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.

a big house? Will we eat good food?” I asked, hopeful.

stepmother was unusually kind and even gave

small cabin in the mountains. Three intimidating

talking about kidnapping

them here, you keep watch over them. If the business goes well, you’ll

father, watching as a hulking werewolf with a cruel sneer slapped my

father, bowing and scraping, was holding some bills in his hand, green as envy. His smile was wide but forced.

around her eyes deepened. It n’t the sharp, bitter expression she usually

Thrice. Don’t worry, we won’t hold you up!” she said with a

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417 The Past

the money that would finally

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my father and stepmother were unusually cheerful. My stepmother even

urged them to leave for their ‘business. He had even changed into a

three of them went to the cabin in the mountains. Less than ten minutes later, Thrice entered the room again, this time with two werewolf children–one boy and one girl–who looked to be about my

the girl. His face was a mask of indifference, his gaze steady and calm. Both his hands, along with the girl’s, were bound tightly with rough twine, leaving them helpless.

moment I saw him, I was drawn to him.

skin was pale, almost luminous, contrasting with his thick brows and dark, expressive eyes. His nose was high and straight, and his lips–thin and pressed- hinted at something both distant and guarded. His

He’s so handsome.

was my first thought

eyes on them! We bring them up here in the morning, starving … Get food ready for me and the boys!” Thrice barked, nudging Caden and

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

away

seen a boy like

drinking and smoking. Caden and the girl were locked away in a

smiling too much. She spotted me still lingering outside