Page 2 of Finding my Shifter Soulmate

"Anywhere. Find yourself, Sabrina. I worry about you. When's the last time you've been out of this town?"

"I don't even remember. Five? Maybe six years? A lifetime ago."

"Exactly. And I don't think you've ever gone out and explored the world on your own before. It could be good for you. God knows you deserve it."

When I try to think of something to counter her point, I draw a blank. Maybe I do deserve a real vacation after spending years caged by Casey. But the thought of traveling alone to somewhere new feels daunting.

"I guess it's not a terrible idea," I say eventually. "Although I wouldn't even know where to start."

" You love the beach. How about Bali? Remember, I went there right after high school. It's amazing. So beautiful. Unforgettable. I'd love to go back one day."

I've already scrolled through thousands of breathtaking images of the island on my phone. The way Jean raved about it when she got back all those years ago made me want to experience it as well. She was so inspiring. One week in paradise, and she came back an entirely different person. She embraced vegetarianism, meditation, and spirituality, and had a new passion for all things exotic and out of the ordinary.

"That could be exactly what I need," I whisper. I clamp down on the ball of hope rising in my chest and settle my thoughts.

Am I really ready to do something so crazy? For a week, I contemplate the pros and cons of such a drastic decision. I think about all the extra money I'll be spending. And about the packing, planning, and actual traveling. But then I decide to just go for it.

So in late March, I head out on the solo adventure of a lifetime.

I arrive in Bali in a total blissed-out state. Once I reach the resort, I change into a bikini, drop my luggage in my villa and set out for the infinity pool in my sarong and shades. Anattendant greets me with a tropical-fruit flavored cocktail, which I promptly accept. I spot the shady cabana with my name on it, walk over, and stretch out on the plush pillows, content to look around at the landscape surrounding me.

There's jungle everywhere I look. Gorgeous dark green trees are blooming with the most spectacular red flowers. I tip my sunglasses down on my nose and marvel at the exquisite sights, smells and sounds. Birds are chirping and singing in the branches, and butterflies flutter around them. The infinity pool creates a clear cut aqua line separating the gorgeous foliage from the vibrant blue ocean stretching beyond it.

Never have I imagined a place so breathtaking. For a moment, I'm stunned, lost in the glory of this heaven on earth. And then a statue catches my eye. I lean forward to get a better look at it.

It's a strange creature. Something like a fierce lion crossed with a scary dragon. It has a golden mane sticking out on all sides and wide golden eyes. It’s mouth is wide open, the top teeth stretching all the way up to the nose. It’s back forms a high arch, and it’s wearing an intricately-decorated red and gold crown.

"Barong," someone says softly, drawing me from my reverie. I turn toward the attendant behind me, and give him a tiny smile. "Is that your name?"

"No. It’s the statue’s."

"Oh!" I blurt out, embarrassed. "It's fascinating. Can you tell me more about him? Or it? Or her?"

He lets out a soft laugh. "Of course. He is the king of the spirits. Protecting Bali and those within Bali from all forms of darkness and evil."

My skin tingles as I ponder his words and the fascinating statue. I feel strangely connected to it already. "He looks and sounds very powerful," I remark.

"That he is. Barong is a warrior."

King of the spirits. Warrior. The guardian of Bali. Fascinating. I must learn more about him. As I stare at him, his shimmering mane and proud stance draw me in even more. The mystical feel that permeates the island is fully present in this place too, and I can't deny that something unique and magical is buzzing through my bones.

"Where can I learn more about Barong? I'm curious."

The young man studies me for a moment, then gestures down the road. "There's a temple not far from here. There are tours twice a day. I can get you a pamphlet, if you'd like."

"I'd love that. Thank you." I smile and return my attention to the statue. The golden outline of the beast shines brightly in the sunlight. The intricate patterns and colors of his regal clothing are vibrant and mesmerizing, and I find myself fixated on him.

Something about this creature speaks to my soul, though I can't put my finger on what. I've always been interested in spiritual things, but I've never quite felt one with any particular belief system. Meditation, energy work, cleansing, crystals—none of it ever drew me in like this.

And the weirdest part? I could swear that the statue is watching me back. I swear that his eyes follow me as I leave the pool.

Chapter Two – Gede

Something is suddenly very right.

I feel it in the air the moment I step outside to start my rounds through the jungle. It tugs at me gently as I leave my dwelling and wind about the many trails cutting across the island. Everything is at peace, no threat or malice lingering anywhere for as far as I can sense, and my mind eases.

And yet, I still feel some unknown pull leading me forward. Something unusual is in the wind, a feeling that today could be life changing.

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