Fated To Love You

Unexpected Trip.

(Anna)

As I lay in the comfort of my hotel bed, embraced by the softness of the sheets, a sudden crack of thunder reverberated through the air, jolting me awake from my peaceful slumber. In an instant, I found myself forcefully propelled out of the comfort of my bed, my heart racing with a mix of fear and excitement. The thunderstorm had unleashed its power, and I could feel the electricity in the air as each thunderclap echoed through the room. The darkness outside was illuminated intermittently by the flashes of lightning, casting eerie shadows on the walls. The storm had an undeniable presence, commanding my attention and demanding respect for the forces of nature.

The rhythmic pitter-patter against the windowpane was both soothing and invigorating, creating a sense of calm within the chaos of the storm. Intrigued by the intensity of the storm, I reached for my phone to check the time, curious to see how long this captivating display of nature had been going on for. As the screen illuminated with the soft glow, I discovered that it was late in the evening, the storm having engulfed the world around me for hours. The time seemed to fade away as I became entranced by the storm's melody, lost in its powerful embrace.

As the rain pounded against the windowpane, I lay in bed, wide awake, knowing that sleep would elude me for the remainder of the night. The storm outside raged on, thunder booming and lightning illuminating the darkness. Unable to bear the silence any longer, I reached for the remote and turned on the television.

The soft glow of the screen filled the room, providing a comforting presence amidst the chaos outside. I scrolled through the channels, searching for something to distract my restless mind. As the familiar theme song of a late-night talk show filled the air, I found peace in the laughter of the audience and the witty banter of the host.

The TV became my companion, offering a temporary escape from the storm's relentless assault on my senses. For a brief moment, the outside world faded away, replaced by the captivating stories and captivating visuals unfolding on the screen. While sleep remained elusive, the television provided a temporary respite, keeping me company until the storm eventually subsided.

As I closed my eyes and entered the realm of dreams, a subtle awareness washed over me. Deep within the back of my mind, I could sense the presence of Stella, my loyal wolf and guardian, fast asleep. A warm smile crept across my face, knowing that my inner wolf, with her fierce yet gentle spirit, was peacefully resting.

Stella had always been a symbol of strength and guidance, a constant source of comfort and protection. In times of uncertainty or darkness, her presence within me provided me with peace and reassurance. It was as if her slumber transcended the boundaries of my conscious mind, intertwining our spirits in a profound connection. I knew that as long as Stella slept, I could face any challenge that awaited me, for her dormant energy imbued me with a sense of lasting courage. With my heart full of gratitude, I drifted off into a peaceful sleep, knowing that my wolf was keeping watch, even in the depths of my subconscious.

As the morning sunlight gently streamed through my window, I could feel the warmth of a brand-new day enveloping me. With a yawn and a stretch, I reluctantly peeled myself away from the cozy embrace of the bed. Determined to start the day on a positive note, I reached for my gym clothes, neatly folded and waiting for me in the corner of the room. The act of dressing in athletic attire not only physically prepared me for a workout but also mentally geared me up for the challenges that lay ahead.

The choice to dress in gym clothes was a symbolic gesture, a commitment to prioritize my health and well-being. With each garment I slipped on, I could feel my energy levels rise, fueling the excitement for the activities that awaited me. It was as if the very act of getting dressed in my workout attire ignited a spark within me, summoning the motivation needed to conquer any obstacles that may come my way. And with a final adjustment of my tank top, I stepped out into the world, ready to embrace the day and all the possibilities it held.

You seem very energetic this morning. Is there a reason why? Stella asked.

I rolled my eyes, not wanting to say anything in the cab. The last thing I need is for the cab driver to think I'm a crazy person who talks to herself. Instead, I put my headphones in my ears and started to jam out to Linkin Park’s ‘In the end’ song. The driver pulled up to the gym and I handed him a 20, and got out.

I walked into the gym, smiling at the lady standing behind the desk, “good morning Anna, back for round two?” She asked.

“You know it, I can’t let these guys have all the glory now, can I?” I replied. I scanned my card and walked over to the weight, grabbing the matching forty-five pound drums, and began lifting. A few different men kept glancing my way. Obviously, they have never seen a girl lift so many weights before. I chuckled to myself.

After I finished my work-out, I walked over to the water fountain, filling up my bottle. Before I could even take a sip, this macho looking man walked over, trying to be super smooth (which I found revolting). He smiled at me, and the taste of vomit started to rise in my throat.

“Hey pretty lady, what’s your name?” He asked. The sweat smell coming off of him was revolting. I tried to be nice, but it didn’t seem to work.

“No hablo ingles lo siento.” I replied, not trying to converse with him.

“Oh you speak…um, spanish, sorry I didn’t realize it.” He said, walking away.

As if he could make us light up like a Christmas tree. Stella laughed out.

Ugg, and he thought he was all that and then some. I replied to her, chuckling as well.

I finally decided to take a moment for myself and quench my thirst. As I unscrewed the cap of my water bottle, I could hear the faint sound of the cool liquid inside, waiting to be released. With anticipation, I brought the bottle to my lips, feeling the refreshing touch of the water against my mouth. As the first drop touched my tongue, a wave of relief and satisfaction washed over me. The coolness of the water spread through my throat, soothing any parched sensation that had lingered throughout the day.

The vibration coming from the pocket of my leggings caught my attention. I quickly screwed the cap back on and saw my brother calling.

“What’s up bro?” I said, placing my water bottle down.

“Hey, so first I just want to warn you, mom is right next to me.” Alec said, and immediately I felt my heart skip a beat. Was I ready to talk to her? Was she mad at me that I left? So many questions, and yet I had none of the answers.

“Alec… I’m not mad, but if I’m forced to come back I WILL hang up.” I warned him.

“Fair enough, mom wants to talk to you first, before I talk…or request something of you.” Alec said. I sighed before greeting my mother on the phone, “hi…mom.”

“Anna, first let me apologize for not listening to you when you needed to be heard. I found out from a few of your friends that you were right, you were only defending yourself at the party. Jake was in the wrong, and he has been dealt with.” My mother said. I could hear the sadness in her voice, and my heart ached.

“Mom, thank you for that, really that means the world to me. For some reason, I feel a ‘but’ in there,” I said.

“Clever girl, as always. But I want you to come home. You have had your fun, and it is time to take responsibility-” I hung up the phone, cutting her off mid-sentence.

Momma’s getting sneaky. Stella hissed, and I agreed. But I wasn’t going to be forced against my will. This was my life and Alec and dad were on my side. My phone vibrated again, I looked down and, of course, Alec’s name was there.

“If I’m going to be forced to do something against my will, we can just end this conversation right now!” I snapped.

“Anna, it’s dad.” My father’s voice came through the phone, sparking a warm feeling deep within me.

“DAD!” I said with eagerness.

“Hey, kiddo. I’ll talk to your mother. You have nothing to worry about. I just wanted to say I miss you and love you. Here is Alec.” My father said, before Alec’s voice came back through the phone.

“I need a favor,” Alec asked. I held my breath and waited for his favor. “We received an invitation from the Sinclair family out in California, for their Founder’s ball. We are too busy here with everything going on and need someone from our household to represent us. Can you do it?”

“You want me to head to California, represent our family at a ball? Alec, you know i hate events like that, plus if I do go I have nowhere to stay while there,” I argued.

“It’s all taken care of. I’ve reached out to Cross Stone Pack, the western Kingdom. King Alpha Skylar and his Queen, Luna Selene, have offered to graciously host you.” Alec replied.

“It’s like this decision was made for me, with or without my approval,” I mocked.

“Look, I’m sorry to ask this of you, not as your brother this time, but as your Alpha.” The sternness that came with that, was almost like I was being commanded to go.

“Fine, when do I need to go?” I asked, but the moment I did I felt a tap on the back of my shoulder. I turned to see my brother’s best friend and Beta, Kevin Hogan, standing there.

“How…did you know where I was?” I asked, and my brother laughed.

“You're not as clever as you seem, sis. Hello, you’ve been using your credit card to pay for your hotel.” Alec said, laughing, “Your flight leaves tomorrow morning, have fun.” My brother ended the call, while I stood there standing next to Kevin, still holding the envelope in his hand.