Chapter One

Parking my car in his driveway I turned it off then started to cry, it was finally happening. Crossing my arms on the steering wheel I cried into them. He’s my brother and I left him, and now I'm finally back. Sniffling I got out of the car and made my way towards the front door of my brother’s house. A sense of fear and anxiety washed over me as I stood in front of the unfamiliar door. I know it’s been 9 years but he has to forgive me, right?

 

 Ringing the doorbell the seconds grew long and my tummy turned, I was getting uneasy. Fidgeting with my fingers some more tears escaped my eyes, and then I heard the door open. My hand covered my mouth ceasing sound from coming out. I looked up to see Darren’s best friend, he was also mine until I left. The tears only escaped easier as I looked him in the eyes. 

 

“I-I-I’m sorry, I’ll leave,” I croaked then turned around. Looking at the ground before I heard my brother’s voice, which would only made my heart sink.

 

“Darren, who is she,” I heard Logan ask which made my heart slow down, he doesn’t even remember me. Turning around I still had my hand to my mouth and I sobbed. I ran to my brother in the doorway and hugged him tightly, I miss my twin brother. 

 

“Darren.” 

 

At first he didn’t hug back but when I said his name he hugged back strongly. Relief filled me to the core as I was in the warm hold of my twin. He pulled back then took my hand pulling me into the warm house. The door shut behind me as I wiped my wet cheeks with the back of my hand. My brother released my other hand and looked at me unsurely.

 

“Why are you sad,” he asked quietly like he was talking to a baby made me smile, he always talks to me like that or did. It must be because he is adamant about being older even if it was only by minutes.

 

“Because I thought you hated me,” I admitted softly, and sniffled up the rest of my sob so I wouldn’t start again. Logan walked past me before grabbing my brother and pulling him into another room, I followed them but didn’t go in. Leaning against the wall I listened into their conversation.

 

“Who is she Darren,” Logan asked once again, he sounded clueless. I could almost see the smile on my brother’s face, which made me smile. 

 

“Logan, you honestly don’t remember your best friend, you even admitted to me you loved her,” Darren asked him, I blushed at the thought then quickly got over myself, he forgot me no way he still is the same Logan I left behind 9 years ago. 

 

9 years in boarding school, the worst 9 years of my life. I only left because my parents thought I was a bad influence on my brother, at the time I didn’t know any better and listened to them. My brother on the other hand begged and pleaded me to stay with him. Our genius parent’s thought that leaving a ten year old in a boarding school away from her family would be a good idea. It was because it was their good idea that they would not let me stay with my brother. Yet, if I had tried harder to persuade them to let me stay would everything had turn out different?

 

I should’ve listened to him, but here I am 19 years old at my brother’s house in England. While returning my attention back towards their conversation. I heard laughter in the room behind me. I was unconditionally drawn to it, but I found myself stuck where I stood unable to move.

 

“Darren, she’s not alive get over it,” Logan growled. I pulled my eyebrows together confused, of course I’m alive.

 

“It was a lie my parents told you Logan, she probably leaning against the wall listening to us, why don’t you ask her.”

 

I gasped quietly and frantically looked around for a place to hide, however, before I found a spot I saw the doorknob start to turn. 

 

 The door opened next to me allowing Logan looked right at me as soon as he stepped out. Letting out a nervous laugh I moved along the wall. My brother came out of the room also only he was smirking realizing he was right. I faced the front door because I could feel the energy coming from it, someone was coming. 

 

Darren’s and Logan’s eyes followed to where my eyes narrowed the front door. The door swung out revealing two girls; one was a pack member who I think is my Brother’s Mate, and another beautiful girl. Although I found her beautiful I couldn’t help but question her unconservative outfit. 

 

She was wearing a tube top that stops at her belly button and a pair of shorts that could also be classified as underwear. Looking away from her, I noticed my pack member was already hugging Darren. Ahh they’re mates for sure. I smiled at them and Darren smiled back, that’s when his mate finally noticed me. At first she looked hurt, probably because my brother was giving me a comforting look but then the hurt quickly morphed into love. 

 

“DARREN, IT’S HER OH MY LORD, SHE’S ALIVE,” Kayla screamed and I winced rubbing my ear. She released herself from my brother and leeched herself onto me in a giant bear hug. Kayla’s baby blue eyes that I envied searched my light lime green ones. Letting go of me she walked back over to Darren and smiled, a smile that reached her eyes. 

 

“Where is all of the other guys?”

 

     Her question confused me, how many people live here? Darren shrugged and walked away with Kayla. When I was alone with the unknown girl and Logan,  that was when I noticed they were also dating. 

 

    My heart sank and I looked over at them in a full make out session. Hastily I left the foyer and walked away to where I thought was the living room. I knew I made it when I found a giant flat screen TV, a large couch. and two recliners all of them were a light beige color. On the couch there was a guy reading, slowly I walked up to him and plopped down on the couch to be noticed. He looked up from his book and starred at my lime green eyes, they had that effect on people. I looked away then back, and he was still in a trance so I snapped. He snapped out of it, leaving him bewildered at his own stare.

“Who are you,” he questioned confusion lighting up his hazel brown eyes. It made me smile so I turned to him while moving along the couch. 

 

“Huh, oh, I’m Valerie Voss,” I told him and held out my hand for him to shake, he looked at it then at my lime green eyes again. He shook his head as if to clear it then shook my hand. I pulled away my hand and smiled at him. 

 

“I’m Nathaniel, Darren didn’t tell me he had a sister.” 

He bookmarked his page then he put down his book, turning his full attention to me. 

 

“I’m his twin.” 

 

I love my brother, I’m kind of sad that he would leave me for Kayla, but I didn’t care as long as he was happy, cheesy right? Nathaniel stared at me dumbfounded, probably thinking, ‘Darren has a twin sister?’ 

 

Smiling I studied him, he had a light tanned skin and hazel brown eyes that could be mistaken for honey, dark brown hair but not exactly black. He was hot, I had to admit but for some odd reason no one compared to Logan. Just forget about him already, he has a girlfriend, my brain told me, but my heart still thumped obnoxiously at the thought of him. 

 

“Um, does Logan have girlfriend.” 

 

“I don’t think so, why?

 

“You’re hot, why don’t you have a girlfriend,” I asked hoping he would not notice me changing flow of the conversation. He shrugged while smiling humorously. 

 

“It’s a secret, besides I just meet you I don’t want to scare you away.” 

 

He then leaned back into the couch and turned his face away from me acting cooly. My smile dropped from my face and I quivered my lip giving it that puppy dog effect. Which is ironic, I’m a werewolf not a dog. 

 

“But-But-But- I-I- y—you don- don’t trust-t- me-me,” I stuttered and felt a tear roll down my face dramatically I stared at Nathaniel through my glassy eyes and saw him literally melting away.

 

“Promise you won’t tell anyone.”

 

“I don’t have anyone to tell,” I admitted in a sad voice then we locked our pinkies in agreement and promise.

 

“I’m gay,” he said shyly, and my eyes lit up.

 

“I’ve always wanted a gay best friend!” 

My statement caused him to perk up, his smile automatically brightened. I scooted closer to him and reached for the remote, grabbing it I turned on the TV. Once it was on I started flipping the channels, when I saw the adultswim channel I was about to click it but Nathy grabbed the remote from me.

 

Feeling betrayed I looked at him in shock. Looking at him in that ‘oh no you didn’t’ look he got the point and moved away to another couch and flipped the channels. I gasped and ran over to him jumping on him wrestling for the remote; I grabbed it and was about to run away with it when he pulled me back and locked me under him then grabbed the remote, again. 

 

Putting on my determined face I struggled to get out of his lock, as soon as I did, I attacked him getting the remote. I took him by surprise so I easily ran away down the hall holding the remote mockingly in front of him. Smiling at my accomplishment I saw I was in the foyer again, where Logan and his not girlfriend were. They looked at me weirdly, I shrugged and stared at the remote. 

 

What am I supposed to do with it here? Turning away I saw Nathy coming towards me and I ran around the table that was randomly set in the hall. I pressed the pause button at him and he gave me the same weird look from two seconds ago.

 

“You can’t pause me Val,” Nathy pointed out on the verge of laughing. I laughed and kept pressing the pause button anyway. He started to walk towards Logan with his back to me and I found that as an opportunity and ran towards the living room, I made it half way when I was being dragged backwards. I kicked everywhere and held the remote closely to me, he’ll never get it. Dropping the remote I squealed, the remote! 

 

Nathy automatically dropped me on the floor and I crawled over to it, I reached for it but a foot stepped on it. Looking up I saw a Darren with a very amused emotion on his face. Standing up I looked over at Nathy who was sticking his tongue out at me, I did it back to him and he arched his eyebrow. I looked back over at Darren who was now on the couch flipping through the channels.

 

“What,” I squealed then shot Nathy a look saying ‘let’s team up,’ he got the message and we walked back to the front room. We both sat down on the floor and I got a piece of paper and a pen. 

 

“Okay, you get him to come after you by taking something he loves more than his Kayla.” 

With an evil grin on my face I began to draw the great plan, Logan looked over the couch at me seeing the face he knew by experience, I never did anything to him but to Darren. He smiled and joined us sitting to my right. Drawing a gaming console I saw Nathy’s grin grow. 

 

“So, Nathy, you will take his console and hold it out for him to get, he will run after you and you will not stop running, I’ll get the remote and watch TV, after Darren finally stops beating you up for touching  his stuff my show will be done.” Logan and Nathy both looked at me like I was crazy.

 

“What, no I want to watch TV.” 

 

Nathy crossed his arms on his chest. Ignoring him I went over to the living room to spy on my brother. I heard the front door open behind me but I didn’t pay any attention to it. From behind the couch I tried tickling him, but found none of the areas i tried got him ticklish. My smile slightly faltered as I realized, it’s been ten years, and even such a small thing had changed. 

 

 Feeling me stopped he looked over at me, but his facial expression quickly changed from concern to anger. I turned around to see several guys looking at me hungrily.

 

Startled I backed away and looked at my brother for reassurance. Nathy noticed the tension and walked over to me. When he saw me he laughed at my face, which caused me to give him my ‘don’t do that’ look. He stopped laughing in a mere second before turning serious. When he was standing next to me I poked his side in his pressure point causing him to jump and hold his side in pain. 

 

“You’re not helping,” I whispered to him and he looked at me confused. Then he looked at all the guys staring at me pervertedly.

 

“Oh ya, forgot, you guys this is Darren’s sister Valeria.” 

 

Everyone’s hungry looked turned into sadness, I guess everyone knows not to mess with my brother. They all went their separate ways, some upstairs, some to the kitchen, and most stayed in the living room. In a matter of seconds I was the only one left standing, I spun around not knowing to go. The couch that was once desolate was now brim packed. I pouted and walked over to Nathy debated whether or not to sit on his lap. After all I only knew him for less than an hour. Seeing no harm in it, I sat down only to hear his groan. Looking towards the TV I saw they were watching soccer and my eyes lit up, I love soccer. Brazil vs. Portland, Brazil is going to win clearly, I thought to myself as Brazil had the ball. Portland stole the ball and a second later Brazil easily got it back, Brazil scored. No one yayed or booed so I rolled my eyes.

 

“Brazil is going to kick your ass if you don’t cheer for them,” I stated simply and Nathy chuckled behind me.

 

“Oh ya, Darren did you get a new car, the Aston Martin,” a blonde guy asked my brother and he looked confused confirming that it isn’t his car. I coughed and everyone looked towards me, I looked back at them and gave them they ‘what’ look.

 

“My car is awesome, right?” 

 

everyone nodded frantically in response while my brother looked at me unsure. Giggling sounded behind me then a familiar laughed joined it. For some reason the sound made me disappointed and bummed out. I tried to tune it out as I got up from Nathy’s lap and walked behind the couch near my brother. While I was walking away I heard him sigh in relief causing me to stifle a laugh. 

 

“Darren do you have a room I can maybe just maybe stay in for now?”

 

.My brother looked over at me confused, but instead of asking he simply nodded. 

 Looking over at the TV I watched as Brazil made yet another score, they’re going to win, I thought to myself. Darren got up and motioned for me to follow so when he started walking up the stairs and I ran after him. While walking down the hall I looked at the pictures, I smiled as I saw my brother in different places with different people. During boarding school, my parents didn’t even give me any pictures of my brother. I’m surprised I even recognized him, I thought jokingly.

 

“I missed you Darren,” I admitted silently as he stopped at a door. He turned around and smiled at me, causing my eyes to get glassy again.

 

“I missed you to Val, don’t be sad.”

 

I hugged him tightly, and then he added “just don’t leave me again.” I nodded solemnly, it was my greatest regret, how could I ever do it again? He pushed me into the room before turning around. I swear I saw his shoulder lightly shaking and a faint hiccup as he walked away. 

 

“Night brother.” 

 

Turning around I saw the bed and laid on it. Slowly, ever so slowly, I lulled to sleep by the sounds of chatter.

 

Chapter Two

 

Groaning I awake at the sound of blazing music and sunlight peeking out of my window. Slipping out of bed I took the pillow and stuffed it under my arm. While walking out of the room I grumbled about how I was going to mess up whoever woke me. Banging on the room with the source of the music I waited till it opened. One of my brother’s friends opened up all jumpy and smiling. Too early, I thought to myself and threw the pillow at his face.

 

“GO TO SLEEP,” I grumbled but it was loud because I was trying to yell.

 

I yawned and held my arms out for the pillow that now laid at his feet. Instead of getting my pillow I got a hug. A frustrated sigh escaped as I pushed him back and gave him a pointed look. 

 

“Your name?” 

 

As I walked into his room uninvited I picked up my pillow, then headed towards his bed. Sitting on the edge of his bed I stuff my head against the pillow yawning once again it’s too early. 

 

“Dave.”

 

He maneuvered over and sat next to me. Looking up from the pillow I studied him, green eyes, short brown hair, and muscular. I listened to the blaring music and then searched for the real source, I will kill it! Doing a double take when I saw the iPod dock, I started to seeth in hatred. Jumping off the bed I nearly tripped but balanced myself as I reached for the iPod then started to lower the volume. It was still hearable just not headache-able. Sighing internally I turned around to see Dave sad with puppy eyes looking at his iPod dock. Laughing at him I gave him the ‘you crazy’ look and he rolled his eyes. Ignoring his grumbles I went back to sitting on the edge with the pillow to my face. 

“I really hate you with a passion Dave, you woke me up.” 

 

He ignored me and then suddenly his eyes brightened. My gut started to squirm as I realized something bad was going to happen.

 

“You guys wake up.” 

 

I nearly jumped up because he yelled straight into my ear. Lifting my head from the pillow I smacked him hard with it. 

 

“Idiot,” I murmured as he rubbed his unharmed arm. It’s a pillow for goodness-sakes. Shooting daggers at Dave with my eyes I saw him fake pout and the guys came into his room looking as tired and grumpy as I was. 

 

“Dave, what the hell do you want,” Logan grumbled and my heart skipped a beat at his voice, but I kept my face stoic. Dave’s song that was playing was now stuck in my head and my bad temper got the best of me and I threw the pillow at his iPod. He looked at me with the same ‘you crazy’ look that I gave him but I held my scowl. 

 

Getting up I collected my pillowed and almost tripped over a wire on the floor but I regained balance quickly.

 

“Also, you keep making me trip, Davit I’m out to get you,” I growled with a grumpy face. He nodded and then hid behind a few pillows. Good choice hide when I’m watching you. Shaking my head at his stupidity I realized they all saw that.

 

 “Is he always this stupid?” 

 

Nathy nodded and smiled at me, which I graciously returned. 

 

“Hey Nathy.” 

 

He laughed then turned around probably heading towards his room so I decided to follow. Following him to the living room I was sad, here everyone can see me. Nathy laughed at my sad expression. Seeing this I sat next to him grabbing the remote quickly as an act of revenge.

 

“Take it and I’ll break your hand off,” I taunted then turned on the TV .

 

Clicking on a new channel I smiled and leaned into Nathy, he’s a comfy gay person. As I was comfortable and half-way through the episode I felt someone trying to slip the remote out of my hand, looking down I saw Nathy’s light tan hand then bit it. He yelped and half of the guys came stomping down the stairs. 

 

“What,” my brother asked and Nathy stared at me waiting for an apology. 

“EH, ya right, I warned you.”

 

 I took myself and the remote to another spot on the couch. Dave came into the room and his bottom lip was still pouted so I felt bad then I looked over at Nathy still mad. Letting out a frustrated breathed I scooted over to Nathy and hugged him then handed him the remote. Getting up from the couch I ran to Dave and hugged him tightly.

 

“I’m sorry for killing you in my mind,” I grumbled into his shirt. I was pushed back and then I started laughing at his sad look.

 

“But, for real, I’m sorry,” I told him and he nodded rolling his eyes. 

 

“What did you do to Nathaniel,” Darren questioned and I bit my lip from laughing. Darren knowing well enough even though it’s been 9 years looked at Nathy’s hand and saw my famous teeth marks.  

 

“Only you Val,” Darren pointed out and I nodded, still smiling while biting my lip. All of the guys were up I noticed and then as I thought why were they standing all of them discarded to the living room attacking it. I was about to jump onto Nathy’s lap while he was talking to Mike, I think that’s his name, when I heard heavy stomps on the stairs and checked it. The person coming down the stairs with disgraceful loudness was Logan’s not girlfriend. Looking away I found my mood was ruined and decided to just sit on the floor leaning against Nathy’s legs. He looked almost relieved I didn’t try anything. I let out a small huff and furrowed my eyebrows.

 

“Nathy, I’m not that fat am I?”

 

I pointed at his relieved face to prove he thought I was fat, but it changed to one that was now amused. 

 

“Are you kidding me, you’re like a feather, it’s just weird having you sit on my lap.” 

 

I nodded then turned my head back to the TV. I scanned the room for the remote and Nathy noticed taking cover, I coughed up a laugh and then noticed it was by Dave. Standing up, I walked over to where Dave was. I discreetly reached over to the side table and quickly snatched the remote before going back to sitting by Nathy’s legs. 

 

I flipped through the channels. I heard a scuff come from Dave to which my smile just widened. He probably wanted the remote back. A football game was on, 49ers and Cowboys. 49ers all the way, I thought to myself and clicked it. 

 

“20 dollars on 49ers.”

 

All the guys looked at me like I was crazy, thinking, a girl football= what? Pulled out 20 dollars I put it on the table in the middle of the living room and everyone stated which will win with the 20 dollars. So if you picked the 49ers you get your 25 dollars. It was half time and I checked the score, 49ers= 20 Cowboys=17. All of the guys looked at each other and some that picked cowboys groaned. 

 

“You always side with Val, she has the luck,” my brother stated and I high fived him. 

 

“Amen,” I praised. Everyone laughed, after it died down, I heard a loud grumble of someone’s stomach and looked around to find Mike with an embarrassed mask on his face. 

 

“I believe I need to make PANCAKES.”

 

I winked at Mike, to which he blushed and I laughed then stood up pulling Nathy up with me. He sighed loudly hoping I would hear and that only urged me to make him come with me. 

 

“Why me,” he complained and I gave him a hurt and pained expression, which he easily showed lament feeling by hugging me. Stalking off into the kitchen I found Logan and his girlfriend on the counter making out. I must have mumbled a snarky remark aloud about kitchen hygiene because Nathy’s bell like laughter rang through the kitchen. That was when Logan and his girlfriend pulled apart to see us. I raised an eyebrow with an amused smile on my face while Nathy was disgusted, well truthfully that makes two of us. Shaking my head I ignored then and took and chair pulling it to where the refrigerator and stood on it looking on top of the refrigerator, Darren always stores the best where no one can find them, experience during Halloween. It seemed that this had not changed.

 

“Ah ha,” I exclaimed as I found the pancake mix and chocolate chips, throwing them down at Nathy I easily plopped down from the chair and put it back into its place. 

 

“Wow, I didn’t know we had this!” 

 

Nathy happily held them and I bent down to search through the cabinets for a pan.

 

    “Pan, Pan, Pan, Pan,” I repeated until I found a pan and took it out, putting it on the stove. Tilting my head to the side I tried to think of what else I needed, oh ya a bowl to mix the mix. 

 

“Bowl, Bowl, Bowl.” 

 

I was handed a mixing bowl and smiled at Nathy. He rolled his eyes and went to the refrigerator getting out milk and eggs. 

 

“See this is why I need you Nathy,” I told him patting him on the head unashamed.

 

Chapter Three

I heard a low growl but tried to ignore it; somehow in the pit of my stomach it had an effect. Shaking it off I stirred the ingredients and added chocolate chips, I mean who doesn’t love chocolate chips. 

 

Pouring it into the pan that was already on medium. Taking a spatula in hand I waited till the pancake mix bubbled then flipped it perfectly; you’d think I had made pancakes before. Never in my life have I Valeria Voss made pancakes. While making the pancakes, the song that woke me up started to haunt me. It played over and over in my head, causing me to feel my sanity slipping.

 

“Dave, I will kill you with this Spatula!” 

 

I could imagine his smile turning into a scared frown despite not being in the same room. Smiling I placed the pancake onto a plate, and then continued with another one. 

 

“Val, how did you find these,” Darren squealed while he walked into the kitchen. I reminisced on the Halloween before I left, licking my lips at the thought of the melting chocolate. Darren noticed this and laughed half heartedly. 

 

 “Who’s winning?”

“49er’s still,” he said casually as I flipped another pancake then placed the other one of the plate.  After a second I placed the other pancake on the plate and counted 10. Letting out a stressful breath blowing some hair with it I realized it wasn’t enough. Pouring more of the pancake batter in the pan I shaped it into a football and laughed then waited a few seconds to see it already bubbling and flipping it. I placed the football pancake onto the plate and smiled at it. 

 

Oh, let’s make a soccer ball too, I thought to myself. I waited, then cooked it fully and placed it on the plate. My smile dimmed as I realized, it looked like all the other ones… a circle.

 

    I counted twelve then counted the guys in the living room. Eight, then Daren, Nathy, Logan, and his not girlfriend, yup twelve. I’ll make more anyways. Cooking twelve more I was done without anymore batter. Picking up the plate I collected paper plates to hand out and made my way to the living room. Mike looked at me like I was a goddess once he saw the food in my hands. I bowed and placed it on the table, within seconds they each had two. 

 

   I only realized i didn’t make enough for myself when I saw the plate completely emptied. With  a shrug I went into the kitchen to clean.

 

  “Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swim swimming swim,” I sung as I cleaned the pan and mixing bowl. Nathy appeared beside me and I splashed water on him. Raising my eyebrow I dared him to do the same and he did, my eyes widened and I splashed even more onto him then ran out of the kitchen hiding behind Darren. 

 

“Help.”

 

 Everyone was confused at my cry until Nathy came into the living room with his shirt soaking wet. I crossed my arms across my chest behind Darren and gave him a taunting look but he just started laughing randomly. Seeing that he was done I went over to sit down next to Mike on the couch. 

 

“Thank you, Valerie,” he exclaimed, hugging me tightly. Is this about the pancakes? Were they that good, I questioned myself? My attention turned away from him to watch the game which was now down to the final minutes of the last quarter. 49er’s still winning, I thought to myself victoriously. As I watched the screen carefully I heard a bunch of thank you’s. 

“Your welcomes,” I said to everyone in-directly, and then leaned into the couch. The 49er’s quarter back was running the field with the ball two centimeters to get the touchdown. Once he did I squealed happily and then they made a goal. The fourth quarter was over and the 49ers won! Jumping up from the couch I did my famous I win dance and nodded my head smiling. 

 

“I win,” I exclaimed taking 25 dollars from the pile of money making my way out of the living room. Through the hall I walked out of the house and to my car. Opening it up I got out my backpack full of clothes and everything important to me. Searching through it I found all of my wallet. I took my winnings and stuffed it back into my backpack where I found a picture. 

 

Taking it out I studied it, my heart skipped a beat. Small tears started to collect at the corner of my eyes, making it hard to see clearly. My throat felt like it was being forced to not allow me to breathe. In the picture was three happy 9 year olds hugging each other, a girl with Carmel hair and lime green eyes, two boys one with the same Carmel hair but regular light green eyes, the other with sandy blonde hair and vibrant blue eyes, all three lightly tanned. It reminded me that we aren’t the same three kids anymore. A tear threatened to spill complete but I held wiped away the wetness drying my eyes. Throwing the backpack over my shoulder I held the picture close to me. Closing my car door I blinked away my tears and watery eyes, and then walked back into the house. My eyebrows pulled together when I was in the living room. 

 

“Where’s Kayla?” 

 

    Why haven’t I noticed her absence earlier. Darren rolled his eyes and walked up the stairs probably to wake her up, she’s even lazier than me. Forgetting everybody in the living room I sneaked a peek back at the picture and bit my lip.

 

“What you got there Val?”

 

 I looked up from it slowly and found Nathy looking at me curiously.  Feeling too emotional, I shrugged and silently walked up the stairs to my room. 

 

Closing the door behind me I let one tear silently trail down my cheek. Sitting on the floor beside my bed I leaned into it and pulled the picture into view. Whatever happened to being there for each other forever and ever, I wondered. Sniffling I faced the picture down on the carpet and played with the carpet. I’m stupid to think he’d still be my best friend, I exclaimed to myself noticing my absurd trust in our relationship. I heard my door open and shut, but I was disappointed too even look up. 

 

“What’s wrong V,” Logan asked leaving me dumbfounded. I had expected Nathy’s voice or anyone but him. Slightly I smiled, he used my nickname. 

 

“Nothing.”

 

While twirling a piece of carpet in my finger I wondered if he would leave. Instead of leaving he plopped down next to me. Butterflies stirred within me making me question my rationality. 

 

“You can’t lie to me.” 

 

Concern flashed in his electric blue eyes as he watched me.

 

“It’s nothing huge, isn’t your girlfriend waiting for you.” 

 

“It’s still something. V, you can trust me.” 

 

I looked up at his blue eyes feeling the concern that he felt. Shaking my head I still didn’t buy it.

 

“Why should I? You aren’t the same Logan from before. You haven’t said a word to me, all you have done is kiss your girlfriend. Besides when I first arrived here you were not welcoming and now you ask me to trust you? Logan, do you still believe you are my best friend?” 

 

My lime green eyes darkening into a dull forest green. He’s eyes also dulled before he took a deep breath.

 

“You don’t understand what you coming back has done to me. All I can do is think of you, and how you just left me. You didn’t even say goodbye.” 

 

He let out a frustrated sigh while looking away. I bit my lip as my throat closed and it got harder to breathe. Looking back at the time when I left I remember begging for my mum to let me say my goodbyes, but she didn’t let me. They even forced me to leave in the middle of the night so that Darren would not notice.

 

“I wasn’t given the choice. It’s absurd that you think I would just leave without wanting to say goodbye. You were my best friend, my everything. Honestly you think I would just leave?”

 

Closing my eyes I tried to breathe and succeeded, and then I opened them again to see Logan crying. Looking down I felt hot  tears come racing down my own cheek. My door creaked open revealing a confused Nathy. 

 

“To be honest, V, I never came to that conclusion until your parents brainwashed me,” Logan answered and I sniffled while shaking my head.

 

“I never trusted them, why did you?”

 

I felt floor to my left creak, looking over I saw Nathy and nodded at him. 

 

“I was crushed, I really had no choice.”

 

“No choice? Is that why you thought I was dead?”

 

 He gave me a weak smile at it then it faded as he was about to answer. 

 

“Your parents told me that was why you disappeared.”

 

Of course they would, I thought to myself.  Shaking my head, I wondered what else they told everyone. My days at boarding school weren’t exactly the best… I hope they didn’t think I was happy without them.

 

“You guys knew each other?” 

 

Nathy had a bewildered expression completely oblivious to the fact that we were best friends.

 

“The bestest of friends,” I exclaimed and held out my pinky to Logan he carefully intertwined it with mine.

 

 

Chapter Four

A soon as our fingers interlocked, pleasureful shocks ran through my body. I looked over and noticed Logan had the same stupefied expression. He must have felt it too. My hand jerked away from his. To my left I took Nathy’s hand seeing if I got the same feeling. When nothing happened, I came to a realization. Suddenly I stood up and walked out of the room silently. Slowly I walked down the stairs with the same wide eyes. Coming to a stop in the living room, I saw that all the guys were there. 

 

“You’re all werewolves too?”

 

I meant it as a statement yet for some reason it came out as a question. My brother lives with a bunch of werewolves, I asked myself. Are they a pack?

 

“Yeah, Blake, myself, Nathaniel, Logan, your brother, Kent, Kyle, Mike, and George but no one likes him,” Dave introduced.

 

 I stood there completely flabbergasted and still wide eyed. Looking at George I walked over to him and sat next to him.

 

“It’s okay, I like you George,” I told him then stuck my tongue out at Dave. 

 

“Yah, Dave, she likes me.” 

 

George argued in a childish tone, which I caused me to relax and laugh a bit. Dave and George started bickering. 

 

“At least I’m not gay,” Dave retorted and I stopped laughing automatically and shot him a death glare. 

 

“Say sorry and that you like gay people,” I commanded him. His eyes widen in shock but then said it just as Nathy walked down the stairs within hearing range. I crossed my arms still mad at Dave. Nathy sat down next to me pinching my arm to get my attention. 

 

“Yes?”

 

“What happened up there?” 

Ignoring him, and perhaps the entire situation, I got up from the couch and plopped down next to I think the guy named Kent. 

 

“Hey Kent.” 

 

Nathy knew what I was doing so I heard him telling Kent to move, the couch lifted up then dropped down and I saw Kent and Nathy traded spots.

 

“Val, tell me,” he begged I only shook my head at him. Pulling my legs up from the floor I hugged then and started watching the TV. Just as I began to distract myself, I heard stomping on the stairs so I looked over to the staircase where I saw Logan. My head snapped back quickly. It was so quick that I was surprised that I didn’t get whiplash. 

 

“V,” Logan called from right behind me in my ear. I jumped unaware that he was there.

 

“Yes, Logan?”

 

“You can’t run away from this.” 

His breath heated up my ear due to how close he was, causing my heart to speed up. Shaking my head I stood up from the couch and was about to switch spots when I was being pulled into the kitchen. 

 

“Logan, please,” I begged my eyes transforming into puppy eyes. He knew how to get around them being my best friend so he didn’t melt at the spot.

 

“V, please, you’re my mate.” 

 

He pulled me against the counter just to kiss me. I was unresponsive at first but then kissed back actually liking the tingles it sent me. My arms made snaked up to his neck, and then they crossed and pulled him closer to me. His hands were well rested on my hips not moving. I bit his lip trying to stop him from kissing me more, but instead that only caused him to moan silently. My eyes started to close fully and I felt happy again. Playing with the nap of his neck hair I heard a scream and pushed Logan away. I was panting and so was he, as I tried to catch a breath all of the guys ran into the kitchen asking what was wrong. 

 

“That-That… Bitch was kissing my man,” Logan’s girlfriend exclaimed which left me feeling just as bad as before. Just as the word bitch came out of her mouth a low growl sounded through the kitchen. Looking over I saw Logan getting antsy. Nathy came next to me with wide eyes.

 

“Is that what happened, you found out you guys are you-know-what’s,” he questioned and I bit my lip nodding. 

 

“Yes,” Logan replied with a gruff appearance. Apparently, he didn’t like getting interrupted by his not girlfriend more than I did. Yet, I was more mad at him than her. 

 

“Guys, let’s go back to the living room.” 

 

Nathy motioned for them to leave, and they all scrambled back into the living room.

 

“You need to talk to her,” I told Logan then disappeared into the living room. Sitting in between Blake and Mike I felt odd, it was probably because I was the only girl.

 

“Logan has found his mate,” Nathy exclaimed winking at me, all of the guys snapped their eyes towards me and groaned. Blake next to me gave me a hug and I rolled my eyes. Feeling awkward and scared I felt that I needed to get all my negative energy out.

 

 

“Do you guys have a skate park anywhere near here?” 

 

I looked up to see all the boys with wide eyes.

 

“OH, you must be talking about a skating rink.” 

 

I shook my head and dug into my pocket for a skateboard keychain that was a replica of my larger one.

 

“We do, it’s like a two minute ride on skateboards,” Kyle informed me and I smiled getting up from the couch and sitting by him. 

 

"Hey, what’s your ability?” 

 

Darren coughed and that’s when I noticed he was in the room. Before Kyle could answer, I began getting up. Arching an eyebrow at my brother went to sat next to him and Kayla. 

 

“I know what you’re doing Val,” he pointed out and I shrugged. It’s working, I thought to myself. No one is thinking about Logan and I being mates. 

 

“Who wants to go skating?” 

In response most of the guys went upstairs to get their boards or change clothes, only Darren and Nathy stayed behind. 

 

"You can’t dislike that I am smart."

 

I stood up from the couch smiling in accomplishment. Both Darren and Nathy shook their heads while we followed the rest of them up.

 

Chapter Five

My brother glared at me but I only waved and ran up the stairs to my room. Once in my room I locked the door and walked into my closet. Realizing I don’t have anything in the closet I went over to my backpack. Searching through it I took out a black tank top, blue acid washed skinny jean shorts and a black pull over jacket. Putting on black and white vans I couldn’t wait to skate board. Unlocking my door I walked out and ran into Logan. Bumping my head I realized how hard his chest is. Taking a step back I placed my hand on my head and mouth the word ouch.

“Sorry.”

I’m not sure he is really sorry, I thought to myself and raised an eyebrow. He laughed and I rolled my eyes. He turned around and I hopped onto his back unexpectedly.

“What?”

He turned his head with a confused look. I just shook my head. It felt good to be so close to him. He shrugged and walked down the stairs carefully. Reaching the bottom all of the guys looked at us, Nathy and Darren rolled their eyes and Kayla looked all lovey dovey at us. Kyle held his skateboard and looked eager to ride it. Smiling I jumped off Logan’s back and took his hand pulling him into the garage. Looking around I saw only 2 cars and a bunch of skateboards. In the corner of my eye I saw the skateboard I used when I still lived with my brother and parents. It seemed my brother took it with him when he moved here. Picking it up I heard Logan laugh.

“I remember the first time you rode that, you fell onto your butt but didn’t give up.”

I reminiscence on the scene and saw a five year old me falling in the middle of the street, I didn’t cry just got up again. Nodding I smiled at the memory. Beside me I saw Logan pick up his own skateboard. We maneuvered through the garage back to the guys. All of the guys talked and walked out of the house, Logan and I followed behind them. Once we were on the sidewalk I got onto my skateboard and watched as Logan was having a hard time while riding it. Shaking my head I kicked off the pavement and speed towards Nathy in the front.

“Not bad Nathy.”

As I turned in the corner of my eye I saw Logan catching up. About time, I thought to myself.

“Thanks, Val.”

Once Logan caught up, the skate part began to come into view.

“Excellent.”
Getting off my skateboard waited for everyone to pass Logan and I. Rolling my eyes he put his arms around my waist and looked around. Most guys were staring at me then hatred exploded from Logan.

“I guess you didn’t skate much when I was gone?”

Pulling his attention away from the strangers, I questioned him recalling his poor form. He shook his head and hugged my waist tighter as 4 guys walked up to us.

“I didn’t.”
Getting back on my skateboard I smiled at Logan telling him to follow me with my eyes.

While skating near my brother, I noticed he didn’t pay attention to me only to his own mate Kayla. For a whole hour we did nothing but skate. When we were back at the house no one said anything to each other and just went straight to their rooms.

“Weird people,” I said seriously, in response Nathy and Logan just stared at me with this weird expression.

“What?”

“Like you’re the one to talk.”

Unlike the others, Darren, Kayla, Nathy, Logan and myself stayed in the living room chatting. Time caught up to me while we were talking in the living room leaving me exhausted and tired.

“Night everyone,” I whispered half asleep.

~ The next morning I was awoken by a loud crash, without even blinking I got out of bed and started to walk towards the door. Running down the stairs I looked around to find a broken item and no guy. I bumped into Kayla who was also trying to find out about the mysterious crash.

“Who dares wake me up so early in the morning? I like my beauty sleep,” she murmured, but even though she was still asleep her voice was fierce and obviously annoyed. Letting a small laugh I follow her into the kitchen where I saw the broken plate, however, there was no one at the crime scene. Kayla threw her hands up and walked out of the room to my brother. If it wasn’t so early in the morning I would’ve laughed so much at her actions, instead I smiled a little and ran after her. Biting my finger I tried to wake up fully, but it didn’t work. My brother, Kayla, and I all sat on the couch in the living room thinking of suspects, before calling down everyone.

“Hey it’s only my third day here, what am I supposed to know besides a bunch of hairy werewolves that turn into guys live here?”

I leaned back into the fluffy couch with an annoyed expression. They both gave me a look that told me to shut up and help. My only response to that was my eyes rolling and a small huff.

“Doesn't Nathy get up the earliest,” Kayla asked, snapping her small fingers if she came up with something wonderful. Except it only brought me raise my eyebrow in wonderment.

“By the way, why are you here, this isn’t even your house. You even know the regular schedule of the guys, so that means you’ve been here a lot of mornings.”

I looked at her with piercing eyes, like a lion picking at its prey.

She just laughed then said the strangest thing, “Elephants have weird textured skin, it’s all smooth, but it’s also rough.” The only thing that came to my mind was that she had the weirdest distraction.

“Anyhow, Nathaniel doesn't get up this early, you must be seeing things Kayla,” Darren insisted, taking the attention away from Kayla. Well that's obvious that she stays, I thought with a little smirk. I have an advantage now.

"Just go look in every room and see who's awake and who's not," I suggested and then yawned telling myself to go back to sleep. Before getting off the couch I saw a shadow behind the curtain in the living room. With a little smirk I pointed to it and Darren went to see who it was. Instead of a guy hiding it was a girl. The famous not girlfriend of Logan.

"Why are you here," Kayla inquired with an annoyed tone, and if she wasn't half asleep I'm pretty sure that it would've been a Luna tone. Was my brother the alpha? I shook the idea away, I could just ask him later.

"Revenge, that little ugly girl took my man away and she only came yesterday, she must be some kind of devil. It annoys me so much, so I was going to mess with her stuff. In the end I got lost," she answered while twirling her bleached blonde hair with her fake nails. Darren grabbed her by her wrist and yanked her out of the house. He obviously didn't like hearing those things about me that made me smile.

"Okay I'm going back to bed," Kayla told then disappeared off to my brother's den. I laughed half-heartedly then made my way up to my room. Plopping down on my bed I slowly start to fall asleep, and when I was about to Dave came into my life once again. Picking up my pillow I stormed out of my room, to find Kayla with her own method of getting Dave to shut up. I looked over at his IPod dock and found that it was shattered.

"Oh my, Kayla you CAN be bad-ass."

I smiled in astonished admiration. Dave gave me the finger underneath Kayla who was strangling him with his pillow. Darren walked into the room and went straight to Kayla, then picked her up off of Dave and carried her out of his room. It took all I had not to laugh at the coughing Dave while he was rubbing his neck in discomfort.

"That's what you get for playing music in the morning, god how I love Kayla all the more now.”
Ignoring the seething Dave I cautiously went over to Logan's room with a good mood.

Chapter Six

Logan looked up from his bed at me skipping into his room. At first he rolled his eyes at my expression this early in the morning. We both weren’t morning people, but once I was up I couldn’t go back to sleep. I walked into his room, closing the door behind me, and then looked around to see how much his room fitted him. However it didn’t, way back when, his room had always been bright and with photos of Darren and I everywhere. As I sat down next to him on his bed I sighed, realizing that none of my pictures were in his room. That’s depressing, I thought to myself pressing my lips together.

“Valerie you should see the view from the window,” Logan explained his sleepy rough voice that affected my heart causing it to speed up dramatically. 

 

My goddess, calm down heart, I commanded silently. My heart listen but only for a moment because it started racing again as dragged me from his bed to the window seat which had an incredible view of the ocean. The beach I correct myself as I gaze at it awestruck. Even from a distance you could see that the sand was so white that the light from the sun reflected off it making it practically glow. The sunrise didn’t help change my expression at all. Watching the sunrise with a view of the beach was something you could do at any coast, but for most people it was something you watch on TV waiting for that perfect morning in your own life.

 

I used to live in New York in my boarding school only a few short days ago, although it seemed so long ago. There wasn’t any view from a window like this in New York. The beach seemed so far away from central station. Logan, standing behind me while I watched the sunrise, was a whole new feeling. He seemed to enhance everything that was wonderful about the view, making it feel so unrealistic. That was what made it scary, that it was so unrealistic. The idea only made me wonder why was everything going right? I turned away from the view and faced Logan who was finally starting to fully wake up. 

 

Oh gosh, why does my mate look so… what’s the word for god like, but werewolf cute little puppy like human, in his own best friend kind of way? I don’t think there is a word so I’m going to go with Logan. Why does he look so Logan?

 

“Logan let's go down to the beach.” 

 

“If you’re there, then I will be too.” 

 

He gave me a little wink at the end causing me to roll my eyes at his fake charm that was very real. He pushed me out of his room so that we could change. I maneuvered into my room just across the hall. I found that Kayla was lying down on my bed sleeping, probably finding that it was the only place in this house that was quiet. I smiled at Kayla, thinking my brother, they definitely have a connection even without the mate theory. 

 

Without making any loud or sudden sounds I tiptoed into my closet to find my small bag packed with stuff from New York. I dug around for my pastel tortoise bikini which wasn’t as small as what most girls wore to the beach. It was strapless, but clipped and tied in the back just in case one of the got undone. The bottom was small ruffles to have the effect that it looked like a skirt when it was just a bikini bottom. After changing in the closet I rustled through the bag once more for a long loose white shirt and my belly button ring that matched the tortoise color. I put on sunscreen before putting on the shirt, and then walked over to Kayla quietly to see if she was awake and she was.

 

“You’re going to the beach and you didn’t invite me,” she grumbled with a pouted face as she sat up and stretched out like a cat which was ironic because she was a werewolf. She got out of bed and shuffled into my closet searching through my bag for my other bikini without a word. I couldn’t help but laugh at Kayla’s way of doing things. She asked for the unimportant things, but skips the question that matters. I love the way she does it, because it shows her confidence and that she doesn’t give a shit about what you say or how you say it. After she changed, we both walked out to find Logan waiting against the wall completely zoned out. I used the opportunity to quietly walk up to him and peck him on the nose, because he hates it. He shook out of his daydream and glared at me although it didn’t last long his angry look turned to a sparkle in his eye called adoration. I think or hope I should say.

 

“So lead the way, because it’s my first time going to the beach in 9 years.” 

 

My voice was a soft whisper, hoping that they wouldn’t catch on to my sadness on the thought. However they did with their super hearing that I’d grown so accustomed to.

 

“Wow, you must have suffered. I mean I go to the beach almost every day,” Kayla marveled while leading the way down the stairs and out of the house. Once we got to the beach I couldn’t help but groan in pleasure as I remember very distantly the feeling of sand piling and seeping between your toes. Kayla ran over to a group of friends without saying anything leaving Logan and I alone. Shrugging, I found a solution to resolve the awkwardness that hung in the air as we stared at each other in out bathing suits. With a smirk on my face I jumped on Logan’s back and pointed to a spot that was mildly secluded.

 

“I’m starting to believe that you like my back more than you like me,” Logan grumbled as he shifted me on his back and started walking towards the spot.

 

“That’s… not entirely true, I like your back because it’s yours, besides anything yours is mine.” 

 

Playing with his hair I tried to relieve some nervousness I was feeling. We both laughed and settle into the spot. I lay beside him on a blanket that he brought.

 

“I missed you. All that time I was at the boarding school, I was alone. I completely felt like an empty shell, so after I graduated high school I felt a gravitational urge to see you and my brother. After finally seeing you two, I don’t feel like an empty shell any longer, I’m starting to become Valerie again. Thank you.”

 

Hearing this both of stayed quiet laying on the blanket. He slowly and gently turned over to pull her into his arms. Without saying anything, he just simply kissed her forehead and hugged her tightly.

 

Chapter Seven

“Well enough of that depressing stuff, let’s go into the water and play with the sharks Logan.”

 

 He smiled at my sudden change and got up from the blanket pulling me with him.

 

“Rather than playing with the sharks I’m going to teach you how to surf.” 

 

At his remark I stared at him for a literal minute. He believes that I, Valerie Voss, will go into that cold water and willingly be taught to surf?

“Logan, you’ve definitely earned a level up in humor because that was funny what you just said.” 

I chuckled at the thought of me trying to surf. I watched his expression turn from amusement to confusion. He honestly believed I would go into freezing cold beach water? 

 

Something flashed in his eyes, something like recognition. Without a word of warning he picked me up and ran into the cold and when I say cold, I mean ice cube making cold, water. Smiling down at me he let go dunking me into the water.

 

“So you don’t like cold beach water, that’s a shame,” he taunted jokingly. I grabbed his forearms and used them to stand up.

 

“I really don’t like you right now Logan.” 

 

I shivered as I realized it was warmer in the cold water than above because of the wind slapping at me. My eyebrows met in anger as I glared at him. With only my head peeking out, I saw him softly smile, before letting a smirk escape. 

 

“I really don’t believe you right now Valerie.”

 

I pouted visibly at him then splashed cold water at him, which only backfired because it still hit me. Unbeknownst to me, I had basically started the splashing war. Splashing wars could be fun if it weren’t for the salt and the ice cold water. 

 

He splashed back sending large amount of cold water to me pushing me backwards into the water. The waves came crashing over me leaving me laughing as I got pushed into him.

 

“It feels nice being here with you,” I murmured hoping Logan couldn’t hear it, even so I felt that I had to say it out loud. He smiled a wide grin in response, allowing me to deduce that he did hear it. We continued to splash until he suggested surfing again, and since I finally got used to the cold water I agreed. 

 

After a ton of failed attempts I finally stood up and surfed until a traitorous wave knocked me down.

 

“I give up, I swear it, I give up.” 

 

Logan a few meters away could hear me even though I said it as softly as I could. He smirked then sat down on his surfboard and swam to me.

 

“I knew you would.”

 

I smiled then did the only thing I could do on a surfboard lay on it and swim back to the shore. While standing at the surf, I waited for Logan when three guys my age approached me.

 

“Hey, are you al---,” one of them started but then shifted as he looked behind me. A look of fear took over the guy’s eyes.

 

Turning around I smiled at Logan while I held back a laugh as he warned off the guys with just a glare.

 

“What’s the point of scaring them off if they didn’t even have a chance?” 

 

They were still in hearing range, the one who started to talk flinch while the other two gave out a small laugh. Logan still had a protective and tense expression on his face. It made my heart flip and did something to me, urging me to kiss him in the middle of the beach in front of all these people. I could tell it calmed him because he slowly relaxed out of his tense state and into the kiss. I backed out of it and with a huge smile. I love being here with my brother and with Logan in the sun, on the beach, in that mansion, only here is where I want to be, well also college. The daunting thought of college suddenly pulled me back to reality. 

 

“Let’s go back to the house where all these guys can’t see you.” 

 

Without my response he dragged me back to where our blanket was. After leaving, we dripped wet into the house were all the guys were watching TV, and then suddenly watching me.

 

“I don’t know where is safer,” I whispered to Logan jokingly then ran up the stairs with Logan a foot behind me, blocking the pack’s view of me. Walking into my room I shut the door behind me so Logan wouldn’t walk in. After locking the door I took a shower, dried myself, and then got dressed in a large and loose t-shirt. Then put on cropped leggings that ended in the middle of my shin. Digging through the bag I took with me from my parents I found my cell phone. I would’ve fallen on my butt if I hadn’t been sitting. 30 missed calls from my parents and 40 text messages. Did they find out? With my heart pounding I called my mother back, and with each ring my nerves spiking.

 

“VALERIE SKYLAR VOSS, where have you been? We stopped by your apartment in New York only to find it completely empty!” 

As she yelled into the phone I found myself confused. I wasn’t sure if she had been worried or if she just didn’t like to not have complete control. My eyes began to sting, but I didn’t let any tears escape. I like it here, there's no point in crying. 

 

“I’m in California,” I answered allowing my voice to creak a little. It was silent for a moment on my mother’s side of the phone until my father started talking.

 

“Go back to New York, you’ve been accepted to Adelphi University in New York, we told all the other schools that sent you acceptance letters that you wouldn’t go.” 

 

Their doing it again, each time I take control they it rip away again. My heart started driving at 160 mph again as I realized if I wanted to dance, I would have to go back and leave Logan. I could find dance here, right? UCLA is here… LA is known for entertainers. 

 

“I’m here with Darren, I will not leave him again.” 

 

I hoped they’d have some sympathy or pity on me. The distance sigh I heard through the phone warned me. They wouldn’t come to an agreement.

 

“So you’re with your brother, if you don’t come back to New York in two days I will have all his scholarships cut off and any one in that mansion that we pay for will have to leave. I suggest you move that body of yours moving and get an airplane ticket to New York at this very moment Valerie.” 

 

This time it was her father talking, his voice left no room for defiance. I hung up and fell on my back and just laid on the floor next to my bag full of clothes and my laptop. Taking out my laptop I quickly turned it on. I can’t do that to Darren as much as he seems to be lazy, he worked hard for his scholarships plus I can’t make all the guys homeless.  

 

I got the soonest flight to New York within minutes with my father’s help. All of his business connections allowed him to get me on a flight leaves in 4 hours. 

 

Time to think of excuses to get out of here alone, I thought sadly. Looking through my bag I took out my IPod and decided I could think of something later. Putting in my earphones I listened to Justin Timberlake. Getting up, I made sure all of my temporary things were back in my bag. When I found nothing missing I went downstairs to sit with all the guys.

 

“I’m going to miss you guys.” 

 

It quietly I wondered if I had even said it out loud. No one paid any attention to it so I decided that they hadn’t heard.

 

“Who wants to make a bet that SpongeBob is on right now?” 

 

Everyone faced me in amusement and began to bicker amongst each other.

 

“I bet it isn’t on, it’s 10 o’clock in the morning,” Charlie, the one who is always with Mike, said with certainty. Some of them nodded while others didn’t.

 

“I bet it is on, I mean kids are up in the morning, aren't they,” Dave retorted sending Charlie a changeling look. I laughed then stood up and sat next to Dave.

 

“Although I still don’t like that you woke me up, twice, I agree with Dave,” I chimed in to the conversation. Dave pouted again then yanked out of the headphones out of my ear. Raising my eyebrow I looked at Nathy so that he can clarify what exactly that meant.

 

“Don’t look at me, Val.” 

I looked away from him and at Kyle then nodded.

 

“I don’t bet on things, because it’s 50 50.”

 

Looking around at all the guys I felt that these 4 hours would be a very long one. Logan came down the stairs and plopped onto the couch next to me. Very long, I clarified with myself.

 

“Movie time,” George proclaimed as he put in a popular movie. I leaned my head on Logan’s shoulder as started watching the movie. It was so boring and my spot was so comfortable that I fell asleep.

 

As my eyes blink open I frantically realized I fell asleep and that the movie was over. Logan was looking at me in concern.

 

“What time is it?” 

 

Without waiting for a reply I climbed off of the couch and ran up the stairs to my room digging out my phone. An hour till the plane leaves. Logan stood in the doorway confused at my frantic nature. I gave him a sad look then realized if I was flying back to New York I’d have to leave my car.

 

“Hey Logan, can you do me a favor?” 

I gave him my pretty please with a cherry on top pouty face. His eyebrow twitched up giving me a questioning look.

 

“It matters what it is,” he stated with a matter-of-factly tone. With a small huff I took out my keys and handed them to him.

 

“Watch my car as I go out, I’m going to UCLA to check it out. I’m taking the public bus though, and I don’t want those idiots to touch my car.”

 

Looking straight at him I felt guilty so I quietly looked away after he nodded.

 

“Val, be safe,” he called from up stairs as I ran down them. He said it so simply but right now it meant a lot. And just like that I was out of the house and in a taxi on the way to the airport.

 

Chapter Eight

 

 

Airports get me agitated, the way everyone’s selfishness and ignorance shines as they bump through you as if you were no one. With a desperate sigh I started maneuvering through the crowd with careful movements. Each time someone crashed into me my inner wolf would growl and my self-awareness slowly came undone. 

 

I needed to escape from all these humans. Taking a deep breath helped me collect myself for a moment before I went completely wolf crazy. I centered myself and calmed down even though every nerve in my body jumped and spiked. With the help of feet I maneuvered through the crowd to the plane without careful movements unlike before. My head ached with the hustle and bustle of moving feet stomping, phones ringing, and ignorant people yelling. Aromas of several cultural foods mingled with foul and sweet body odors creating an unappealing overall scent of the airport. Everything about the airport was poison to hypersensitive senses that only came into play when I became unfocused. 

 

Within the mix of chaotic things my brilliant eyes spotted the loading space to my flight. People were already getting on so I took that as a hint to speed up, not that I wasn’t already in a rush to escape the airport’s main ways. I gave my ticket, pass port, and ID to the man who was letting people in. Once he handed everything back I came to the realization that in the mist of the chaotic measures to get here, it was my last few minutes here before leaving to my demonic parents. 

 

“Logan, I wonder how long I can survive without you,” I whispered to myself as I glanced towards the exit. Forcing my feet to move involuntarily was hard, each foot movement I had to think of a reason to leave. For my brother, for the guys, for… me? No, not that last one. I finally began to be myself again, and I even found my mate, leaving would be the last thing I did willingly. 

 

As I stepped into the terminal towards my flight, my heart quickened and my thoughts grew more chaotic. A part of me remembered hearing that newly meet mates couldn’t handle being apart from each other for too long. Will it affect Logan and I? Truthfully, I didn’t want to find out. 

 

My heart reached a record speed when I felt an arm snake around my waist. 

 

“Valerie, where do you think you’re going?”

 

Logan’s voice echoed through me as I felt a shiver of pleasure. I bit my lip as I turned around to face him. He had a panicked expression that was intermingled with anger. Taking out my phone, I showed him my call log. All 30 missed calls and the one outgoing call reflected in his eyes as his expression turned to recognition. 

 

“What did they say? For you to leave again?”

 

At first I didn’t want to respond thinking that they would be annoyed and disappointed at my decision to leave, but when I saw the hurt in his eyes I knew I had to. 

 

“They said if I didn’t go back to New York for University they would find a way to take back all of Darren’s scholarships and force him out of the mansion. Which would lead to all the guys not having a place to live.”

 

Logan pulled me over to the side of the hall to allow others through. With a sigh he just simply hugged me. 

 

“I… just got you back.”

 

Against his chest I nodded and hugged him tighter. A low pur that escaped my lips caught us both off guard. 

 

“So you didn’t want to leave?”

 

“No,” I whispered back softly, afraid of how my voice sounded. If I had talked any louder, I may have cried.

“Logan what do I do?” 

 

He didn’t respond instead he picked his phone out of his pocket and scrolled through his contact list. I listened in as I heard the sound of the outgoing call, wondering who he was planning on talking to. A familiar voice sounded through the phone making me clench my jaw. It was the only thing I could do to keep from letting my tears flow. 

 

“Did you find my sister?”

 

Logan used his free arm to gently rub my back to calm me down as he told the situation to my brother. 

 

“Those… bastards.”

 

A small laugh escaped from me as I realized he couldn’t find a word for our parents until he said bastard. 

 

“Give the phone to Valerie.”

 

Hearing this I slowly took the phone and lead it to my ear. 

 

“Come back home, we will figure this out together.”

 

With that the call ended and Logan lead me out of the airport. All of the things I seemed to hate about the airport melted away as I held his warm and large hand through the crowd. On the drive back, a million thoughts ran through my head. Yet, the one that stuck out the most for me was, why?

 

Why did our parents want us to be apart? They even threatened their own son’s future to keep it that way. What was so important for it to be that extreme? However, the more I thought about it the less I understood our parents.

 

There was something that they were hiding from us.

Impressum

Tag der Veröffentlichung: 17.12.2011

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