Counterback of the Despised Luna by Diana West

Chapter 417 The Past

My thoughts wandered, and I found myself recalling the first time I saw Caden.

It was when I was ten years old.

I had lived in the slums as far back as I could remember.

Our home had bare walls, and hunger was a constant companion.

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My father was a gambler. Whenever he lost, he’d come home drunk, taking his anger out on my mother and me. He’d beat her until her skin was black and blue. She endured it all just to protect me—even if it meant more pain for herself.

One night, I woke up, and my mother was gone.

I was only five. I cried out, “Mom, I want Mom…”

My father’s response was brutal. He slapped me hard. “You’ll never see your mother again! Crying all the time … you’re worthless! No wonder I lose money every day!”

I fell ill from the stress. When I recovered, a heavily made–up she–wolf had appeared in our home.

“Here’s your new mother. Call her that!” my father barked, pointing at her.

I cried, “No, you’re not my mother!”

The punishment that followed was fierce.

I quickly learned to watch my words and act sweetly toward her.

At ten, my father told us he had a big business deal lined up. If it went well, we’d be rich.

we really live in a big house? Will we eat good food?” I

unusually kind and even gave

days later, my father took us to a small cabin

them talking about kidnapping someone.

bring them here, you keep watch over them. If the business goes well, you’ll get your share!” one

father, watching as a hulking werewolf with a cruel

some bills in his hand, green as envy. His smile was wide but

much that the wrinkles around her eyes deepened. It n’t the sharp, bitter expression she

you up!” she said with a grin, her voice sweet

1/3

Fri, 28

The

the money that would finally change

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cheerful. My stepmother even cooked extra meat and didn’t

father hurried them through breakfast and urged them to leave

three of them went to the cabin in the mountains. Less than ten minutes later, Thrice entered the room again, this

His face was a mask of indifference, his gaze steady

I was

His nose was high and straight, and his lips–thin and pressed- hinted

He’s so handsome.

thought upon seeing Caden.

bring them up here in the morning, starving … Get food ready

them in, while my stepmother nodded and hurried to the kitchen.

look away from

never seen a boy like

we ate, Thrice and his men didn’t leave. They stayed in the large house, drinking and smoking. Caden and the

stepmother came out, smiling too much. She spotted me still lingering outside and shoved me roughly.