Chapter 4

The blessing ceremony for my son should have been a moment of joy, but as Elder Catherine Walsh raised her weathered hands over his tiny form, I felt the familiar ache of emptiness where maternal love should have bloomed. The community hall buzzed with pack members offering congratulations, their voices blending into meaningless noise as I watched Alexander stand beside Savanna, his hand resting possessively on her lower back.

"Moon Goddess, bless this child with strength and wisdom," Elder Catherine intoned, her ancient voice carrying the weight of countless ceremonies. But when her eyes met mine across the bassinet, I…