Chapter 21

Carrie’s POV 

  “Please give me a moment with my daughter.” my mother said, dragging me away from Ryder and prying eyes.

  “You cannot accept him as your mate, Carrie.” she insisted, and I felt my blood boil through my veins. Was she being serious? The moon goddess had paired me with Ryder for a reason! How could she expect me to ignore that? 

  I took a deep breath and tried to calm myself down, but my mind was racing with thoughts of Ryder and the danger he was in. I knew my parents were trying to protect me, but I couldn't shake the feeling that they didn't understand.

  “Carrie, your mother is correct. We don't know him at all. He could be anyone.” my father agreed with my mother. Not that I could expect anything different since they never disagreed over anything. 

  "MOTHER, FATHER! Please," I said, trying to reason with them. "Ryder is trying to help us. He's willing to put his life on the line to protect us. He kn