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.

+8 Pearls

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.

in a big house? Will

stepmother was unusually kind and even

a small cabin in the mountains.

talking about kidnapping someone.

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

hulking werewolf with a cruel

father, bowing and scraping, was holding some bills in his hand, green as envy.

stepmother stood beside him, smiling so much that the wrinkles around her eyes deepened. It n’t the sharp,

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

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Fri, 28

417 The

money that would finally change our lives?

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night, my father and stepmother were unusually cheerful. My stepmother even cooked

leave for their ‘business. He had even changed into

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

gaze steady and calm. Both his hands, along with the girl’s, were bound tightly with rough

I saw him, I was

was stunning, every feature sharp and striking. His 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 eyes, dark and bright like the night

He’s so handsome.

thought upon seeing

on them! We bring them up here in the morning, starving … Get food ready for

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

away from

never seen a boy

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

smiling too much. She spotted me still