The Mark

Let the party begin

Miles couldn’t breathe. He knew he acted like a freak, but the scent of another person on Kiara’s body was too much right now. It wasn’t helping that he knew, she’s worrying right now. He needs to come up with something, because he’s going to go all crazy soon. The best he could think of right now was to go to the library. There is not much information about werewolves in the internet, at least not true information. And library was the best option; they had lots of books and articles about lycan history, anatomy, biology, some of them were like case studies. There must be something about mating too.

It was a big roman style building with two columns in front of the entrance. He was in a rush and made noise while coming in, so the middle aged librarian gave him not really friendly look, but her face changed when she recognised rushing redhead.

“Miles? What are you doing here? Aren’t you supposed to be preparing to your party?” that was Amelia, she used to teach in Miles’ primary school. He remembered her very well. She was always nice and helpful, but really strict.

“Hi! Where can I find anything mating related?” he ignored her question. He didn’t want to be rude, but as much as he didn’t care for the party anymore, he did care about his sister. Meaning his mate. And he knew she is already worried, so didn’t want to make things worse, and the time was not his ally. He had maybe like 3 hours now.

Her teaching instincts almost won as she wanted to give him a lesson about ignoring questions, but seeing his red, panicked face, she knew that he is stressed out about something. And his question gave her a hint what’s causing the stress. She just showed him the lane, said “Let me know if you need anything” and left him alone.

He was thankful for her not to ask anything more. The lane wasn’t too big, but there must be something useful. He didn’t know where to start; actually Amelia could be helpful now, but what was he supposed to ask? Hey Amelia, any books on mating with your siblings? That wouldn’t sound too good. “I need to start from the beginning then” he thought to himself, and took the first book in the “A” shelf. To his surprise it had some answers;

“During my 60 years long career as what can be called Lycan Sociologist, not even once I’ve seen imprinting on a family member. Studying journals of my father and his father, who dedicated their life to the same matter, I’ve never encountered any case like that.”

He didn’t really know if that’s helpful or not, but he took another book. Before he opened it he felt an urge to talk to Kie, but he knew that it’s not a good idea now. He needed to focus. But she didn’t deserve to sit all day and worry about him.

“Don’t worry about me Kie. I just needed to do something before the party, see you soon.” he just slipped into her mind, and not letting himself get distracted too much, he opened the second book. Nothing. He spent there 2 hours, went through as many books as he could. There was just one conclusion. It’s impossible for siblings, or any other family members to be mates. It made him feel better, but more confused. He knew he needed to come back here and study more, but right now he had to come back and get ready. He could shift and run home, that would be the fastest way, but ripping of his clothes in the city centre didn’t sound like a good idea right now. Instead he called a taxi. He fastened a seatbelt and sank in his thoughts. What does it mean? Is she not my mate? Is she not my sister? How is that possible? Or maybe those books are wrong?

Either way it didn’t make this situation any less confusing. It took 10 minutes to get home. Miles paid the taxi driver and rushed home. He wasn’t inside yet, and he already felt Kiara’s scent, this time without any other disturbing smell. He entered the house and wanted to go straight to his room, but while going towards the stairs through the small hall between the kitchen and the living room, he noticed that the door to Sofia’s room was open, which was unusual. She rarely spends time in her own room, so he decided to go and check if everything is okay. He was hoping she’s not wasted; he didn’t need more things to worry about today. He knocked on the door ajar, and heard his mom bustling inside. She didn’t invite him inside; instead she came to see him, and closed the door behind her.

“Miles, honey” she hugged him. She acted normal, he didn’t know the reason for her sitting in her room, but at least she was sober. “Where have you been all day? I was worriedshe said still holding him, and after loosening her embrace she added “Happy birthday.”

“Thank you mom. I had to do something, before the party.” he replied, trying to sound normal. But she felt how tense he was.

“Is something bothering you?” She asked even though she was sure he wouldn't talk about it. At least not now. “Is that the party? I’ll be going to the hotel in like 20 minutes just to see if everything is ready and to start welcoming guests.” She added just to not make him more nervous.

“I’m just a little stressed, that’s it” he said.

“Do you know who it is? Your mate?” she risked asking that question. She wanted to give it a try, and his reaction was worrying her. He got tense and blushed, she could swear she saw tears coming to his eyes. But he tried to hide it, so she didn’t push more.

“Let’s talk later mom, I need to get ready” he hugged her, and then without waiting for her response almost run upstairs. Kiara’s scent was so strong now, that he could barely stop himself from bursting into her room. He went straight to his bathroom to take a shower. Cold water seemed like a good idea. And it turned out that it was indeed helpful. He could focus. Good for him, he didn’t have to do any make up. He took out his suit and the shirt from the wardrobe, but before he put clothes on, he needed to subdue his red curls. He didn’t do much, just used a paste which held his hair combed to the back, so they weren’t all over his face. His mom is probably at the hotel already, and it’s just 30 minutes to 8PM, so he should head there too. He looked in the mirror; it was difficult to look at himself, but – and he knew how stupid it was – he wanted to look good. Because Kiara will be there, and, well of course she won’t be interested in her brother that way, but still. His hair looked good, elegant black suit and dark green shirt. It was simple, but it did him justice; he looked unbelievably handsome. He was ready to leave his room, when he heard knocking. A wave of heat ran through his body, as he knew it’s Kiara. She didn’t wait for him to invite her, just came in.

“Well, hello birthday boy!” he couldn’t help but smile. She was so much more cheerful than in the morning. “You look really good. This colour suits you.” She added. Now he actually noticed how SHE looks, and he was speechless. Her long, red curls were half up with a green, satin bow. Her make-up was subtle, but the red lipstick emphasized her blue eyes. She probably had some foundation on, but it wasn’t too heavy, as her freckles were still visible. Her dress was just perfect for her body, it wasn’t too revealing, but she still looked beautiful and sexy. He blushed when he said this word in his mind, but he couldn’t help it. But the best part was when she jokingly turned around to do a little outfit show-off, and he noticed her naked back. How smooth her skin seemed to be. He didn’t know for how long he studied her look, but it must’ve been a while, because she said “Okay b-day boy, enough is enough. We need to go”. She came closer to him, and took his hand to lead him. When their skin touched, his legs bent for a second, but what was more important, he was sure, she felt something too. When she grabbed his hand, a spark came through her body, which was weird, but she ignored it. They have a place to be right now. They were still holding hands, and Miles was fighting with himself not to pull her closer to him. He was better, and better with this fighting; he was even able to focus enough to help her going down the stairs, as she was wearing golden high heels. They closed the front door behind them, and now were standing on the driveway, waiting for the taxi. It was supposed to be there in 5 minutes.

“You look great Kie.” He said, trying to be as casual as he could. He didn’t want to sound like a creep, aka a person who imprinted on his sister.

She smiled and to his relief didn’t seem weirded out. “You too Miles. Really.” She gave back a compliment, which made him blush. “Your mate will be a one lucky woman. Whoever she is.” She added, as she didn’t want him to feel obligated to say anything. His chest felt so heavy after she said that. He didn’t say anything.

The taxi arrived and they drove towards the hotel.

They spent the whole ride in silence, but it wasn’t awkward. Miles glanced at his sister every few seconds, hoping she wouldn’t notice. Kiara was looking out of the window and didn’t pay much attention to what he was doing right now, she was just happy that he’s there with her, and his behaviour isn’t so strange. Just a quick look to her right was enough to see that his behaviour is still in fact, very strange. Deep down she was still a little worried, but for now she wanted to keep it that way – deep down.

The taxi was almost at its destination when it started raining. They were on the hotel parking now ready to get out of the car. The entrance were about 20 yards from them, and Miles didn’t think much, took off his suit jacket and covered Kie with it, and they rushed towards the door.

“Thank you for that” she smiled and embraced him in his waist with one arm, which – again – caused a spark coming through her body. She giggled and jumped a little, which didn’t escape Miles’ attention. Of course for him it was much more intense, and he tried his best to hide it, but now he was sure, she felt something too. Well, almost sure. Definitely not sure enough to do anything about that, at least not yet. They were about to open the door when a familiar voice approached them from behind.

“Happy birthday big boy! Or should I wait until we’re inside?” said Lisa. She came closer and hugged him, pulling him away frhe wasn’t happy about, but what could he do?

“Thank you Lisa” he replied, trying to sound enthusiastic. “Let’s go inside” he added and locked arms with both girls leading them.

Sofia was waiting for them in the hotel hall sitting on one of the couches; it looked like she’s with someone. When she noticed them, she got up, and the mysterious couple did the same. It turned out that they were Alpha and Luna. They all looked tense, but when Alpha welcomed them, the atmosphere relaxed. Miles wanted to shake Alpha’s hand, but Dan pulled him and hugged instead, Luna did the same right after. He was surprised with this affection, but it was nice. He wasn’t even sure if Alpha will actually come.

All of them were going towards the ball room. Miles opened the glass door and let all the women and Alpha go first and then came in himself. It was already past 8PM, and almost every guest was already here. They welcomed him with a loud, synchronised “Happy birthday!”. The band started playing, but as there was dinner planned first, they weren’t too loud so people could talk. There were 20 round tables and every guest had their own place assigned. Miles was next to Kie, Lisa, his two friends from training and Tim. Now that he thought about it, it’s not really convenient for him, but it’s too late to change anything now. People tried to get to Miles, although presents and a cake were planned for later. Some people were standing in groups, talking and laughing, but waiters started bringing food, so everyone went back to their tables.

“Hey bro, it was hard to get to you! Happy birthday!” It was Tim. First thing that came to Miles’ mind was to rip his head off, but somehow he managed to stay decent. It was his friend, and it wasn’t his fault.

“Thank you Tim.” They even hugged. But it wasn’t just about last night, Tim and Kie were exchanging those smiles, and looks, and that bothered him even more. Not only him – Lisa was looking like she’s planning a murder right now, and she probably didn’t even know about what happened. He was looking at his sisters’ ex and something hit him. That one time when Kie mind linked him by accident, while having s*x with Lisa… was that a sign? He felt weird, he thought, he’s jealous of Lisa, but he didn’t know yet. That was not a good time to remind him about that. He couldn’t stop thinking about those images, and it felt good to have those, but it still felt disgusting to feel that way about Kie.

They ate dinner, and the band started playing louder, finally a leader said to the microphone “Welcome everyone, we’re here today to celebrate our friend’s birthday!” The crowd applauded, and the singer continued “As we all know, this is quite a special birthday, as finally you'll be able to meet your mate!” The crowd cheered again, even louder, and Miles dying inside, completely panicked. “So Miles, if you’ve met your mate yet, now it’s the time to tell the world. That song is for you!”

Fuck, f**k, f**k! Think, Miles, think!

He got up from the chair, every person looking at him very carefully. All women in the ballroom that weren’t mated yet, had eyes filled with hope.

“Unfortunately I wasn’t lucky enough to meet my mate. Yet!” he said and some people sighed, some laughed “But I will gladly show you my ASTONISHING dance moves.” Now everyone was cheering and laughing. “And my sister will accompany me, of course!” he added, before he even thought about it. Everyone was clapping as they were going towards the centre of the ballroom. The band started playing, and Miles with Kie dancing. He was stressed that he’s too affectionate, but it was quite a slow song, and everyone was smiling, some people joined the dance floor, so it was all fine. Kiara seemed happy too. It was bitter sweet, he could hug and touch her, but it wasn’t so good when she didn’t know the truth.

Kie didn’t know what’s going on, but now while dancing with her brother; she felt that little spark all the time. Two times might’ve been a coincidence, but now? It was nice, but weird at the same time.

They kept dancing, even Alpha and Luna joined. Miles wasn’t sure if he’s being paranoid, but he felt Dan’s eyes on him. “I’m probably paranoid” he thought, and it turned out Kie heard that, which wasn’t his intention.

“About what?” she replied thinking her brother actually wanted to talk.

He didn’t know what to do, but decided just to tell the truth. He didn’t have to tell everything.

“I think Alpha is watching me. Or us, I don’t know” he said telepathically. He was insecure waiting for her response. There is no way she knows she's his mate, but he’s now stressed to do anything that would point to this. She didn’t say anything, just kept dancing. That was their fourth song together, and Miles was ecstatic being able to be so close to Kiara, but nothing good lasts forever. Tim approached them and asked Kie to dance. It hurt to see her smile, but what could he do? He bit his tongue and forced himself to smile. He couldn’t go too deep into his pain as Luna approached him and without asking, pulled him, starting to dance. Dan was looking at them. He’s not paranoid, he’s being watched. Does he know? What’s going on? Now while dancing with Celeste, he had to do his best to act like everything was fine.

Meanwhile Kiara was in Tim’s embrace. She was happy he’s not too affectionate, as Lisa was there, and they weren’t anything official. They were just dancing, but it felt nice.

“You look beautiful” he said to her. He was looking really good too. He was all black with his sleeves rolled up to the elbows. Nothing too fancy, but that suits him.

She blushed and said “Thank you. You look good too”. He smiled, and bent over to whisper to her ear “I wish I could kiss you now.” Now she blushed even more. She wouldn’t mind, but the timing wasn’t great. “Last night was great, but…” she started, but he interrupted “But… there is always a ‘but’” he didn’t seem angry, or even disappointed. He was expecting that turn of events. “Look, Lisa is here. We broke up yesterday, and even though I don't love her the way she would want me to love her, I still care about her. I don’t want to hurt her any more. But I do like you. And I’m not saying no. I’m just saying not today.” She said to him, Tim was surprised to hear that, he was sure that would be just a one night stand for her. “I don’t want to push you. Just know, I’m here.” He replied and they kept dancing.