We gathered in the garden for dinner. It was only a few people, mostly kids from the elite high school bunch that lived close or in the pack house. A lot of people were congratulating James and I. James was telling everyone not to worry that we were waiting until my 18th birthday to finalize the marking to keep people from asking why we hadn’t. I let him do most the talking, it had already been such a emotional day. Madison and Declan came to sneak us away so we could be alone. We went to my room and all sat down. James laid on the bed and I sat on the edge. Declan sat on the floor and he pulled Madison into his lap.
“It’s nice to take a breath.” I said looking at James who’s eyes were closed.
“I’m exhausted.” He uttered out.
“I didn’t know your mom was going to invite a bunch of people.” Madison said cuddling up to Declan’s neck. I realized I couldn’t feel any heart ache with Madison around now. I must’ve looked perplexed because Declan said something.
“What’s wrong Hannah?” I shook my head.
“Nothing, it would be hard to explain.” James rubbed my back.
“Hey, I’m glad you’re here.” James said and I smiled at him we looked into each other’s eyes.
“Do we need to go?” Declan said with a smirk and a wink.
“No, I’m really tired so there won’t be any funny business.” I said in a childish playful way. James threw in some puppy dog eyes and everyone laughed. The next few hours we all laughed and talked. We mostly talked about how excited we were for college and how much fun we were all going to have once we were there. Once it started to get late Madison and Declan left to their home. James took his shirt off and went to get under my covers as I was changed into pajamas.
“Excuse me Mr?” I glared at him and he looked at me.
“What?”
“You’re getting in my bed with jeans on.” I made a disgusted look and James scoffed.
“I usually don’t wear anything, but you said no funny business.” We both stared at each other.
“That’s never stopped you before.” I chimed in.
“How dare you ma’am! I am a gentleman!” I giggled and he laughed.
“Fine sleep in like underwear or something.” I told him walking past him and getting in bed. James looked confused.
“I don’t wear any.” He said and I looked at him confused.
“How can you not wear underwear?!” I knew it was common for some people but I always thought it was weird.
“It’s easier to change into my wolf that way.” He looked down at his jeans.
“Oh my god I give up, just get in bed.” I rolled over and faced the wall. The bed was so unbelievably comfortable. James hopped in and cuddled up to me. “Ugh I can feel your jeans.”
“Keep it up and I’ll take them off.” He tickled me and I giggled.
“Ok ok, I’ll stop.” He kissed my neck and nuzzled me.
“Good night beautiful.” He said softly into my ear. I slowly drifted off.
My dream was new, I was carrying a baby but it wasn’t Julia’s vision I was looking through. I was wearing what resembled burlap. I had seen servants in other vision wear something similar. I continued to walked though a dense forest coming up to a wall of willow trees. I pulled back the drooping branches to reveal a colorful wonderland. Flowers and beautiful lights flying around. The person paused and placed the baby down. A giant glowing pink light floated over.
“My goddess, we will take it from here.” Colorful lighted surrounded the baby and the baby floated away. I nodded and turned walking out after a few steps I fell to my knees.
“Where… where am I!?” I looked behind me and only saw evergreen trees. Confusion set in and everything faded to black. I didn’t dream again that night.
I woke up alone. My door was slightly open and I could hear people arguing. I crept out of bed and tip toed to the door. I could hear James arguing with Luna Eve.
“Everyone thinks it’s odd you haven’t finalized your bond.” She said in a pointed tone.
“I’m not rushing her mother. Why is this any of your business anyways? Because your worried how your friends feel?” James was angry.
“Your brother will be back soon. Finalize it!” She was demanding now. Her tone scared even me.
“I won’t do anything she doesn’t want completely.” James wasn’t scared of her. Luna Eve sighed heavily.
“Then I’ll talk to her.” I heard her shoes clack as she walked away. James bare feet followed behind her.
“Do not rush this!” James argument started to fade as they went down the hall. I slowly closed my door. I tip toed back to my phone and picked it up. No messages. I typed to Lee.
“Why haven’t you messaged me back?” I needed answers. I set the phone down and grabbed just a quick sun dress to throw on. I heard my phone ding and I ran to it.
“Can’t wait to see you at breakfast!” From Madison.
Disappointment shot through me. As I was replying I heard the door open.
“Hey your up! Breakfast will be ready in a bit.” James said smiling. He walked up grabbed my face and kissed me. My lips tingled. “Ready to go down?” He asked and I simply nodded.
“Let’s go.” I whispered as I looked into his eyes. For a moment I felt like it was only us in the world.
“I love you.” The words just fell out of my mouth. His smile grew so wide, he pulled me in and held me tight.
“Hannah you don’t know how happy that makes me to hear. I love you too.” I closed my eyes and melted into his embrace.