposed to be a good day.”

Sara nodded quickly, sensing the need for a change in subject. “Right. Today is about you! And your epic transformation. Come on, let’s get you ready for your big night!”