Living the Future

Chapter 25 - Arnold’s talk.

We appeared in front of the pack house. Daisy was relentless about holding my hand until I caved. Andy walked ahead when we came out of the forest line. We walked up to the doors of the pack house and Andy opened them. It was not to my surprise pretty empty.

“I have to go meet my dad.” Andy said and then he pat my back. “I’ll see you at dinner.” Andy said and as soon as he walked out of ear shot I turned to Daisy.

“He’s going to go tell my mom I’m home.” I said and started walking up the stairs. Our hands still firmly clasped.

“Isn’t she going to come check on you?” Daisy asked.

“Doubtful.” I said as we got to my door. I let go of her hand and opened the door. I kicked off my shoes walking over and laying down. She slowly came and sat in the chair near the bed. I looked at her somewhat surprised.

“Your mom could come in!” She said.

“So?” I said.

“Are you feeling better?” Daisy asked.

“No!” I said annoyed as I reached over and grabbed her hand.

“Do you want to talk anymore about it?” She asked and I tugged her towards me.

“No.” I said as she sighed and got up. She got into the bed and laid down. I put my arms around her and pulled her close to me. Something about her being there made me feel at ease. The door opened and I made no attempt to move.

“Oh goddess.” I heard my mom and watched her pinch the bridge of her nose. Uncle Arnold walked in behind her. “Daisy I think it’s time for you to go home.” My mom said and I moved my arm so Daisy could get up. She hopped up pretty quickly and made her way out the door. Uncle Arnold closed it after she made her exit.

“First I’m going to pretend I didn’t see any of that. Your father can handle that.” My mom exhaled. “Which he is very hurt by your words this morning. You missed a day of training also, don’t forget your training with Arnold starts tomorrow.” She continued and I sighed.

“I know.” I said.

“Well?” She asked.

“Well what?” I replied annoyed.

“What do you have to say for yourself today?” My mom asked.

“What can I say? I’m a terrible child.” I smiled at her and her face turned to anger. Uncle Arnold grabbed her arm.

“You’re getting upset.” He said to her.

“Of course I’m getting upset!” She snapped at him.

“Hannah.” Arnold said softly. She took a deep breath.

“Josh we need to talk about what’s going on.” My mom said.

“With?” I asked knowing full well she meant me and my attitude

“Josh, you are really pushing it here.” My mom said as her face flushed red.

“There isn’t anything to talk about.” I said and heard my stuff rattling on my shelf.

“You are leaving for eclipse on Friday. You are acting more erratic then ever.” My mom tried to say calmly.

“I’m not erratic.” I huffed. “I’ll be fine in eclipse. I was fine before we left.” I said.

“You weren’t fine before we left. We pretty much hid somewhere different in the house everyday so we couldn’t find you.” My mom crossed her arms.

“I’m sure if anyone actually looked, they would’ve been able to find me.” I said coldly and a figurine I had on the shelf flew across the room and burst when it hit the wall. Uncle Arnold grabbed my moms arm and then held her still.

“Come on mom! I really liked that.” I sighed.

“I’m really sorry about that Josh.” My mom said patting Arnold’s hand. “But you are not working with me. I just want to know what’s going on with you. Once you’re back in Eclipse, you’ll be spending time at the pack house.” She said.

“I’ll be with Jordan.” I said.

“And?” She said.

“I doubt I’ll be hanging out with Finn Lewis everyday.” I said.

“I was nervous about this but Barion has reassured me that he will be with you also. If you can’t take it, I want you to walk away and come home.” My mom said.

“Or maybe go crazier and break his other leg.” I laughed.

“Josh this isn’t a joke! Alder and Christa have been really close friends since Barion died!” My mom yelled and I sighed.

“I’m sorry, I’ll come home if anything goes wrong.” I said looking at her.

“Good. Good we’re getting somewhere.” My mom smiled and looked at Arnold. He pat her shoulder.

“Everything will be fine mom.” I said trying to reassure her.

“See, he understands how important it is.” Arnold said reassuring mom.

“Mom.” I said and she looked at me. “I promise I will avoid Finn at all costs. I’m not going to start fights. I’m going to train with Jordan.” I said and she nodded.

“Okay Josh. I believe you. Now you can go apologize to your father and then Declan for missing your training today.” My mom pointed at me. “I’m going to tell him about…” Mom stopped motioning with her hand in a circle.

“About you and Daisy.” Arnold chimed in and mom nodded.

“She was just comforting me because I had a hard day.” I said.

“Sure. If that’s what you’re calling it.” My mom said and then looked at Arnold. I could tell they were link arguing and I sat up. My mom walked out before uncle Arnold turned to me and I could feel my expression glaring.

“Now Josh, don’t look like that.” He said as he went and sat in the chair. “Your mother wants me to talk to you about mate bonds and stuff.” He said and I groaned.

“My dad has already talk to me about that stuff.” I said looking away.

“This is different.” He said and I waited for him to start. “Daisy’s birthday is soon and that means she will be able to mate bond to someone.” He paused watching me.

“And?” I asked.

“Well if your feelings grow and she’s not your mate. It’s going to make life very difficult for you.” He said and stopped again.

“She’s just my friend.” I said.

“Listen, I have some experience in this area. I know how hard it is to watch the person you love, love someone else. Of course when you find your mate, that will change. Your feelings you once had will mostly disappear, but not completely.” Uncle Arnold looked uncomfortable.

“Are you saying I shouldn’t be around Daisy because she might not be my mate and I’m going to be too attached?” I asked.

“Yes.” He said.

“She’s just a friend, and I don’t like anyone like that.” I said and Arnold sighed.

“That didn’t look like you didn’t like anyone, but what ever you say Josh.” Uncle Arnold stood up and left.