The Hidden Daughter

Chapter 4

Amaya-9 years old

Today marks the one-year anniversary of my grandparent's murder. Everyone is supposed to meet in the arena, but it was cold last night and I didn't feel well. The staff is supposed to light the fire in my room but they always forget.

This house is the original packhouse that was converted into an orphanage. However, out of respect for the Alpha families that lived here, this wing of the building was left untouched there. So, when I was told I would be staying in the former alpha suite without electricity a year ago, it was another blow to my ego. The staff are supposed to come in here to light the fireplace every night during the winter, but they always manage to forget.

Because I was thrown here instead of with my family, the other orphans like to bully me. Last night, as I made my way back to my room, I ran into some of the older kids. They are children of fallen warriors and are treated like royalty in the orphanage. As I walked by, one of the girls turned and hit me in the chest. Just as I was about to hit her back, the housemother showed up and I got in trouble. Despite never actually hitting them. The housemother decided that it would be best if I spent the rest of the night and the next day in my room. Which meant that I would miss the ceremony. That is how I got out of going to the ceremony.

Since I was in trouble, it meant that none of my friends were allowed to check on me. My chest hurt and it was hard to breathe. Not knowing what else to do, I broke the bracelet and summoned Saline. Maybe she can help ease the pain.

"Amaya, is everything okay?" Saline asked. After giving me a once-over, she yelled for Jackie to come to help her. I remember Jackie from the cottage.

How strange that it has been exactly one year to the date since I have last seen either one of the witches. Sobbing hurt so much but I couldn't help it. In just one night, my whole world was turned upside down. I went from a safe place to live and a warm bed, to a dingy room with an old bed and girls that liked to push me around. This is the worst injury I have had, and I didn't know what to do or who else to call.

"I am sorry, but it hurts to breathe and I didn't know who else to call."

"Don't worry about it. We will take care of you. Just focus on your breathing and try to talk unless we ask a question."

Nodding in agreement, I closed my eyes and tried to block out the pain. I wanted to scream out when the pain became too much, but I couldn't find my voice.

Darkness is the last thing I remember before the pain became too unbearable.

Two days later.

Saline and Jackie kept me sedated for the last two days so that my body had a chance to heal. I was awake long enough to drink soup, water and use the restroom.

"How are you feeling today, Amaya?" Jackie asked.

"Better. I want to try to eat something other than broth if that is okay?" I asked Jackie. I was tired of eating broth, I don't care how many seasonings they used, it just wasn't that filling.

"We should try something soft, such as potatoes and eggs," Jackie replied.

"Eggs are fine, I like them scrambled with cheese."

"I will be right back with a plate. Just a heads up, the housemother will be stopping by today. We have kept her at bay as long as we could have without her knowing that we are here."

"Just great. What can I expect?"

"They have brought you food, but we make it seem like you are sleeping or hiding in the restroom when they have come. The excuse was that you didn't want to see anyone because you were being punished for something you didn't do."

"Thank you for everything you have done for me. I wouldn't have survived if it hadn't been for you two."

"You are welcome. When you are feeling better, we would like to test you to determine your powers. Most wolves in your pack are tested at birth, but for some reason, you weren't."

"I would like that. After the test, would you or Saline be willing to teach me how to use them?"

"Of course, sweets. We would be honored to help you learn how to control your powers."

Leaving me to shower and get dressed, she went back to her house in Ireland to make my breakfast. I am happy to hear that I was able to contact someone to help me.

It was two more days before I left my room. It was summer vacation, so I didn't have to worry about missing school. However, I missed a week's worth of chores, so I had to make them up by working extra hours and helping out in the kitchen. It also meant that I was able to miss mealtime with the alpha and his family. As painful as my injuries were, not having to sit in the same room as the alpha and his family was worth it. They did me a favor. I could handle the physical pain, it was the emotional pain that was unbearable. Those girls don't know it, but they did me a favor when they attacked me.

After finishing the kitchen, I walked back to my room. So far, I have completed most of the deep cleaning of the kitchen and the laundry. Just a few more days and I should have a free day. That is when Saline is planning on holding the ceremony/test to see what my powers are. Telekinesis is the only power that I know for sure I have. It is how I have been accomplishing my chores in such a timely manner.

If the housemother found out that I was using my powers to assist me, she would add another week to my chores. Normally, I wouldn't mind because the more punishments I receive, the fewer dinners I have with the Alpha. But, right now, I want my day off.

This is going to be a long two weeks.