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 asked, hopeful.

That day, my stepmother was unusually kind

took us to a small cabin in the mountains. Three

overheard them talking about kidnapping someone.

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

watching as a hulking werewolf with a

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

her eyes

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

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28 Mar

The Past

money that would finally change our

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stepmother were unusually cheerful. My stepmother even cooked extra meat and

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

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

taller than 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

I saw him, I

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 sky, seemed to

He’s so handsome.

first thought upon

We bring them up here in the morning, starving … Get food ready for me and

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

away

seen a

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

too much. She spotted me still lingering outside and shoved me