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.

Will we eat good food?” I

That day, my stepmother was unusually kind and even gave

to a small cabin in the mountains. Three intimidating werewolves

talking about kidnapping

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

behind my father, watching as a hulking werewolf

in his hand, green

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

won’t hold you up!” she

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28

The Past

the money that would finally

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my father and stepmother were unusually cheerful. My stepmother even cooked extra meat and didn’t

my father hurried them through breakfast and urged them to leave for their ‘business. He

mountains. Less than ten minutes later, Thrice entered the room again, this time with

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

him, I was

His nose was high and straight, and his lips–thin and pressed- hinted at something both distant and guarded. His eyes, dark and bright like

He’s so handsome.

thought upon seeing

in the morning, starving … Get food ready for me and the boys!” Thrice barked, nudging Caden and the girl forward.

immediately grabbed them, pulling them in, while my stepmother nodded and

look away

a boy

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

She spotted me still lingering outside