The rain began to pour once Stella began her journey to the secluded area in the woods where the Blood Moon Ball was being held.

She could hear cars coming up behind her, some would stop and some would try to see who it was walking in the monsoon with only a blue cloak on and a basket of fresh fruit for an offering.

"Oh, it's you..."

One of the pack members said as she waved them on. Even if she found her mate, which she doubted, he would have to take her away from all of this. All of the pain of losing her father and dealing with her step family.

"Hey!"

She didn't know the voice so Stella was hesitant to turn around.

"Excuse me, Miss?"

Stella peeked out from behind her hood and eyed the older gentleman driver who was smiling at her from the slowing car.

"Yes?"

"Would you care for a ride?"

Knowing it would be ignorant to say no, Stella shrugged, but was stunned when the back door swung open.

"Please, do get in. We're headed to the ball," the driver said, "I'm Niles."

"I am Stella," the young girl said when she slipped into the back seat and came face to face with the handsome, rugged giant of a man sitting there glaring at her, "I'm..going to the ball, as well."