The Wrong Mate

Five years ago, Bella believed her world had illuminated upon meeting David, her mate. This realization brought her joy, enabling her to experience love and be loved, despite her lack of a wolf and inability to feel the mate bond. Today, this cherished dream has crumbled, revealing her happiness and aspirations as mere deceptions. After receiving David's message, Bella deliberately changed her bedsheets, disgusted by an act she found abhorrent. She confronts David and Lanny, calling them shameless. David dismisses Bella's outburst, ordering her to be quiet and to mind her manners, emphasizing her role as a housewife with no important work compared to his and Lanny's. Bella refuses to be silenced or forced, but Lanny shoves her down. Weakened by a recent miscarriage, Bella cannot retaliate and falls, experiencing sharp abdominal pain. She clutches her stomach, defiant. David looms over her, his imposing presence a threat.