Chapter 1 Applying for a Scholarship

On a bright June morning, I awoke in my suburban home just outside of Edinburgh, Scotland, with a knot of anticipation tightening in my chest. Little did I know, this day would mark the beginning of a life-altering journey.

As a seventeen-year-old, I toiled as the Administrative Assistant for my uncle's company, McTavern & Co. I hustled through each day, drowning in assignments that flowed in faster than the River Tweed. McTavern & Co. was no ordinary workplace; it was a family affair, and my uncle insisted I learn the ropes from the very bottom. So, I threw myself into every task, determined to prove my mettle. Surrounded by colleagues who knew my family's legacy, it was my relentless work ethic and humility that earned me genuine friendships.

My journey began back in high school as a part-time receptionist, forging connections as I climbed the ladder of corporate life. I wasn't just an employee; I was an asset, both to my coworkers and my family.

My thoughts often drifted to my parents, who had yearned for a child for what felt like an eternity. My mother had faced the agonizing struggle of conception, watching as friends celebrated motherhood in their late teens and early twenties. In our tight-knit community, daughters of the McTavern clan married their destined partners between sixteen and eighteen, welcoming their own offspring in their late teens or early twenties.

My parents adored me beyond words and would move heaven and earth to ensure my happiness. I was their pride and joy, a young lady filled with ambition and kindness. With an angelic face, long chestnut hair cascading down to my waist, and skin kissed by the sun, I embodied both inner and outer beauty. Not only was I a model of obedience and kindness, but I was also a brilliant student, graduating Suma Cum Laude with a BA in business administration from Edinburgh Napier University.

One evening, as I returned home, my mother called me over. "Bonnie, come here," she beckoned. A good daughter never hesitates, so I settled beside her. She showed me a newspaper advertisement for a scholarship to study in the United States, and excitement sparkled in her eyes. "You should apply for this," she urged. But I couldn't help but worry about leaving my parents behind.

As my father, Pop, entered the room, he heard my mother's plea. He looked more exhausted than usual, for he was the CEO of our family's largest oil export production business in Edinburgh. It had undoubtedly been a taxing day for him. He voiced his concerns about the idea, suggesting that I should follow the traditional path of marrying into our pack or a neighboring one.

My mother, Azalea, was having none of it. She envisioned a bright future for me, one that involved pursuing an MBA in the United States to help our family business thrive. Although Pop was clearly annoyed, he chose to remain silent, retreating to his favorite chair to light a cigar.

I couldn't help but approach my father, voicing my concern about his smoking habit. He reassured me, his smile warm and understanding. "Don't worry about what Mom says, Bonnie," he said, "I let her do what she thinks is best because, as you know, a happy wife is a happy life." We both understood the unspoken truth behind his words.

With a hug, I moved closer to the point. "Pop," I began, "do you think I should go to America for my studies?" My mind raced with the possibilities of learning fresh business models and innovative ideas in the land of opportunity. "It could be a chance to bring back new ideas and innovations to our company," I explained.

Pop, seeing my determination, agreed to support my decision, but he reminded me to be patient while waiting for the scholarship offer. He also mentioned the national Alpha conference two years down the line, where packs from around the world converged in Edinburgh on Summer Solstice for their annual werewolf run and conference. Pop harbored a hope that I might find my fated mate there.

My father was the most well-liked, respected, and kindest Alpha in the United Kingdom. A towering figure, he radiated strength and security. In his presence, I always felt safe and protected.

Two weeks later, I received the exhilarating news that I had been chosen for the scholarship to study in New York City. Preparations were set into motion, and my mother, the kindest Luna of all Lunas, prepared me for the fashion transition from the UK to the USA.

Fashion in the United Kingdom was worlds apart from the United States, where summers meant micro tops and shorts galore. My mother took me shopping, and we amassed a wardrobe worth a small fortune. "Bonnie," she said, "you're now equipped for your American adventure."

Meanwhile, Pop reconnected with an old friend, Cameron, who had attended school with him. He made a request that I stay with Cameron's family during my university years in the USA.

Cameron Rossen and my father shared a deep history. Their parents had been best friends, and the Rossen family had left Scotland for a brighter future in the USA. Yet, they returned every summer for the solstice ceremony, reuniting with their fellow werewolves for a national conference. Both men had fallen in love with their fated mates, and their life paths had diverged—one pair settled in the USA, while the other remained in Scotland. I inherited my Italian grandmother's golden complexion and angelic features, a testament to our family's diverse roots.

“Yes, it would be a pleasure to host Bonnie, she is no trouble at all."

Uncle Cameron welcomed the idea of hosting me with open arms, reflecting on the stark difference between my obedient nature and his own children's waywardness. It was evident from childhood; I had always been the one to share and give, even when my cousin Elise behaved less kindly.

As the day of departure drew near, anxiety gnawed at my heart. I packed my suitcases while my mother prepared thoughtful gifts and delicious treats for my new life in New York. As we left our home, friends and neighbors from our small town lined the streets, waving goodbye to me. I had always been well-liked by everyone who had the privilege of knowing me.

As we made our way to the airport, I remained quiet, pondering the uncertainties of the future. My mother, trying to console me, said, "Cheer up, Bairn! Before you know it, you'll be back home." But my mind was awash with questions. Would the Rossen family welcome me warmly? Could I bond with Uncle Cameron and Aunt Camille's children, Elise and Louis? What if Elise's jealousy caused problems? These anxious thoughts swirled in my mind as I waved goodbye to my friends, tears threatening to spill. I couldn't help but wonder if Callum, my best friend and the keeper of my heart, would patiently await my return.