The Public Humiliation
A hush settled over the group as her father, flanked by her mother, stepped forward, lifting a hand for silence.
“As you all know,” he began, his voice carrying powerfully across the space, “we have been blessed with two daughters, but only one can lead the pack. Today, we’re here to announce that Seraphine has been chosen as your future Luna.”
The pack broke into applause, some even cheering. Isla’s breath caught. She could barely process his words before her gaze fell on Seraphine, who was standing a few paces behind their father, her hand intertwined with Kael’s. The look on her sister’s face was a mixture of triumph and satisfaction, each glance toward Isla a dagger of mockery.
Desperation clawed at Isla’s throat. She forced her way through the crowd, her voice shaking but resolute. “Father,” she called out, stepping forward, “I’m the elder twin. I’m supposed to be the rightful Luna.” She looked out at the crowd, seeking support, but found only blank stares, a few skeptical glances, and Seraphine’s smug smile.
Her father’s gaze hardened. “Isla,” he said, his voice low, warning. “Seraphine is more suited to lead. She’s stronger, more respected. The choice is clear.”
Isla’s heart twisted painfully, the humiliation setting in as her father’s words echoed across the gathering. She felt every eye on her—judging, dismissing, pitying. “But…I’m the firstborn,” she whispered, struggling to keep her voice steady. “I’ve trained just as hard, done everything—”
He cut her off with a sharp gesture. “Enough, Isla. Don’t embarrass yourself or this family any further. Seraphine has proven herself. This is for the pack.”
Seraphine’s voice rang out, laced with mock sympathy. “It’s not personal, Isla. Some of us were just meant for greatness.”
The crowd murmured approvingly. Kael looked down at Seraphine with open admiration, and Isla’s heart splintered as she watched him press a kiss to her sister’s forehead, as if sealing the betrayal.
The weight of it all crashed down, the realization sharp and bitter. She’d always been an outsider, a placeholder, tolerated but never truly wanted. Her family had betrayed her, choosing Seraphine to lead—to take everything Isla had dreamed of.
Swallowing hard, she turned away, her shoulders hunched as she forced herself to leave the courtyard. But as she did, her mother leaned close, her voice a venomous whisper, meant only for Isla.
“We only ever needed one daughter to rule—don’t make this harder than it has to be.”
