An Unforseen Mate

Planning A Party

   As their breakfast was brought out and set in the buffet servers, Shai slowly stood from her spot and wandered over to get in line. At a counter set along the wall were their usual cereals, bagels, bread, tortillas, muffins, and fruits. An assortment of cheeses, salsas, syrups, jams and more set out for toppings and add ons.  A microwave and toaster were set up on the end for use if wanted. The buffet held eggs(scrambled, hard boiled and sunnyside up), bacon, pancakes, sausages, and the special of the day homemade cinnamon rolls. Unable to help her smile, she quickly grabbed some sausage and a cinnamon roll before heading over to the cold counter, grabbing a few grapes and a juice. She was always amazed at the amount of food they had available to them, and how dedicated everyone was to making sure the others were cared for.

    She made her way back to the table. She set her plate down and sat in her seat, glancing at Indie, a nickname many preferred to use. The woman was stunning, her naturally straight raven black hair was highlighted with a beautiful purple and hung low on her back, her eyes a deep golden brown color, reminding Shai of caramel. She had pale skin and dainty features, almost making her look like a porcelain doll. She was tall, almost 6 foot, and had the figure of a model, toned and lean. Many took her looks and shrugged her off, but Shai knew better. She knew Indie could easily take down someone half her size, or deal some serious damage 

   Noticing the stare, Indie smiled and touched the young wolf’s hand. Something that had been happening a lot to her lately. “Shai, I know you’re having a rough time. But everyone here has been talking about wanting to host a party for your Coming of Age Ceremony. I know you don’t usually like parties, but this is a huge occasion. And besides, you need some interaction with wolves other than us. See some fresh new faces, maybe meet a nice boy.” she grinned, flashing a mischievous grin. Hearing Shai snort, Indie chuckled and shook her head, watching the girl eat her food. “You gotta let us do this, at least for me?” she nudged her with her elbow.

   Shai groaned quietly and glanced at her Luna. She really didn’t like social events, and one surrounded around herself meant people would expect interaction. But she knew how much this would mean to Nona and Indie. Pondering the idea, she took a bite of her cinnamon roll and nodded, glancing over at her Luna. Her mind started to race a bit and Shai suddenly held her hands apart slightly, indicating she wanted it to be small. Her worry was if too many packs were invited more would show up unannounced. 

   Indie grinned and nodded. “You got it. I’ll invite everyone we know. Besides if you want any changes just say so. But you have to actually say so.” she smirked, raising an eyebrow and watching Shai open and then close her mouth. “Oh, don’t glare at me like that. You have over 200 wolves here to protect you. And besides, many of our mates would love a night of partying and possibly finding a mate.” she giggled as Shai nodded in agreement. “Good, it’s all settled. Meet me in the library after breakfast and we’ll start planning.” she clapped her hands together and scarfed down her meal.

   Shai whined and grumpily chewed at her cinnamon roll. She knew this party wasn’t only for her, it was about her, but it was also for the others. And she knew that this would be a chance for the alphas to strengthen allies between packs and spread gossip and intel. Rolling her eyes, Shai finished her food and placed the dishes in the rack before heading back to her room to wash up. ‘How am I supposed to mingle when I don’t even talk to anyone but Nona?’ she thought and rubbed her forehead, ‘No wolf would want someone who hasn’t talked or shifted in front of anyone since she was little…’ she whispered. 

   ‘Enough, we’re going to be just fine. Just because we hide, doesn’t mean we’re worthless.’ her wolf grumbled unhappily.

   Shocked that her wolf spoke up, she nodded and washed her face and hands before heading out of her room. Her wolf had been suppressed for so long, she didn't have the same control as others did. And when her wolf did speak, it shook everything inside her. Suddenly nervous about this whole event, Shai approached the large wood doors to the library, ornately carved with a majestic looking floral design. Taking a deep breath, she slowly pushed one of the doors open and stepped inside, seeing Nona, Indie and a few other she-wolves all gathered around the largest table, papers scattered everywhere. They all chattered excitedly, some glancing over at her before going back to what they were doing. Unable to help a giggle, Shai felt her nerves melt away and joined them at the table. She was now seeing how much this was meaning to everyone.

   “Shai, you’re here. Good, help us decide on color.” Indie smiled, sliding a list over a color chart to her and nodded as she noted to gold. “Well, gold it is. Do you want to do strictly gold or any shade of it?” she asked.

   Shai ran her finger down the row of gold, indicating all shades. She wouldn’t mind seeing all the different dresses and outfits in every shade of gold. After about an hour of picking out decorations, settling details and picking invitations, Shai gently touched Indie’s arm, smiled and headed out. She needed a break, all this planning was draining and it felt more like a wedding than just a birthday party. But she knew how excited they all were and would leave the rest to them. 

   Her wolf started to stir within her, “I need to run. Or just get out.” the silky voice reverberated through her mind. Knowing she didn’t have much choice, Shai sighed and quickly made her way out of the building and down towards the hiking trail. After a couple minute walk, and making sure no one was around, she slowly stripped off her clothes and set them in one of the cloth bags hanging freely in the trees. The pack had decided that instead of letting clothes be thrown randomly around, it’d be easier to just have random spots to store clothes. Stretching out her shoulders, she closed her eyes and let her wolf take over. Feeling a sudden burst of adrenaline, she groaned and shuddered as her bones and body shifted and contorted into that of a canine. 

   Her wolf was stunning, well at least she thought so. Her face, muzzle, back and legs were a dusky blackish grey color, while her stomach, sides and tail were a gorgeous copper color. Her coat was fluffy and smooth, with flecks of white, black and copper spread out like freckles on her fur. Shaking her body out with a large stretch, her wolf grumbled happily and quickly took off before anyone could see her, spending the day just running free ad enjoying nature.

   Over the next few days, Shai sat back and observed everyone running around and swapping ideas for outfits or just talking. Many of the girls had already bought their outfits, Shai was waiting for this evening to go and find an outfit. She was excited for Owen to return home from his vacation. Owen was a young wolf, 24 years old with short sandy blonde hair and bluest eyes, a normal looking man with a neatly trimmed beard. He had always just treated her normally, and seemed to understand what she was saying when she motioned or looked at him. She was sure if he wasn’t gay they’d have been soul mates. She giggled at the thought, it was ridiculous to think of. Pulling on a pair of black leggings, she stood from her bed and grabbed her red plaid jacket up, shrugging it on over her white tank top. Glancing at her phone, she saw his text and instantly perked up, rushing from her room, down the hall and out the front doors. Owen had been there for her through everything, and had been a huge part of her life, so having him gone for a month was hard for her. Watching his black pickup pull up, she ran around to the drivers side as he got out and hugged him, breathing in his scent. A calming scent of birch and pine, she pulled back and smiled up at him. He was very tall at 6’3, she’d almost forgotten that.

   Owen hugged her back and chuckled, “Wow, did you get shorter?” he asked, looking down at her. “Come on, let’s get going before it gets too late to shop.” he said, nodding to the passenger side door. He smirked as she tilted her head. “Yea, it’s only noon. But it’s gonna take a while to get everything we need! You have to try everything on!” he assured, laughing at her glare. “Let’s get moving!” he grinned and hopped back in his truck.

   Wanting to punch him in the shoulder, Shai grumbled and walked around to hop into the car. Once on the road, she leaned back and happily listened as he told her about his trip down south, it never seemed to bother him that she didn’t speak or voice her opinions around him. She had noted long ago that that was probably the reason she’d never felt the need or even tried to speak around him. In fact, speaking to him scared her more than anyone else. Shaking the thought from her head, she watched as they pulled into a lot at a dress and suit store owned by a witch in town. She heard Owen say something about paying for everything, and glared at him. She didn’t need him to, but knew better than to fight him on it. 

   As the two entered the store, a strong scent of herbs and spices hit her nose. It was intoxicating, she loved being around the witches. The way they could so easily conjure something up or do magic, although it seemed the ones around here decided hard work before magic. They seemed to do magic only as a novelty, which was amusing to her. Looking around, she saw row after row of gowns and dresses, suits and tuxes. They had everything from bbq to meeting the queen, all in a rainbow of colors. “Hey, folks! What can I help you with today?” a young girl asked, she couldn’t have been more than 15.

   Owen pulled Shai over to the desk and pointed at her, “This girl needs a gorgeous dress for her Coming of Age Ceremony, in gold.” he advised. “Oh! And if we could try different styles, that’d be great.” He grinned and looked down at Shai. “Let’s get looking.” he said, leading her after the witch. After just a few minutes, Shai found herself in a huge ball gown dress, and looking at her reflection she looked like she was drowning in the bronze fabric. 

   After what felt like days of trying on ball gowns, mermaid, short, and so many others, Shai found herself annoyed. None of the dresses looked even decent on her. She crossed her arms, sitting in the robe that had been given to her and sat next to Owen. She was frustrated and ready to just go in jeans and a tshirt. She’d never been a girly girl, so when Owen liked something but noted she didn’t, he’d send her to try another. He really was a good friend to her. 

   Feeling like she was almost out of a sale, the witch held up a finger. “I think I have an idea. Give me just a moment.” she chimed and scurried to the back of the store. “Here, let’s try this one!” she said, ushering Shai into the dressing room. The dress looked like it was made out of plain black fabric, making Shai nervous. “Oh, just try it on. It’ll surprise you.” she smiled and helped her slide the dress on. “Now, turn and look.”

   Shai slowly turned and gasped, the dress shimmered both gold and rose gold over the black, depending on the way she turned. The dress had a high neck and no sleeves, the back had an open back, covered by a light gold mesh and buttons up the back. It hugged her body nicely at the waist and chest before flowing down gently around her legs, a slit going to mid thigh. “Now, with a nice pair of heels you’ll be perfect!” she clapped and opened the curtain. 

   Shai heard Owen give a small chuckle, “See, I knew we’d find your perfect dress. I’ll let her pick out your shoes. Whatever works and you like.” he said and stood to go look at the suits. As Shai changed, she felt a flutter in her stomach, she was finally getting excited for this party. After picking out a simple pair of black heels, she walked over to the counter. She nodded as Owen showed her a black tux with a gold lining, tie and handkerchief he’d picked out. After paying, the two finally headed home. He’d been right, it was an all day thing. 

   By 6pm they’d reached the house and stepped out, both glancing at each other as they felt the tension in the air. Cautiously, the two wolves pushed through the front door. Everyone fell silent as they entered, all looking nervous or scared. “What happened?” Owen demanded, echoing Shai’s thoughts.

   Indie slowly stepped forward, “We received the RSVPs… and an extra one. The NightShade are attending.” she spoke softly.

   Shai felt the blood drain from her face, and for the first time in her life, spoke in front of them all. “No…” her voice barely audible, and their shocked and worried faces were the last thing she remembered before she blacked out.