The Pack

Chapter 7

As they walked back towards the village, Anika didn’t say much. Her mind was racing. She would change into a wolf? Kono changed into a wolf? That kiss? That kiss was the most incredible feeling she had ever experienced, and she wanted more of it. She was torn between having no idea who Kono really was, and wanting...needing to know all there was to know about him. As soon as they reached the village they were met by Howi and Etu.

Etu and Anika had been friends for almost as long as her and Atepa. They were close. Etu had wanted to be more than friends, but Anika was never at that point with him. He was handsome, strong, and kind, and he knew her so well. She knew he cared about her, but what was she to do? Etu walked up and hugged her as Howi came up to kiss Atepa.

“Hey you! What have you been up to? Long time no see” he said.

“It’s only been a week, Etu.” Etu had went out hunting with his father and they always made a small trip out of it. He smiled.

“Aww was you keeping track? Did you miss me?” He gave her a little wink and took a step closer to her. He was always flirting and she was used to it...but now…

“There’s something you need to know. While you were gone...”

“Anika! Your mother is asking for you” Howi interrupted.

“It’s okay. Go. You can tell me later. Under the willow?” She really didn’t think it was a good idea because it could send the wrong message, but he had already turned to walk away. She would meet him, tell her that she is with Kono, and then leave...simple.

She ran to her old home and her mother was outside beating an old rug. “You were looking for me?”

“Yes I was” she stopped what she was doing and turned to hug Anika. “I need to talk to you about something very important. You were chosen by Kono, to be his. There is a possibility that something is coming and I am worried about you.” Anika got close to her mother so she didn’t have to speak very loudly.

“Does this have anything to do with me going through a unique change?” Her mother’s eyes widened.

“Have you already…”

“No” she said shaking her head, “Kono told me this afternoon.”

“He shouldn’t have done that. If you haven’t gone through the change yourself how is he to know that you even will?”

“That was in his vision. Because he has already gone through the change. Chief Ahote told him he would and he didn’t believe him so he left. While he was gone, he went through the change himself. He said that when he seen me upon returning, his wolf sensed mine and that he knew I was to be his. He said...my change was coming soon.” She realized that she was a little scared. Would it hurt? Would she be alone? How long would it take? She had so many questions. Obviously she would be able to return to her human form, afterall, look at Kono.

“Are you frightened?”

“Some. But I will be okay. I know it. I love you.”

“I love you too.” She hugged her mother and left in the direction of the willow tree, She cared about Etu and he deserved to find out from her that there would never be anything between them other than their friendship.