The Tasks of the Moon Goddess

Chapter 8

Author's note: The picture is the recreation room.

***Trigger warning*** this chapter contains a rape. I will put another warning before it begins.

Today is my birthday. The last few weeks flew by. Gabriella had to stay after class nearly everyday for remedial help. I didn't even know she was performing so poorly. Training was a breeze. I've made some great improvements. Alpha Viktor ok'd us to start sparring. He said two more weeks and we should be able to join the regular training sessions.

"Guess what," Gabriella said in the changing room. "I invited William, Trent, Adam and Zander to your birthday party.

"That's an easy way to meet them," I said.

"Plus you're the birthday girl so they have to say hello," she said teasingly. "Maybe Sparks will fly."

"I'm with Scott now," I said. "Maybe after I get my wolf tonight sparks will fly with him."

"Don't close yourself off. You never know," she said "Besides, Zander is a total babe. I think you'll like him. He's totally your type."

"Well, right now I like Scott," I reiterated.

"Yeah but nothing's happening with him," she said. You haven't seen any signs."

"Could we not talk about this now," I said looking around. "Anybody can hear us. How are things with you and your lover boy?"

"Really good. We have such a special connection. I can't wait for you to meet him. Just promise me you'll keep an open mind," she pleaded.

"What? Does he have like eight legs, or something?" I asked.

"No, it's nothing like that," she said. It's just... well... you'll see," she said hesitantly. "I invited him to your party so you'll get to meet him tonight if he comes."

What happened?" I asked. "He wouldn't actually commit.

"No. He said he'll think about it," she said.

"That doesn't sound like a yes to me," I said.

"You never know. He's very busy," she said.

*****

That night I wore a gradient, smocked strapless, mini dress with a rainbow tie dye print, no bra or underwear. I paired that with black ballet flats. I wanted something easy to change in and out of when it was time to shift.

Sofia did my hair and makeup with simple eyeliner, mascara, and eyeshadow using the same colors as my dress with rose gold matte lipstick. My hair she did with an updo leaving some ringlets hanging down.

As soon as I got downstairs I was approached by a guy with a crew cut, hazel green eyes with gold flex in them, a button nose and full lips. I paused for a minute before saying, "Cullum? What are you doing here?"

"I heard you were visiting the Shadow Moon pack and I wasn't going to let you go without a birthday gift from your big brother," he said.

I gave him a hug. "It's great to see you. How have you been?" I asked.

"I've been good. You know, traveling the world and sowing my oats. I'll be starting school next week." He said

"That's excellent-" I said before he interrupted.

"Listen, I met someone very special to me and I would like you to meet her," he said. "Are you coming home for Christmas?"

I hadn't even thought of that. If you want me to, it would be my pleasure," I said.

"I'm not going to keep you from your guests. Enjoy your party," he said, giving me another hug.

Next I was approached by a curly haired redhead with freckles on his face. He introduced himself as Adam. Adam was a total bro. Everything was happy birthday bro, try this punch bro, you look nice bro, and I immediately crossed him off my list. If the Moon Goddess would stick me with him, it would be official that she hated me.