Chapter 4
860 Words
I padded through the hallway and into the kitchen to grab a glass of water. I was leaving wet tracks all through the house, but I didn’t care. All I could think about was the story that Kora just told us. It shouldn’t be any different than any other time she reads some crazy books from her grandmother, but for some reason this time felt different. Legends, myths, and special powers weren’t real. They didn’t exist, right? Did I want that weight on my shoulders?
I chugged my water in 2 gulps and found myself already in my bedroom, with no recollection of walking there. It was spotless and the fireplace roaring as usual. I liked it that way, if my room was messy, my brain was messy and the fireplace was comforting. The crackling and popping of the wood burning often lulled me to sleep and the smell meant home.
Meaning to change, I walked over to my closet but stopped short at the full body mirror hanging on the wall I stared into it and let my thoughts spiral.
What would I do with special powers? I could stop rogue attacks, secure our kingdom, and maybe even heal the sick or wounded. Our numbers could flourish and we could be strong. That is what the princess in me should be focusing on.
My heart beat wildly in my chest and I let myself imagine what that life could be like, if only for a moment. While I was alone in my room. Powers could mean adventure. Powers could change everything for me. My mother would no longer be able to be disappointed in my choices. I would be different than any other princess we had known. Through all of the text and history I had read, there had never been any kind of magic in the werewolf line mentioned. Other than the obvious shifting, enhanced senses, and mate bonds of course.
“Girl get a grip, you’re not special,” I thought to myself as I took in my appearance.
My curly red hair was haphazardly thrown in a bun and my pale skin was practically glowing in the soft light of the fireplace. My skin was creamy and I was filled out in all the right places. I was beautiful, and I knew it, but it was nothing exceptional. Most she-wolves were gorgeous, a trait that helped with attracting our mates. The males were strong, able to protect and provide. It was easy and natural. It was what we, as a species, knew. Powers could change everything.
A world filled with magic was something I had always secretly dreamed about. I was an avid reader and while I knew our existence was magic enough, I wanted more. I needed purpose beyond being destined for this kingdom. Don’t get me wrong, I knew I was lucky, but I did not feel like a life of royalty alone would be fulfilling.
I heard footsteps behind me and twirled around in time to find Asher at the threshold of my bedroom. Startled I dropped the towel I had been holding. His eyes were bright as he again did a once over.
I felt my body flush in response, and turned around quickly to hide the blush in my cheeks.
“Don’t do that,” he whispered. I met his eyes in the mirror.
“Do what,” I whispered back. I couldn’t find my voice with the way he was looking at me.
“Hide yourself from me,” he answered. “You are beautiful.”
I froze, feeling my violet eyes widen a fraction. A shiver traveled down my spine and I opened my mouth to speak but nothing came out. Surely he did not just say that. He broke my stare and cleared his throat loudly.
At that moment, Kora ran in with her arms outstretched. Tear streaks ran down her face and I instantly felt guilty for hurting her feelings. Besides Asher, she was my best friend. Nobody took her legends seriously, but I never knew it bothered her.
“I’m sorry Ari,” she sniffled. “I didn’t mean to upset you. I thought it was just cool that I read that. How coincidental, right? It is so time for some change and I thought this could be it.” She trailed off, looking embarrassed.
“Hey, it’s okay. I’m sorry I reacted that way. It’s been a long day,” I tried to give her a reassuring smile but I could feel that it fell flat.
She sniffed again and wrapped her arms around me in a tight hug. I quickly returned it and held on a little longer than I needed to, meeting Asher’s eyes again.
They had faded back from the bright bronze to his normal honey brown color. He ran a hand through his hair. He did that when he was anxious so I knew he was struggling with his thoughts.
“Are you okay,” Kora whispered into my ear.
I shook my head in a daze, “I’m not sure, but I feel like everything is about to change.”
- Writer
