Chapter 16

2135 Words
As a few days pass, the tension begins to ease, but the heightened alertness on the property remains. Suddenly, I receive a mind link from Rikki. "Airabella, I've got good news! Meet me at the gardens; we're training today." Excited, I quickly leave the library, where I've been immersed in research, and dash to the gardens, with Luke following closely behind. Upon reaching the gardens, I pause to address Luke. "Luke, I'll be with Rikki. Mind link me if you need me." With that, I rush over to Rikki and envelop her in a big hug, eager to begin our training session. As we reach her apartment, Rikki announces her plan. "I'm borrowing my brother's four-wheeler. Get on b***h," she instructs. I hop on the back, eager to see where she's taking us. With Rikki at the helm, we venture into the forest. After a twenty-minute ride, we arrive at a clearing bathed in bright sunlight, devoid of trees. The natural beauty of the spot takes my breath away. "Airabella, this is where we will do your training," Rikki declares, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Overwhelmed with gratitude, I turn to Rikki. "Thank you so much! This means the world to me!" I exclaim, feeling a surge of anticipation for what lies ahead in this picturesque setting. As we arrive at the clearing, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation coursing through me. The sunlight cascades through the canopy above, illuminating the clearing with a warm glow. "This place is perfect," I remark, taking in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings.Rikki beams with pride at my reaction. "I'm glad you like it, Airabella. Now, let's get started," she says, her eyes gleaming with determination. With a grateful smile, I hop off the four-wheeler and follow Rikki to the center of the clearing, ready to begin my training in earnest. I walk around, taking in the beauty of the clearing. "How did you find this place, Rikki?" I inquire, curious about her discovery. With a mischievous grin, Rikki replies, "This is the place I meet up with Dane. Welcome to our f**k spot." Shocked, I raise an eyebrow. "Seriously, Rikki?" I exclaim, a mixture of surprise and amusement in my voice. Rikki bursts into laughter. "Well, sometimes, but not always at this location," she clarifies, still chuckling. I shake my head in disbelief, unable to stifle a laugh myself. "I guess every couple needs their secret spots," I remark. "I thought he was staying with Will and Chester?" I ask, recalling Dane's recent whereabouts. Rikki nods. "Sometimes, but he doesn't live here. He resides past our territory. He mentioned that one day, he'll bring me there," she explains, a hint of longing in her voice. She then says, "Okay, Airabella, we know if you cry it rains, when you're depressed it becomes gloomy, and when you're mad, earthquakes. So let's see if you can make it rain." I stand there, trying to concentrate, but nothing happens. "Come on, Airabella, don't be a little b***h, you got this," Rikki encourages me. Despite her blunt words, I can't help but laugh, but I keep concentrating. Slowly, I start feeling a tingle that courses through my body, building up until it's released, and it begins to sprinkle. I open my eyes to see Rikki dancing in the rain. "Yes, Airabella! You did it!” She has a huge smile on her face. “:See if you can change how it rains," she cheers. Determined, I focus harder, and gradually, the sprinkle turns into a downpour, drenching us both. As the rain pours down around us, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Rikki's cheering and dancing only add to the moment, filling me with a newfound confidence in my abilities. With each passing moment, I continue to experiment, adjusting the intensity and pattern of the rainfall. It's exhilarating to realize the extent of control I have over my powers. After a while, we decided to head back, both soaked but elated. Rikki flashes me a grin as we ride back on the four-wheeler, her excitement contagious. I can't wait to continue training and mastering my powers with her guidance. As we arrive back at the packhouse, it becomes evident that our drenched appearance has caught the attention of a few pack members. Some give us curious looks, while others simply chuckle at the sight. Ignoring the stares, Rikki and I exchange knowing glances, silently reveling in our successful training session. We make our way inside, the sound of our squelching footsteps echoing in the hallway. Rikki turns to me with a mischievous grin. "Well, that was certainly an unexpected turn of events. Let's make sure to dry off before anyone asks too many questions." We made it to my room and changed clothes. I gave her some clothes to change into. Despite the potential for gossip, I can't wipe the smile off my face. Today marked a significant step forward in my journey to control my powers, and I'm grateful to have Rikki by my side through it all. After drying off and changing into dry clothes, Rikki and I decide to head to the kitchen to grab a snack. As we walk, we can't help but chuckle at the absurdity of our situation. In the kitchen, Joan is busy preparing a pot of coffee. She glances up at us, a playful glint in her eyes as she notices our slightly damp hair. "Looks like you two had a fun time out there," she comments with a knowing smile. I share a quick look with Rikki, amused by Joan's observation. "Guilty as charged," I respond, chuckling softly. Joan nods knowingly. "I can always tell when you're up to something," she says, her tone light and teasing. "But I won't pry. However, if you ever need my assistance, I know how to keep those boys distracted so they won't bother you." Grateful for her offer of help, I smile warmly at Joan. "Thanks, Joan. We appreciate it," I say sincerely, feeling relieved to have her support. With a nod of acknowledgment, Joan returns her focus to the coffee-making, leaving us to contemplate the potential advantages of having her assistance during our secret training sessions. As Luke approaches, he heads straight for Joan, expressing his gratitude for the coffee she's preparing. Joan returns his affection with a kiss, but Luke's attention quickly shifts to Rikki and me. His serious tone immediately puts me on edge. "Why are you wet, Airabella?" he asks, his gaze probing. Before I can respond, Joan jumps in with a quick and convincing explanation. "Oh, Luke, Rikki and Airabella were just walking by the pool when Rikki decided to play a prank and pushed Airabella in. So, of course, Airabella retaliated and pulled Rikki in too," she says, chuckling at the image. Her quick thinking earns a grateful smile from me. "Yeah, we couldn't resist," I add, playing along with the impromptu story. Luke seems to buy the explanation, his expression softening as he shakes his head. "These two are a handful," he remarks with a fond smile. Relieved by Joan's quick thinking, I shot her a grateful smile, appreciating her ability to cover for us without hesitation. Luke seems to accept Joan's explanation, his demeanor relaxing as he joins in the laughter, unaware of the real reason behind our damp appearance. After the brief exchange, Luke pours himself a cup of coffee and joins us at the table. Conversation shifts to lighter topics, with Joan sharing some gossip from around the pack and Luke recounting a recent training session with some of the younger pack members. I catch Rikki's eye and we exchange a silent acknowledgment of relief that our secret remains safe, thanks to Joan's quick thinking. As we chat and enjoy our coffee, I can't shake the feeling of gratitude towards Joan for her loyalty and discretion. Rikki subtly communicates with me through our mind link, suggesting that it's time to disclose our secret training sessions to Joan, albeit discreetly. I readily agree, recognizing the trust and camaraderie between us.Taking the lead, Rikki extends an invitation to Joan and me to join her at her place for a relaxed evening of movies and drinks. Excitedly, I accept, eager for a change of scenery, and Joan eagerly agrees, expressing her need to break away from the confines of the pack house. Despite Luke's watchful gaze, hinting at his concern for our safety, we proceed with our plans, walking toward Rikki's apartment. I can sense his apprehension about us leaving without his protection, especially with Joan accompanying me. Once inside Rikki's cozy apartment, the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming. Rikki wastes no time in setting up the movie, while Joan and I settle onto the couch with glasses of wine in hand. As the movie plays in the background, Rikki and I exchange glances, silently acknowledging our plan to reveal our secret training to Joan. Waiting for the right moment, we bide our time, enjoying the camaraderie and escape from the tensions of pack life. Eventually, during a lighthearted moment in the movie, I then leans over and whispers to Joan. "There's something I need to tell you." With a sense of anticipation, we turn our attention to her, ready to share my secret. I take a moment to gather my thoughts before speaking in a calm yet serious tone. "What I am about to share with you is a secret that cannot be divulged to anyone, not even Luke. It's significant, and I believe you can offer invaluable assistance. But I need your assurance that this information stays between us." Joan nods solemnly, her expression reflecting her understanding of the gravity of my words. "Airabella, whatever you tell me, I promise it will remain confidential, even from Luke," she assures me. With a deep breath, I reveal the truth about my heritage as a half Royal Lycan and my possession of magical abilities. Joan's reaction is a mix of astonishment and realization, her mouth dropping open in shock. "I knew it!" she exclaims. Surprised by her response, I inquired further. "What do you mean?" I ask, curious about her previous suspicions. "You went into heat," Joan explains matter-of-factly. "The only beings that experience that are werewolves and Lycans. And since I didn't sense a wolf in you, I figured it had to be the latter. But I didn't want to say anything, knowing how many werewolves harbor prejudice against Lycans." As I continue to confide in Joan, detailing the secret training sessions and the extent of my magical abilities, her initial shock transforms into genuine excitement. A smile spreads across her face, her eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "This is incredible," she exclaims, barely able to contain her excitement. "I had no idea you two were training like this. Count me in—I want to help however I can." Her eagerness to be involved fills me with gratitude and relief. I wrap her in a warm hug, feeling a sense of camaraderie and support. "Thank you, Joan," I say sincerely, touched by her willingness to join our efforts. As we approach, Luke and Asher turn their attention towards us, their expressions curious. I offer a smile, trying to maintain a casual demeanor. "What have you two been up to?" I inquire, my tone light. Asher chuckles, taking a sip from his drink. "Just drinking and discussing pack security," he replies casually. I nod in understanding. Joan chimes in, adding, "We watched a movie and had some wine. It was a nice change of pace." I glance at Luke, noticing a flicker of concern in his eyes, but he remains silent, seemingly accepting our explanation. Asher nods in acknowledgment, his gaze lingering on me for a moment before returning to his conversation with Luke. With a sense of relief, Joan and I make our way inside the packhouse, leaving the men to their discussion. Inside the packhouse, Joan and I part ways, each heading to our respective rooms. As I walk alone, the weight of the secrets I carry feels heavier than ever. Guilt gnaws at me, knowing I'm keeping vital information from Asher, the Alpha who trusts me implicitly. But deep down, I understand the necessity of mastering my magic—it's not just about me; it's about protecting our pack. With a heavy heart, I enter my room, feeling the weight of responsibility settling upon my shoulders. Alone in the quiet of my sanctuary, I resolve to push forward, to embrace this journey of discovery and growth, no matter the sacrifices it may demand. For the safety and well-being of our pack, I must learn to control my powers, even if it means keeping secrets from those I love most.
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