Page 6 of Night with a Gamma
“Deal,” I say, my spirits lifting as the tension between us eases. I can feel the weight of her expectations still lingering, but for now, I’ve carved out a small piece of freedom for myself.
As I head up the creaky stairs to pack my things, my excitement surges. I can’t wait to spend time with Harrison, to learn more about him, and to explore what this bond truly means. I toss clothes into my bag, the soft fabric brushing against my fingers like a gentle reminder of the life that awaits me.
Each item I pack feels like a step closer to a new adventure, a new chapter in my life. I can already picture Harrison’s smile when he sees me, the way his eyes light up in recognition. There’s a world waiting to be discovered, and I’m ready to embrace it.
The thought of the Waterton Pack and the wildness of their territory fills me with anticipation. I can almost hear the distant howl of wolves echoing through the trees, a song that calls to my very soul. I can’t wait to run with Harrison’s wolf, to feel the wind in my hair and the thrill of the hunt.
Once my bag is packed, I make my way back downstairs, where my mother waits in the living room, her expression a mix of apprehension and acceptance.
“Be careful, Wren,” she says softly as I reach for the door. “These are dangerous times, and your bond with Harrison… it’s powerful. Just remember who you are.”
“I will, Mom,” I assure her, my heart racing with a mix of excitement and anxiety. “I promise.”
As I step outside, the cool evening air wraps around me like a comforting embrace. I take one last look at the cottage, feelinga bittersweet tug at my heart. It’s my home, but it’s also a place filled with expectations that I’m not sure I can meet.
With one last breath, I turn away and stride down the path, the promise of adventure awaiting me. I can’t wait to see my mate, to discover the magic between us, and to finally carve my own path in a world that seems filled with obstacles.
As the trees whisper their secrets around me, I can feel the magic of fate pulling me closer to the life I’ve always dreamed of — a life filled with true love, freedom to beme, and a sense of belonging that I’ve longed for. And as I venture deeper into the woods, the anticipation of what lies ahead fills my heart with hope.
The moon rises high in the sky, casting silver beams that dance across the forest floor, guiding me toward my fate. I can feel it in my bones; this is just the beginning of a story that will unfold in ways I cannot yet imagine. With every step, I embrace the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges await me with the fierce determination of a witch who is ready to claim her destiny.
3
A CAT AND A WOLF WALK INTO A PACKHOUSE…
Wren
I can hardly believeI’m finally here, the place my mate calls home. As I drive my butter yellow Volkswagen Beetle through the gates of the Waterton Pack, excitement bubbles within me like the effervescent fizz of a freshly opened soda. The sprawling landscape unfurls in front of me like a lush green tapestry, dotted with majestic trees and the rustic charm of the packhouse. My heart races at the thought of seeing Harrison again. The anticipation makes my fingers drum nervously against the steering wheel.
In the passenger seat, Shadow, my midnight-black cat, mewls from his crate, his voice a soft reminder of my connection to home. I glance at him, the way his golden eyes gleam with curiosity and a hint of mischief.
“It’s going to be alright, Shadow,” I reassure him, placing my hand gently on the top of the crate. “We’re going to our new room soon.”
He responds with another meow, as if he understands every word, and I can’t help but smile. He’s not just my pet; he’s myconfidant, my familiar, my little bundle of magic in a world that sometimes feels overwhelming.
As I pull up to the back driveway, I spot Dalton, the Beta of the pack, striding toward my car. He’s tall, tattooed and muscular, with an easy confidence that radiates from him. I step out and greet him with a bright smile. “Hi, Dalton! It’s great to see you!”
“Wren,” he replies, his voice deep and warm, like a comforting embrace. “Glad to have you here. Harrison is in Wyatt’s office on a call, but he’ll be along shortly. He hasn’t shut up about you all morning. In the meantime, let me help you with your bags.”
I open the passenger door and reach for Shadow’s crate, but Dalton flinches slightly as he catches the scent of my feline companion.
“Is that a cat?” he asks, laughter dancing in his eyes.
“Yep! This is Shadow,” I say, holding the crate a little higher like a trophy. “He’ll be staying with us in the suite.”
Dalton chuckles, shaking his head. “A cat in a house full of wolves? This should be interesting.” There’s a knowing smirk on his face, and I can’t help but wonder what he’s thinking.
“Don’t worry,” I assure him, my tone slightly defensive. “I’ll keep him in the suite. I think it’ll be fine.” But deep down, I’m aware of the potential chaos. Wolves and cats aren’t exactly known for their harmonious coexistence.
Dalton’s smirk deepens, dimples pop in his cheeks, and I roll my eyes. These hot wolfmen and their smirks could send lesser women into a faint. I grab my boho brown leather purse and Shadow’s crate, following Dalton as he leads me up the stairs to our new suite.
The packhouse is everything I imagined and more. The wood beams overhead are rich and dark, the scent of cedar lingering in the air. I can hear the distant sounds of laughter andconversation filtering through the walls, a reminder that this place is alive with community, with family.
When we reach the door to our suite, Dalton pushes it open, revealing a cozy space filled with warm light and inviting decor. There’s a large king bed draped in soft maroon blankets and navy pillows strewn about, a sitting area adorned with plush cream chairs, along with a small kitchenette tucked away in the corner. It’s perfect.
“This is amazing!” I exclaim, stepping inside and setting Shadow’s crate down on the floor and opening the cage door. He pokes his head out, surveying his new surroundings with a mixture of curiosity and caution.
“Glad you like it,” Dalton says, stepping in after me. “Harrison will be here soon. Is there anything else you need help with?”
