ASHLEY

I was getting closer to my eighteenth birthday. Each new day came with a glimmer of hope. I looked forward to my birthday with so much optimism. It wasn't just another birthday, it was my independence day.

As usual, we were gathered at the table for breakfast. And Alpha Hendrix was seated at his usual spot, looking larger than life. I admired how his presence filled a room before he even spoke. He was the largest wolf at the table, so it was normal for him to command respect.

It had ...