Page 2 of Amaris Rejected (Stone Mountain Shifters #2)

Amaris

I’ve never been one to complain or wallow in self-pity. In fact, I am the problem solver for those in my station within the pack. As an orphan living in the unmarried females’ cabin, I’ve never had a steady home life. The older females care for the younger ones; as the older ones mated,they left me behind.

I am the only motherless wolf in the pack, meaning I have no ties, lineage, or anything. I feel insignificant, and my rank is even in question. I am also known as a latent wolf, reaching my 21st birthday without shifting.

I see and feel my wolf, Lyra, within me. We communicate daily, yet she refuses to shift. Not even the Alpha's commands can bring her to the surface. This has shocked everyone and left me as an outcast. My counselor believes my latency stems from the trauma of being abandoned at birth. Who knew infants could be so aware?

My status and lack of family make me very reticent, and I keep to myself, which is unusual for a wolf. Typically, we are very social creatures who enjoy touch and companionship. I’ve never had that connection with any of my pack.

"Amaris, come to my office to see me," Alpha Black mind-links me. He is a kind, older Alpha who really cares about the pack, so I immediately pack up and leave work to head to his office. I’m one of the advanced trainee healers in the medical office.

"Yes, Alpha! " I’m on my way," I reply.

When I arrive, I knock on the large wooden door of his office.

"Come in, Amaris, and have a seat," he gestures to one of the guest chairs in front of him. Sitting in the other chairs are Beta Rodgers and Dr. Shannon. I join them, sitting down obediently while waiting for them to speak.

"Amaris, as you are aware, we’ve been trying to get your wolf to manifest," Alpha Black states.

I nod in agreement.

"I’ve reviewed your medical file again with Dr. Shannon," he says, tapping the thick file on his desk. "As we discussed earlier, you have no medical history because your parentage and ancestry are unknown, Amaris. You are a foundling. The pack doctors have thoroughly examined you over the years and found no physical or mental explanations for your latent condition. However, your counselor believes you may have experienced trauma during or shortly after your birth or developed abandonment issues that could be contributing to your latency.

“Your wolf is with you; she just hasn’t shown herself physically," he continues.

"That's correct, Alpha. Lyra speaks to and advises me. I have all my wolf capabilities, like speed and enhanced hearing and sight, and she helps me heal from injuries quickly. She just doesn't come out. I don't know why, and I’m not sure if she knows why. She doesn't talk about it," I said.

"Well, you’re 21 years old now," Alpha Black continues, "and we believe sending you to the Annual All Packs Mating Meet-and-Greet would be beneficial. We hope that with your wolf present, you’ll be able to sense your mate, and she might reveal herself. What do you think about that, Amaris?"

I’m stunned. "Alpha, I didn't think I was eligible to go because of my latent condition?"

"Once again, we think it could help your wolf to socialize. You've been somewhat reclusive, partly because you’re an orphan. This will be beneficial for you," Alpha reiterates.

"That's right, Amaris," Dr. Shannon interjected. "All the signs point to a healthy wolf. We need to encourage both of you to be more social, even if your mate doesn't show up this year. We think attending the gathering and having some fun with others your age will do you good."

"We’ve submitted your application to the council along with your medical records regarding your wolf's existence, and you’ve been conditionally approved," Alpha Black says with a smile.

"What's the condition?" I whisper.

"If you meet your mate, he’ll be informed of your latent condition immediately. He’ll have the legal right to refuse to mate with you because of it," he sighs. "However, don't let that discourage you. If that happens, there are many paths to move forward, and second-chance mates and choice mates are always possible. So, what do you think?"

I look at the three of them. Dr. Shannon beams at me. "I think this is a wonderful opportunity for you, sweetie," she says, "and I hope you’ll take it."

Alpha Black adds, "If you find your mate and move to his pack, you'll get an economical car and a generous monthly stipend that will be direct deposited into your bank account for one year. This is something we offer to all new matings. It ensures that you remain independent and safe in case you encounter any issues and need to return home. If he decides to come here with you, you both will work here, and we’ll handle everything as usual. What do you think, Amaris? Are you ready for an adventure?"

"Why not?" I swallow hard. "It seems I have nothing to lose." Famous last words?