Before the Ball
I looked in the mirror, the long green gown falling down my body in a loose way. I had never much cared about my appearance. Well, I mean beyond the normal amount of wanting to look presentable. Tonight was different though. Tonight was the night that I would meet my other half. My mate.
It was tradition that once a year on the full moon in February, wolves would gather from all over for a ball. It would take place at different packs each year and this time it was at mine. The Scarlet Moon pack was a civil pack. We had jobs and stability, you could do or be whatever you wanted. The leadership roles were only for the Beta and Alpha but you could always challenge them. Not many won that fight however.
‘I think you mean none’ My wolf Autumn told me.
‘Whatever’ I replied. I finished putting my makeup on and stood back to look at me. My long chestnut hair was falling down in waves close to my hips. The subtle makeup I’d done emphasizing my dark hazel green eyes. I grabbed my pearl earrings and started putting them in.
“Sarah! It’s almost time to go!” My mother hollered from the foot of the stairs.
“One moment!” I hollered back and grabbed my matching purse before walking out of my room.
I make my way down the stairs and to the living room. My parents were sitting there in formal clothing. My father had his hair in a slick back hairstyle while my mother had a loose formal bun with curled pieces falling out.
“Oh dear,” My mother gasped and came to hug me. “You look like a princess!” My mother exclaimed softly before letting me go.
I giggled and looked at her and then my father. “I’m scared.” I was playing with my finger tips and fidgeting in my spot.
“I know honey but you can’t stay home like last year.” My father chimed. He wasn’t wrong, last year I got so nervous that I vomited before heading out. My parents had decided that I wasn’t ready and needed to wait another year.
“I know it’s just-“ I look up trying to find my words. “I’m only 19. I’m not ready to find my mate and have children. What about college?” I babbled trying to find excuses.
“Darling,” My mother caresses my cheek. “No one is forcing you to have babies right away. Take your time, enjoy your mate.” She moves to kiss my father’s cheek.
“Everything will be alright pumpkin.” My father smiles while looking at me and I nod.
‘You’ve got this Sarah’ Autumn chimes in enthusiastically.
‘So do you Autumn’ I grab my jacket and head out with my parents to the pack house.
