Chapter 23 Xavier POV Regan . It cant be but the proof was right in front of me . Not only was it right in front of me but the unthinkable had happened . Instead of being grateful for the mate bond , or happy about the fart that we were mates , she had tried to reject the both of us instead . My wolf was furious , even as I glanced towards my brother who looked equally dumbfounded by what had occurred . We had never thought that our mate might ot want us or that she might try to reject us . We were too arrogant to consider the likelihood that somebody might not want to be mated to us . She just rejected us , Xander said dumbly , still staring in the diction Regan had left Our mate doesnt want us She does I growled back , refusing to believe it . Shes just afraid of the pack and maybe … I hesitated but Xander glanced at me sharply . We werent exactly nice to her , were we ? We picked on her and we hurt her a few times I admitted shamefully , so its no wonder shes not ecstatic about the mate bond . She doesnt have her wolf yet either so she cant feel the bond from her side . Both of us were clad in party clothes , but our suits were a rumpled mess . I had gone out looking for my mate again , this time picking up the scent when I had been about to turn back . I didnt have any knowledge that Xander had been following behind me . I shot him a sharp look filled with anger and he merely stared back , shrugging unapologetically . So , what do we do ? We cant just pretend it didnt happen . My wolf flat out refuses to even entertain the idea of Isabelle now Xander added , frowning at the floor . Mine already refused I reminded him rolling my eyes , although Im glad you didnt attempt to bring up that harebrained scheme of yours to Regan . She would have laughed in your face I snarled . Whatever he snapped . I concede that Im an idiot . Were expected back at the party Xavier he growled , reminding me , but his eyes were still staring in the direction that Regan had left My wolf wanted to go after her too , but we had our other duties to consider . Like the chosen mate that none of us desired any longer . This was sure to cause cause some anger not just with our parents , but with the pack as a whole . We started to walk back , our heads bowed low . I tried to tidy my hair while Xander did the same . As we headed towards the marquee , we ran directly into Isabelle who had been outside looking for us . I raked my gaze over her , my lip curling in revulsion . She was dressed up to stand out in a vibrant red dress that drew the eye , a long slit along the leg . I was immediately turned off by her . As she went to grab my hand , my wolf surged to the surface , angry that somebody besides our fated mate would even attempt to touch us , letting out a low and furious growl . Xanders head whipped towards me and I saw the panicked expression on his face , but it was too late as thad already given myself away . Xavier Isabelle stammered , hastily pulling her hand away as my eyes darkened and I glowered at her . Whats wrong darling? Have you forgotten who I am meant to be ? You are meant to be announcing who is your Luna tonight remember she continued in a coaxing tone . I could see my mother and Father beginning to approach from a small crowd of people , detaching themselves , attempting to get to me and Xander , with looks of concern on both their faces . Unbidden the words came out . I refuse to take you as my chosen mate or Luna I declared out loud as she stared at me , the blood draining out of her face , a hand going to her open mouth in shock as the crowd all gasped I declare that my mate , and only my fated mate will become Luna of this pack . Xander stepped beside me , a grim expression on his face . It was me to make his decision , and he knew it . He no loliger had a choice . I stand with Xavier and I too , declare that only my fated mate he glanced disapprovingly at Isabelle who was beginning to cry and sob as if her heart was broken , will become the Luna of this pack and be marked by me . Boys my mother shouted , but I wasnt finished . Not by a long shot . I could see the Alphas from the other packs watching , bearing witness . If we were to do this , then we had 1/3 12:19 Fri , Jan 10 Chapter 21 to do it now , before it was too late , and Mother stopped us . I took a deep breath and Xander did the same , both of us reading each others minds , Our fated mate is none other than Regan Lourdes we shouted , Xanders voice mixing with mine as we yelled it out loud enough for the whole pack to hear . Stunned expressions . My mother put a hand to her chest tumbling slightly while my father rushed to put his arm around her . Isabelle was shaking her head in denial , her eyes narrowing as she stared at us pleadingly . She was visibly shaking , tears trailing down her cheeks . Although I felt sorry for her , I would not be swayed from the path I had chosen to take . Whatever I had to do , I would get Regan to accept me and ander for her mates . No she whimpered No , tell me it isnt true . Theres no way that Regan could be mates with the both of you she sobbed . She is I stared Isabelle down and then looked at my mother and father , who looked like stiff wooden statues . From now on Regan will be treated differently as befitting a potential Luna of the pack . I am willing to fight for my right to bear the title of Alpha and I wont hesitate to duel if it comes down to it . My mothers eyes filled with tears . Xander cleared his throat I am also willing to fight , for the right to take my fated mate as Luna , Silence . One of the Alphas bearing witness began to clap , looking at us with approval . I admire your bravery in going against your familys wishes , he said , looking between us and our parents and I must say that I find your willingness to fight for what you believe is your right , admirable . I hear witness to this statement today , he said as the other Alphas began to nod in agreement and will have no problems writing a statement to that effect if it comes down to it . My mother looked as though she was about to collapse . All her carefully laid plans , her manipulation , her conniving , had all gone down in smoke around her . Isabelle looked desperately around her , but nobody offered her any assistance . I could see Heather moving from the back of the crowd before Isabelle turned and took off running , sobbing loudly . What have you done ? my mother gasped , my father , helping her to remain upright . Do you have any idea what youve just ruined ? her voice was rising as she shrieked at us . I did what I had to do , I told her quietly , what you forced us to do . We are our own men Mother , and will not abide by your wishes . The contract between us and Isabelle is null and void . My voice brooked no arguments . You may inform Beta Johnathon yourself or we will do it for you . Father , if you desire . I will willingly fight you for the right to become Alpha , although I wish it hadnt come to this . My father looked at me sharply and then shook his head , glancing tiredly at my mother . No , my , sons , he said quietly I will not withhold your titles from you . Not for doing something you feel is only right . If this is what you want . What you desire , he said tightly , Then the Alpha titles will continue to be yours on the provision that you continue to do what is right for the pack . He had always been a fair man , my father . Xander and I nodded . My mother sobbed . My father sighed and turned her around , beginning to lead her to the pack house . I looked around at the crowd and forced a smile to my lips . Lets get this party started and celebrate the dawn of a new chapter . Please , celebrate our birthday and the upcoming ceremony of our Luna . Mutters from the crowd as the pack obediently begins to head into the marquee , grabbing drinks and food from the passing omegas Well , that could have gone much worse Xander exhaled , looking relieved that it was all over . I rolled my eyes Have you forgotten that our Luna rejected us ? pointed out sharply . He fell silent- Lhad a feeling getting Regan to become our Luna or our mate , was going to be more difficult than I could imagine . Title: Cherry Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance, Modern, Romantic Status: ongoing In "Cherry" by CrushReel, Ivy League freshman Aaron Milton, 17, embarks on a unique journey of love with Linda, 34, a spirited former wild-child navigating her return to college for a fresh start. As their paths intertwine, Aaron finds himself immersed in a world beyond textbooks, where lessons of the heart take center stage. Exploring themes of age disparity and personal growth, "Cherry" delves into the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Aaron's youthful innocence contrasts with Linda's life experience, creating a dynamic that challenges societal norms and perceptions of love. The narrative unfolds with tender moments and poignant revelations, painting a vivid picture of two souls entwined in an unconventional romance. What sets "Cherry" apart is its authentic portrayal of human connection and emotional depth. Through CrushReel's masterful storytelling, readers are invited to witness the evolution of Aaron and Linda's bond, rooting for their happiness amidst societal expectations. Discover the allure of "Cherry" and immerse yourself in a tale that transcends age barriers and embraces the power of love. Experience the enchanting world of "Cherry" available to read online at CrushReel.