The Luna Queen's Rebirth (Ellie and Dominic) novel Chapter 12

Chapter 12 
“Not anymore,” I said simply. 
Mom’s eyes went to the bandage under my shirt collar. “What happened to your shoulder?” 
“Just a training accident. It’s nothing serious.” 
My stepfather emerged from his study. “What’s the commotion?” he asked, noticing my bandage. “Are you hurt?” 
“She says it’s just a training accident,” Mom explained. 
“Well, these things happen,” he said dismissively. “You can’t expect to get stronger without a few bumps.” 
I stared at him, remembering how differently he’d reacted when Vivian got so much as a paper cut. 
“Actually, there’s something I wanted to tell you both,” I said, my voice catching slightly. “I’ve decided to stop chasing after Dominic. I have a new dance partner for the mating ceremony.” 
Mom’s face creased with concern. “Oh honey, what happened?” 
My stepfather’s interest was piqued. “A new dance partner? Who?” 
“His name is Ryan. He’s training to be a healer.” I took a breath, feeling tears well up in my eyes. “I’ve decided to step aside and let Vivian and Dominic be together. They accepted each other’s invitations today.” 
For a moment, there was silence. 
Then my stepfather’s expression changed entirely. “Vivian and Dominic?” he repeated, and I could practically see the dollar signs in his eyes. 
“Now hold on,” he said to me, but his tone was distracted. “You shouldn’t give up so easily. But if Vivian and the future Alpha King are really…” 
Just then, we heard the front door open. Vivian’s voice called out, “I’m home!” 
“In here!” my stepfather called back, excitement barely contained. 
Vivian appeared, practically glowing with happiness. “Did Ellie tell you the news?” 
My stepfather gave me a half–hearted look. “Vivian, you shouldn’t have interfered-” 
But his heart wasn’t in the scolding. The moment Vivian started gushing about Dominic accepting her invitation, his expression transformed completely. 
“We’ll need to get you a proper dress,” he said, already making plans. “Something befitting a future Luna.” 
I watched them talk, feeling like I was seeing my family clearly for the first time. Mom looked torn between concern for me and excitement for Vivian. My stepfather had completely forgotten about scolding anyone. 
They were already planning Vivian’s future as Dominic’s mate. 
The realization stung. I’d always thought their concern for my love life was genuine. 
But now I could see the truth. They cared about the status and power that came with being connected to the future Alpha King. 
“I think I’m going out for dinner,” I said suddenly. 
“Oh, but I was going to make your favorite-” Mom started. 
“That’s okay. I already have plans.” 
I pulled out my phone and texted Ryan: Still want to grab dinner? I could use some good company. 
His response came back immediately: Absolutely. Want me to pick you up in an hour? 
“Who are you going to dinner with?” Vivian asked. 
“Ryan,” I said. “My new dance partner.” 
I headed upstairs to get ready, leaving my family to their excited planning. Sarah followed me. 
“Are you okay?” she asked as I started looking through my closet. “You seem upset.” 
“I’m fine,” I said, then paused. “Actually, I think I’m better than fine. For the first time in years, I feel like I’m making choices for myself.” 
Since I didn’t plan to be with Dominic in this life, why not pursue my original dream? I could become a powerful healer like Ryan. 
I also remembered that Ryan had never found his mate in my past life. Dancing with him at the mating ceremony might help me avoid being fated to Dominic again. 
Sarah helped me pick out a dress – something that made me feel confident. When I looked in the mirror, I barely recognized myself. There was something different about my expression, something stronger. 
Ryan was waiting for me when I came downstairs. 
“Wow,” he said, looking genuinely stunned. “You look incredible.” 
“Thank you,” I said, feeling myself blush. 
We decided on a nice restaurant downtown – somewhere we could talk without interruption. 
But as we were being seated, I noticed a familiar group at a table across the restaurant. 
Dominic and his usual crew. 
Marcus spotted us first and gave an exaggerated wave. “Hey there, Ellie!” he called out loudly. 
I felt Dominic’s gaze like a physical weight. When I glanced in his direction, his expression was dark and brooding, his jaw clenched tight. 
I was done letting his moods dictate my evening. 
If Dominic wanted to glare, let him.