Chapter 1 Prologue

"Dad! Please wake up!" I screamed out as I shook his limp body. I didn't understand what was going on. He only left to hunt for food. I was supposed to stay in our little cottage and wait for him to return but after the sun started to set, I became worried and went out to look for him. Then I smelt so much blood. I knew instantly who it belonged to. I remember the training my father gave me and a constant reminder that if something ever happened to him, he wanted me to run away and keep moving and not to let anyone ever catch me. Yet I couldn't bring myself to do that. I needed my father. I fully expected my wolf to argue with me, but she just whimpered in my head and didn't say anything.  When I found him, I knew immediately he was dead, his throat had been ripped open and he was covered in blood. "Daddy, please... I still need you!" I cried out as my heart felt as if it was being crushed. I tried listening for a heartbeat, knowing it was futile. The only thing I heard was my own erratic heartbeat and my wolf whimpering. Leaning over his body I began to cry. Darkness fell over the forest and the feeling of dread started to creep through me. This quickly perked up my wolf and she spoke urgently into my head. "Kyra! Get up and run! Now!" I didn't argue, I quickly took off running back towards the cottage to grab the escape bag that my father had prepared for me. We knew it was just a matter of time before something like this would happen. So, while I was prepared, it still wasn't any easier and we both had hoped we'd have more time. It had been fourteen years since my father, and I went rogue. The night I had been born had been on a full moon. The circumstances of my birth were completely unheard of. While most didn't shift until their eighteenth birthday, I had shifted immediately after I had been born. Not only that, but I had shifted into a pure white wolf. Wolves were typically brown or grey. Some were even black or mixed colors. It was unheard of to be a pure white wolf. My parents knew immediately that it wasn't safe to stay in the Blood Moon Pack. When they tried to leave, the Alpha had tried to kill me. He claimed I was an abomination. My mother urged my father to keep me safe and that he was the only one that could do that. He hadn't wanted to but he couldn't deny her. They both knew that in order for me to survive he had to be the one to train me. She had stayed behind to fight them off to give us a chance to escape. She was a skilled fighter and had been the only female warrior in the pack. Yet my father had alpha blood and was the beta of the Blood Moon Pack. He was the best and the obvious choice to train me. My father didn't believe my mother was dead because when a mate dies a part of the other dies with them and they are never whole again. My father missed her, but he says he can still feel her. For fourteen years we've been on the run. Now, whether I was ready or not I had to go on without him. I still had my wolf with me and with her, I would never truly be alone. The moment I reached the cottage I heard a howl in the distance. I couldn't take any chances. I quickly found the bag and stripped out of my clothes and placed them into the bag. Effortlessly I shifted into my large white wolf, Alexia. Picking up the bag with our teeth, we took off running. "Where are we going to go, Alexia?" I asked my wolf. Unsure of what our plan would be now that my father was no longer here to lead the way. "I don't know. We will have to rely on our instincts and trust the Moon Goddess." I still couldn't figure out how her trust in the Moon Goddess was absolute. I just couldn't fathom why the Moon Goddess would make me into a freak. I would never know true peace and I would forever be on the run. Never belonging anywhere. We were not destined to find happiness or find our mate. Others would either fear us or hate us. Alexia believes that we are destined for something great, but she does agree that we will probably never get a mate. We kept running, the sound of howling was becoming more distant. Our pace began to slow slightly so we could listen better to our surroundings and try to determine which direction we should go. Just when we thought we were clear, a large brown wolf came barreling towards us. It struck our side and caused us to get slammed into a tree. Slightly dazed, we shook our head and quickly recovered to face the wolf that attacked us. He was a rogue wolf. His stench was overwhelming, it smelled of old blood and rot. Most rogues become a shell of their former selves and are unhinged. They are truly disgusting and can barely retain their humanity. Without a pack, wolves tend to become rabid. Though for some reason my father and I never had that effect.  My father did smell like a rogue, but he still had his humanity. We figured it was because of his need to protect me is why he never utterly lost his true self. As for me, well we didn't know why I didn't smell like a rogue or act like one. Perhaps it's because I truly never belonged to a pack. My scent was off though. I didn't smell like a pack wolf either. I didn't know why this rogue wolf disgusted me so much, perhaps I had grown accustomed to my father's smell and it didn't bother me at all. This rogue on the other hand had me wanting to throw up. Trying to ignore the stench, my wolf and I focused on the rogue as it paced in front of us. Digging our hind legs into the soil beneath us, we prepared for the rogue to lunge at us again. He was feral and his movements were erratic. There was no telling what he was going to do. We kept our stance, letting off a warning growl to the rogue that we were not going to give in so easily. That was enough for the rogue to lunge toward us. Using our hind legs, we pushed out towards the rogue. The look of surprise flashed across his pale brown eyes. It seemed as if a part of him realized he was no match for us. While the other part of him didn't care and only seen an enemy. We crashed into each other with such a force that it caused the rogue to whimper. We were unfazed and quickly rolled the rogue onto its back and latched onto its neck. Without hesitating, we ripped its throat out. Only staying long enough to make sure it was dead, we quickly gathered the bag that fell when we first encountered the rogue and darted through the forest again. This time we didn't bother to slow down. We kept running and tried to keep out of other territories and change directions as often as possible to avoid being followed. At this point, we were unsure if we were being followed. We weren't taking any chances. After miles of covered ground and running nonstop for seven hours, we needed to stop. We found ourselves near a cave with a stream of water running into it. This was probably going to be our best place to rest. Doing a wide circle around the area, we didn't sense anything, and it appeared to be clear. Before entering the cave, we looked around for something to eat and only managed to find a squirrel. It wasn't much but it would do for now. The moment we entered the cave carrying the bag and squirrel we collapsed onto the ground. That was the longest run we've ever done and regardless of how amazing our endurance and stamina were, we were exhausted. It was slightly more painful than usual to shift back. Every muscle in my body ached. I crawled over to the stream of water in the cave and slowly eased myself in. The cool water was heavenly. I let out a slight sigh as I leaned my head against the rock I was sitting against and let the water soothe me. As I sat there, my thoughts automatically went to my father. Without realizing it, tears flowed down my face, my chest became tight. I felt the desperate need to just give up and just let everything be over. "Kyra... we can't give up..." My wolf whispered to me and while I knew she was right, I felt helpless. I was tired of running. I was scared and lonely. I was only fourteen and I still had much to learn. "What will we do Alexia?""I don't know yet. We just need to rest and figure it out in the morning." Without answering I climbed out of the water and got dressed. Not caring that I was still wet, and my clothes were now soaked. I looked around the cave and decided I needed to go further back so I can stay hidden better. I could see clearly in the dark and the cave was rather deep. After looking around a bit I realized this was a good place to stay camped out for maybe a couple of days or so. It was like a maze. It was bigger than it originally appeared. There were a lot of holes in the wall that was just large enough that I could climb in. I was small in my human form and even I had to squeeze through the holes. It was a really good spot and if I'm careful I may be able to stay here for a while. After going through a small tunnel, I had to crawl through I found myself in an open space within the cave with a water hole. There was only one way in and out of this area and unless someone was as small as I was, there was no way they could get in here. I decided that I was going to stay here as long as I could, for as long as it was safe. I would look around more tomorrow. I knew it wasn't safe to stay in a place for too long, but this was probably the best place I'd find that would give me adequate protection. It would at least give me a place to lay low for a little while. Going back outside I looked around for enough sticks to create a fire to cook the squirrel. "I am going to have to leave you for a little bit. My energy is fading. I need to restore my strength. Will you be okay?" My wolf's words caught me off guard and I jumped slightly. I didn't like the fact I wouldn't have her here with me for a bit, but I knew I was going to need her at her best. I still possessed her strength and speed, in my human form. But if we were going to survive this, we both had to be at our best. I didn't like the thought of not being able to talk to her, but I knew she would always be with me. "I understand. I will keep us safe. Take the time you need.""That's my girl. Remember I'll be there if you need me. I'll never truly leave you. Just going to rest. Shouldn't be longer than a couple of days. Stay safe Kyra. I love you.""I love you too Alexia. You're all I have now. I'll keep you safe." I soon felt her move to the back of my mind, and I could no longer hear her or connect with her, but I could still sense her. After everything that has happened, I was glad to still have that at least. Yet I still felt alone. I no longer had an appetite, but I cooked the squirrel anyways and ate it. I didn't seem to taste it much, I just knew I needed to keep my strength up. Who knows what will happen in the oncoming days. I just hoped that whatever it is, I can get through it. Putting out the fire, I crawled over to my bag and laid down. Using the bag as a pillow I curled up on the ground, hugging my knees to my chest, I started crying again. I cried for my dad, my mom, myself, and my wolf. I just wanted peace. I wanted to not be alone. After what seems like forever, I finally drift off to sleep, only to be plagued with the beginning of my night terrors.

Chapter 2 Chapter One

Four years later Kyra- How much longer must this go on for? I'll be eighteen in a couple of weeks and yet I have once again just evaded a rogue trying to kill me. At this rate, I'm starting to believe that there will no longer be any rogues left if they keep attacking me this way. I am tired, hungry and even with our unique healing abilities, it's getting harder to heal. My wolf and I are barely speaking because for the past two years I've been fending off attacks almost on a daily. Not to mention we are using more energy just fighting off the elements and trying to keep our strength up from barely eating. At this rate, we didn't know if maybe we were just unlucky, or my father was just really good at taking care of us. No matter how long or how fast I ran, I was constantly running into trouble. I haven't heard from my wolf in nearly three months. I could still feel her, so there was comfort in that. I can feel that she is still weak from the group of rogues we faced, and it was getting harder to keep fighting. I've not been able to shift for months, so I've been fighting off wolves in my human form. I all but crawled to a small clearing in the middle of the woods. I clutched my left side that had a deep gash that went from my ribcage down to my hip. I was losing too much blood. If I didn't try to get the bleeding to stop soon, I was going to pass out. Grabbing my bag, I looked for my knife. Finding it, I tried to start a fire so I could burn the flesh to stop the bleeding. My head was starting to spin, and I felt like I was starting to lose consciousness. Finally, I had a fire going and heated up the metal. I put the strap of my bag in my mouth to bite down on before I pressed the hot metal to the top of my gash. The pain was unbearable. I let out a scream as I felt my flesh being scorched. Instantly regretting it, because just before passing out, I heard a howl of a nearby wolf. My thoughts quickly shifted to my wolf. "I've failed you, Alexia..." Hunter- Caleb, my beta, and I were chasing a group of rogues that tried to enter my territory. I couldn't stand rogues. They were disgusting creatures, and they had no care for anything. They are what killed my brother eight years ago. Right before we caught up to them, one of them let out a howl and changed directions. Without missing a beat, we kept chasing them. I wondered where they were going when they suddenly stopped. Caleb and I both were caught off guard and ran past them. When we turned back around they were circling something. I didn't even care, they were distracted, and it was my chance. I was just about to launch onto them when suddenly my wolf dug his claws into the ground and refused to move. "Ace stop it! This is our chance!" I yelled at my wolf, getting irritated with him. Even Caleb's wolf stood his ground. What the hell was going on? My wolf didn't pay attention to me. "Hunter. It's the girl. My wolf is worried that if we attack, the girl will get hurt." My Beta mind linked me. Not paying attention to what the rogues were distracted by, I hadn't even noticed. Turning my attention towards her, wondering why she would be here and why both our wolves would take that much caution towards her. I couldn't see much, but I did smell fresh blood and she appeared to be unmoving. I couldn't tell if she was a rogue or not, it was hard to pick out her scent over the scent of rogues. I tried to force my wolf to advance on the rogues. "NO!" My wolf snarled at me, keeping his ground. Just then more of the pack arrived and I was relieved. They would take the rogues out. Or so I thought. All seven pack members stopped dead in their tracks. What the hell is going on? I could hear my pack members getting confused and asking what was going on through the mind link, but I was clueless. I just stood there watching the rogues feeling my rage build. Only when one of the rogues lunged at the girl, did everyone move. It was like our wolves took over completely. They all went after the one rogue that lunged at the girl, paying no mind to the other two. Hell, I was simply happy that we were attacking. As soon as we ripped the rogue apart from limb to limb, the other rogues took off. Everyone went after the two rogues except for myself and Caleb. My wolf was determined to stay. Apparently so was Caleb's. We both shifted into our human forms. "What the hell is going on man?" Caleb asked me as we both just looked at her. She looked malnourished but she didn't look frail. If anything, she looked strong and capable. I could see the gash she had on her side that she apparently tried burning. It's probably what caused her to pass out. I heard a slight heartbeat, but it was weak. I couldn't see her face, it was covered in dirt and blood, though I imagine she was probably beautiful. "I don't know. Everyone had the same reaction to her, but nobody knew what was going on. Ace isn't telling me anything. What did your wolf say?" I answered my Beta but didn't look up at him, I was still trying to figure out what to do with the girl. My wolf wasn't telling me what was going on and I was a bit pissed off at him anyway. "He just says to protect. It's weird. I have this urge to protect her, but I don't know why. She doesn't smell like a rogue, but she doesn't smell like she belongs to a pack. She doesn't smell right. I can sense her wolf, but she isn't a member of the pack. There is something about her that makes me want to run the opposite direction." As an Alpha, my duty was to my pack first and foremost. This girl was an unknown and could be a danger to the pack. I couldn't risk it. I knew we had to leave her there. "Let's leave her. She is as good as dead anyway." As I spoke the words, I felt my wolf emerge as anger that wasn't my own filled me. Searing pain shot through my head and I was brought to my knees. "You will not leave. You will protect. If she dies, I'll kill you myself." Never in my life did I think it was possible for a wolf to cause his human counterpart pain and cause them to yield to an Alpha. Granted as an Alpha I didn't have to obey the command my wolf gave me, but it still gave me pause. "You've no power over me. What the hell Ace? What is so important about this girl?" I asked as I stood up. "You aren't paying attention and you're being a damn fool. Now get her to the pack hospital now!" My wolf was known for his anger, but never once has it ever affected me. Until now, we had been close but now he is just giving me commands and cutting me off without explanation. Well, standing here is going to accomplish nothing. I crouched down next to the girl and was just about to touch her when my Beta growled at me. Glaring at Caleb he took a step back as if shocked at what he did. Shaking my head, I reached out to carefully lift the girl. The moment my skin came into contact with hers, I felt immense pleasure course through me.  Like small static currents flooding my senses. I knew instantly what that meant. "Mate!" I growled out the word as if a primal urge took over me. Understanding what my wolf meant. I hadn't been paying attention, I was so focused on being mad at my wolf that I didn't try to connect with her wolf. I relied on my Beta's words and never thought to check myself. I didn't try to check her smell. Now I smelled as if I was being surrounded by fresh spring water and lavender. Without trying to delay anymore, I carefully lifted her into my arms. As I lifted her, she groaned slightly but remained unconscious. Thankfully, we weren't far from the west entrance of the pack territory where the packhouse and the pack doctor were. Caleb picked up the stuff that was near her on the ground and we made our way as quickly towards the packhouse. I just pray we make it in time. I can't lose her now. I felt stupid for not being able to notice sooner. Could my delay cause her death? I hope not. Though if she dies, I'll gladly let my wolf kill me as he threatened. Mates were sacred and to find a true mate was not common. Most just accepted a chosen mate and they were content. In fact, I was just about to accept a chosen mate for the sake of the pack. No pack is truly strong without their Luna. I had waited five years for a chance to find my fated mate, but I gave up hope and chose one. The ceremony had been set. Running into the packhouse, I made my way towards the hospital wing of the house. I didn't even care as I passed by pack members, that I was still fully naked. As a werewolf, modesty just wasn't something we cared about. "Alpha, the Beta warned me that you were on your way, please place her here." The pack doctor motioned towards a stretcher. Carefully I placed her down and fear filled me. She was deathly pale and barely breathing. It was getting harder to distinguish a heartbeat. "I will take care of the future Luna, Alpha, I give you my word." The doctor said as he wheeled her into the surgical room. Soon a fully clothed Caleb came towards me carrying some clothes and the girl's bag. Quickly I changed, then grabbed the bag. I needed to know more about her. In the bag, I found a couple of changes of clothes, a necklace, a couple of knives, a journal, a letter that looked like it had been read a hundred times or more, and a pill bottle. Opening the pill bottle, I smelled the contents as soon as I opened the cap, wolfsbane. I didn't know why she had it, but it was lethal to wolves. I pocketed the pill bottle and then picked up the letter. Careful not to tear the fragile paper, I opened it to read the contents. "Kyra, If you are reading this then it means I am no longer able to take care of you. I love you more than words can express, and I wish we had more time. I know you will be fine on your own, I trained you well. You are brave, beautiful, and strong, just like your mother and I know she would be proud of the daughter you've become. I know I am. Trust in the Moon Goddess, she will guide you. Always remember that I will always be with you in spirit. Alexia, keep each other safe, she will need you now more than ever. I love you both. Keep running, don't look back. You're special and going to go far in this world. Love always, DAD." Kyra, that was her name. It was beautiful. Just knowing her name brought a calmness over me. Though the rest of the letter was troubling, what or who is she running from? Obviously, she is a rogue but doesn't smell like one. Putting the paper back, I thought about reading the journal but decided against it. I wanted her trust and from the letter, it wasn't going to be easy. Instead, I put everything back and started to pace. "Are we going to tell everyone she is your fated mate?" Caleb's mind linked me. I thought about it for a moment but decided it probably wasn't a good idea until after she woke up and we learned more. "No. We keep it to ourselves for now." Caleb merely nodded his head. He was loyal to a fault and perhaps the most steadfast member. I can always count on him to have my back.

Chapter 3 Chapter Two

Kyra- "Kyra, please open your eyes." The masculine voice that filled my head was strange. I've never heard that voice before.  Looking around I don't see anything but pitch-black darkness. Where was I?  I tried to remember something, anything. Yet everything eluded me. Who was Kyra? Was that me? "Hello? Is anyone there?" As I spoke, the only thing I could hear was an echo of my own voice. I was alone. I didn't like the idea of being alone, but oddly enough it didn't seem to feel wrong. What was this place? No idea of which way I needed to go, I just started walking. Just point my toes in a direction and let my feet carry me forward. I felt uneasy and scared. I didn't know where I was or who I was. I just kept walking. Kept searching for something. Anything to tell me who I was. This place seemed off like it shouldn't exist. I walked for what seemed like hours, feeling hopeless. I was truly and utterly alone. Falling down to my knees I wrapped my arms around myself and hugged my midsection as I began to sob uncontrollably. "Kyra... come on baby... wake up... I can feel your despair. Please open your eyes. You aren't alone anymore." There was that voice again. I didn't feel like I knew the voice, but I found comfort in his words. Even a sense of calmness washes over me at the sound of his voice. Drying my eyes, I looked around and seen nothing. I couldn't even tell which direction the voice was coming from. Perhaps I imagined it and I am truly alone. "He's right you know, you aren't alone. Never were." This time I hear a female voice, I felt like I knew the voice. Turning around I come face to face with a beautiful white wolf. She was beautiful and while I expected to feel fear, I felt joy. She was so big, she was about my height, even on all fours. Shouldn't wolves be smaller? Yet, she was huge. Her eyes even glowed a beautiful emerald green.  I don't think I have ever seen anything so amazing.  Standing up, I approached her slowly. "Was that your voice?" I asked the wolf, and she tilted her head towards me. As I got closer to her, she nudged me lovingly with her nose. "Yes Kyra, it is my voice." I felt the urge to hug her. Leaning into her I felt safe like she was the other half of my soul. I felt comfort in her. I didn't find it strange that I was talking to a wolf, or that a wolf was talking to me. "What is your name?""I am Alexia, I am your wolf. I live inside of you." Confused, I stepped back, and I suddenly felt alone again. Even Alexia whimpered as I stepped away. Regardless of how I felt, I stayed resolved to keep my distance for now. "How is that possible? You are standing in front of me." Concern fell over her features and a hint of remorse, at my question.  I wanted to comfort her, but I needed to know what was going on. I felt a connection to her and while I believed what she was telling me, I didn't understand. "You are unconscious. You were attacked by a rogue werewolf and I was unable to be there for you. You passed out and then you were found by a pack of wolves. They treated you and I've regained enough strength to fully heal you, but you remain unconscious. You are currently within your own mind with me. You shouldn't be here." I tried to remember what she was telling me, but I couldn't. Or maybe I didn't want to remember if what she was telling me was true. I wanted to stay here. It was safe here. "Kyra, I need you to open your eyes..." There was that voice again.  It made me feel calm, but I didn't feel like I knew the voice. "Who was that?" I asked my wolf, hoping I could understand why the voice made me feel calm. "He is the Alpha of the Night Blaze pack. The ones who found us and saved us. I don't know much about him. I don't understand why he cares for us so. His wolf talks to me, but I can't respond to him. Not while you are here. We both can not remain here. He keeps trying to wake us.""How do I wake up?""I don't know, but you need to.""Can't I just stay here with you?" She moves closer to me and rests her head on my shoulder and nuzzles my neck. The moment she does, I feel whole again, like she is a part of me, and we need to be together. I wrap my arms around her neck and am wrapped up in the most serene warmth imaginable. Her fur so silky soft, I wish to remain there forever. "I wish you could, I love being able to be here with you like this, but you can't stay. It isn't safe for you here. You're too vulnerable like this. I need you to find the will to wake up. I will always be with you." Hunter- It's been three days. She is fully healed, but she still hasn't woken up. Medically there was no reason for her to still be unconscious. Dr. John has been working day and night trying to find a solution. I've basically taken up residents at her bedside. I've even gone as far as turning the nightstand into a desk to continue working on my Alpha duties. Training has been postponed even. No one can seem to focus. The pack members still don't know that she is my fated mate but they feel an odd sense of duty to her. Everyone has been taking shifts outside of the room, I transferred her to once the doctor gave the clear, to stand guard. No one could understand why we all had this unknown urge to protect her. My Beta and I suspected it was due to her being my fated mate, but that didn't make sense either. She wasn't the Luna yet, so there was no reason for them to feel that way. They had no loyalty to her and yet even those that haven't met her, felt drawn to protect her. It wasn't normal at all. Gently I brushed my knuckles over her jawline and whispered to her for what seemed like the millionth time. "Open your eyes little one, I need you to wake up." She has yet to react to my touch. Wolves can sense their fated mate after they turn eighteen and as a fated mate my touch should have received some sort of reaction from her. The mate pull was strong, and I had hoped that I could somehow reach her and elicit a reaction, even a flick of the finger would be better than nothing. She just laid there, completely unmoving.  My wolf thinks that the trauma has her locked in her own mind. He still can't get a response from her wolf either, but we can both feel her. There was something truly special about this girl. There was a power that radiated off her that was unlike anything I've ever felt from someone that wasn't an alpha. After she had been cleaned up, I was shocked. I've never in my life seen such a stunningly beautiful creature. Her features were soft and angelic. Even her hair was silky smooth after just one wash. It was the color of chocolate caramel. Her skin was similar to the shade of honey, darkened slightly from exposure to the sun, but not overly so.  It was strange how even after however long she has been a rogue, for her to look as if the world outside never damaged her beauty. There was so much I couldn't understand about her and I could only hope that soon she would wake up.  I had too many questions that needed answering. "She's about to wake up. I can hear her wolf. They don't trust us." At my wolf's words, I grabbed Kyra's hand and held onto it gently. Hoping to calm her as she woke. I needed her to know she was safe. Also hoping she would recognize the mate pull. Me being knocked out of my chair and onto my back, as my beautiful mate shifted into a large white wolf, was not what I was expecting. I was definitely shocked at her wolf and I had never seen one like her. She was magnificent. Kyra- The moment I remembered everything about who I was, I had been thrown into the forefront of my mind and slowly regained consciousness. Though before I woke up fully, my wolf and I had to figure out what to do. We were in a pack territory and packs were worse than rogues. They were smart and organized. They felt fear and that made them dangerous, fear caused others to act irrationally. They either wanted to capture or kill us. At least with rogues, we understood their desire to kill us. They hated us because unlike them we could function without a pack. Alpha's only wanted to use or abuse the power I possessed, and others wanted to kill us because we were an abomination. So, when I learned where we were, our only solution was to shift. It was our best chance of escaping. As we pinned the Alpha on the floor, I felt slightly hesitant. He didn't seem like a threat, he was calm. A bit surprised maybe, but calm. He didn't even try to escape. Even as we snapped at him, he just smiled. Was he a lunatic? Who just smiles while they are being attacked? Even my wolf was hesitating.  Slowly we moved off the Alpha and backed away.  We fully expected him to shift but he just looked at my wolf in amazement. "I will not hurt you. My name is Hunter, and you are my fated mate. Please do not fear me. I would like to talk to you, can you please shift back?" His voice. That was the voice I kept hearing that had a calming effect on me. But wait, did he just say I was his fated mate? This can't be possible. "Kyra it has to be a trick. I don't feel the mate pull. We need to get out of here." I didn't need to question my wolf. Quickly we run for the window. Luckily, it was open. Without delay, we quickly jump out and take off towards the forest. Looking over our shoulder, we were stunned to find a large pure black wolf giving chase to us. He was larger than my wolf and while my wolf was unheard of, his wolf was rare. There have only been three black wolves noted in history. After running a good distance into the forest, I heard howling surrounding us. We quickly skidded to a stop, unsure of what direction to go. Stepping into view in human form wearing a pair of black shorts and a white shirt, was non-other than Hunter. He seemed calm, a little too calm. We felt no malice from him. Normally we could feel the intentions of others. Though now we were simply confused. What did he want with us? "What do we do now?" I asked Alexia, as we both started to panic. We weren't strong enough to take on his entire pack.  The thought of being captured was terrifying and while death seemed almost welcoming at this point. I had made a promise. "Kyra, Alexia, please give us a chance to earn your trust. We won't hurt you. We only want to protect you." Hunter spoke before Alexia could respond and it gave both of us pause. I so desperately wanted to believe him. I was tired of running. I just wanted to belong. "Alexia, what if...""Don't even think about it. We both know we can't trust an Alpha. They think we are an abomination. They will kill us or use us. They don't care about us. We only have each other." My wolf was right. I guess a part of me was just growing tired of it all. Before we had a chance to react, a rogue had come barreling out behind a tree and latch himself onto my Alexia's hind leg. We let out a howl of pain and couldn't seem to shake him off. A deep growl emitted from Hunter as he flung himself onto the back of the rogue. His fist slams into its skull, trying to get it to release us. It didn't seem to faze the rogue, he held on as if his life depended on it. "Release my mate you mangy mutt." It was as if he only wanted to keep me safe and the mere possibility of me getting hurt cause him to become enraged. My father had been protective like that. I recognize the fear and protectiveness that engulfed him, I had seen it many times growing up. He was fierce in his attempts to get the rogue off us, and his deep blue eyes darkened as his wolf came forward. It was as if they were both in command at the same time. Neither my wolf nor I could fathom why an alpha was trying to protect us. In our past, any other alpha would have let the rogue kill us. Did he really believe I was his mate? Could he really be my mate? Finally, the rogue released his hold on us and turned his attention onto Hunter. We immediately reacted and pulled the rogue off him. I didn't understand why I felt the need to try to protect him. Even Alexia growled when the rogue had turned on Hunter. Latching onto its throat, we tore through his flesh. Though we didn't stop there, almost as if we were driven to devour the rogue completely, we kept tearing into it. Completely blinded by rage. When we finally pulled away, we were panting, trying to calm down. The smell of rotten blood was heavy in the air. As soon as our breathing evened out, my wolf collapsed. The last thing I heard before we passed out was the reassuring voice of Hunter. "Rest now little one, you are safe now."

Chapter 4 Chapter Three

Kyra- -Dream- "No, we can't tell her Alice. She cannot know." I heard my father talking softly, just outside of the apartment we were staying in. I'm not sure if he knew he left the door opened slightly, but I could hear him clearly as if he were standing right in front of me. He sounded distressed as he spoke to whoever was on the phone. I hadn't even known he had a phone. He had told me it was too dangerous to leave a trail for someone to find us. "I don't care, Alice, she needs me. Where was Selene when she was being hunted by the others? Who raised her as their own? She is my daughter." My father told whoever was on the phone. I wasn't sure what had him so upset, I wanted to go out to comfort him. Something in me just couldn't do that, I tried to see if I could hear whoever he was talking to. I heard a female voice, but couldn't understand what she was saying. It was as if they were intentionally distorting their voice. "I'm not coming back, it isn't safe for her. I'm all that she has ever known. She trusts me. I will keep her safe." He told the female on the other end. I am only six, but I understand enough to know that whatever he was talking about it involved me. I just didn't know what he was talking about, was there someone else he was talking about, and who was this Selene person. "Selene is the Moon Goddess, but why is your dad talking about her?" My wolf asked, obviously also curious about his conversation with the mystery caller. "I don't know Alexia, I can't hear who daddy is talking to." I whispered to her as I continued to try to listen more. "I love you, but she needs me. We both understood what we were getting into when Selene asked us. It wasn’t supposed to happen this way. How were we to know your dad was going to try to kill her?" His voice was becoming louder as he continued to speak. "Look I'll call you when I can, but I will not bring her back. If he wants her, he's going to have to catch me and kill me. I will not return until after she turns eighteen." He opened the door to the apartment and I pretended to focus on the picture I was drawing. He came to sit on the couch right next to me and I could feel his gaze on me. I didn't dare look up, I don't know what he was talking about, but I was pretty sure I wasn't supposed to have heard him. "Kyra?" He spoke softly. "Yes, daddy?" I looked up at him and I saw it written all over his face. We were going to have to run again. I had just hoped we were done running. "We need to pack it up sweetheart, it's time for us to go. Only take what we need." He looked down at the notebook I was drawing in and I felt my heart sink. I loved to draw and when he gave the notebook to me after we moved into the apartment, it had been the best day of my life. I set the notebook down and nodded my head as I got up to pack up my bag. I tried to hold back the tears that threatened to fall. I would only be punished if he saw me cry. Tears are for the weak and I could not be weak, he would tell me. -End Dream- This time I woke up alone. I was in a different room than before. I laid on a large bed, wrapped up in dark grey silk sheets and a black comforter. My thoughts going to the dream I had, I felt tears slip from my eyes and I quickly swiped them away. I remembered the day vividly, but I was never able to figure out who he had been talking to. After that, we stayed out of the city and we never stayed longer than a week anywhere else we went. I trust and loved my dad and whatever he had been talking about, he kept me safe and loved me, so I never let it. He made me strong. Shaking off the dream, I sat up. I couldn't continue looking back, I had to keep moving forward. I looked around the room. It was a large room, but it felt dark and dreary. Not a single portrait or art covered the light grey walls. All furniture was black Not a single item sat on the black dresser on the far side of the room. Even the large, oversized chair, that sat next to the window, was black. I wasn't sure if this room was his or not. I suspected it probably was. I moved slowly from the bed, careful not to make a sound. I noticed I was wearing a plain white t-shirt that nearly swallowed me, going all the way down to my knees. I remember I was in wolf form before I passed out and wondered if this shirt was the one he had been wearing. Not that it really mattered. I looked around and spotted my bag laying near a door. As I picked it up and I opened the door quietly. I was kind of relieved to see a large bathroom on the other side of the door. It's been years since I've used an actual bathroom. Granted this bathroom was ten times bigger than any bathroom I've ever seen, and the huge tub looked tempting.  Even the stand-up shower looked inviting. I wasn't completely naive to the world's wonders, even if I grew up as a rogue. Looking at the double sink, I noticed a white towel and washcloth folded up neatly on the counter. A folded-up paper was folded on top with my name on it. Picking it up, I read the contents. "Kyra, I am hoping you decide to stay, even just for a little time to give me a chance to prove you can trust us. You may make yourself at home and I will have supper sent up to the room once you've awakened. Also, a fresh outfit will be brought up to you. I hope we can talk later once you've settled a bit. -Hunter." I haven't decided what I was going to do just yet, but the urge to flee no longer filled me. I suppose a couple of days wouldn't hurt. It at least gave me a bit of time to regroup and hopefully come up with a way to escape if needed. I wanted to no longer have to run, to have a place to call home. I could no longer just continue to run blindly. I needed to figure out a way to end it and start fighting back. I didn’t want to continue living in fear. I was always sneaking off to watch the city kids play, yet I was always hidden away in the darkness, always having to keep from being discovered. I had experienced very little in my life and while I knew that I had to run, I didn’t know why. All I knew was what my father told me. Maybe if I give it a couple of days here, I can figure out what to do. I knew how to protect myself. What would happen if I stopped running, who was even after me? Pulling the shirt off, before stepping into the shower, I quickly used the toilet to relieve myself. It felt as if I hadn't used the bathroom in days. Once done, I flushed the toilet and then went to check the shower. As soon as the water was warm, I stepped into the shower and a soft moan escaped me. The feel of the water massaging my flesh felt wonderful.  I was accustomed to bathing in lakes and streams. I had nearly forgotten what a warm shower felt like. I quickly washed my hair and body with the soap that was sitting on a shelf in the shower. Though I had no intentions of stepping out of the shower just yet. I was enjoying the way the water cascaded down my form and eased my aches and pains. I had never seen a shower this size. Even if I spread my arms out, I wouldn't be able to touch both sides at once. The shower doors were clear glass and were floor to ceiling. There was a second shower head on the other side of the shower. The tiles were a dark blue with marble-like patterns. Standing under the water, I kept my head under the stream with my eyes closed. I stayed under the water until the water started to turn cold. Then I stepped out and grabbed the towel. I dried my hair a bit until it was damp, then I dried the rest of my body and wrapped the oversized towel around me. Stepping out of the bathroom, with my bag in hand. I went back to stand next to the bed. I was just about to dig through my bag to get an old outfit out when I noticed a stack of folded-up clothes on the foot of the bed. Again, with a note on it. "These clothes are for you, I can get you some more clothes when you feel comfortable. -Hunter" I dressed in a pair of blue jeans, that were a little too loose but fit better than the clothes I had. Then I pulled on a shirt that was way too small and far too revealing.  I decided to take the shirt back off and went to the dresser and found a selection of men’s clothes, that probably belonged to Hunter. Not caring, I pulled out a large black t-shirt and pulled the overhang behind my back, and tied a knot. As soon as I was dressed, I heard a gentle knock on the door. I positioned myself in a defensive stance, ready to bolt if needed. The door opened and a girl walked in, carrying a tray of food. She couldn't be much older than twelve and had the biggest smile I'd ever seen. I relaxed a bit, I wasn't about to attack a child. "Hi! My name is Riley. I am so happy to finally meet you! Are you really a rogue? Is your wolf really white? Can I meet her? How old are you? Do you have a favorite color?" This girl was full of energy. The onslaught of questions had my head spinning. I didn't really feel comfortable answering her questions though. I remained silent and watched her as she set the tray of food on the table next to the oversized chair. The thought of food had my stomach growling. Which only had the girl giggling. She was cute, dark brown curly hair framed her oval freckled face. Deep blue eyes that reminded me of Hunter's, were wide with excitement as she laughed. "Eat up. I'll leave you alone to eat." She left the room and I made my way to the tray of food. It honestly looked good, smelt even better. It was a large plate filled with chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, and some sort of white sauce over the mashed potatoes. There was also a glass of dark liquid and a bottle of water. A small plate with a piece of apple pie on it was what had my attention first. I hadn't had apple pie since my father made it for me when we stayed in an apartment in the city, trying to blend in. Sitting down in the chair, I started in on the pie. The moment the sweet taste coated my tongue, I felt like I went to heaven. It wasn't like my father's apple pie, but it was absolutely delicious. I tried to savor the taste as long as I could, but I was beyond hungry. It took me no time at all to finish the pie and I took a drink of the dark liquid. I remembered the taste slightly, it was definitely a type of soda. I was never really a fan of sodas, so I opened the water bottle and took a long drink of that. I dug into the rest of the food and found the chicken was amazing dipped into the mashed potatoes and white creamy coating. It took me no time at all to devour everything on my plate. Everything had been so good.

Chapter 5 Chapter Four

Kyra- "Alexia?" I hadn't heard from my wolf since I woke up and it was a little weird. I could feel her presence, but she was unusually quiet. Deciding to go look around, I quietly opened the door to the room and peeked my head out. I didn't see anyone in the long hallway. I stepped out of the room and went towards the staircase and once again didn't see anyone. Trying to be as quiet as possible I slowly made my way down the stairs and came into a large open foyer. Looking around I saw a couple of old antique chairs sitting against the wall under the staircase. In between the chairs was an identical small side table with a notepad and pen sitting on it. There didn't seem to be any other furniture. There was just an open space covered in a light brown carpet. I could smell a hint of old blood on it, though it smelled as if they had used a lot of cleaners to get rid of the stain. The walls were just plain off-white and didn't feel homey at all, just bland. To the far left of the room just across from the staircase was a door. It looked to be possibly the front door. To the left of that was an open arch that leads into what seemed like a living room. On the opposite was another door, after peaking in, it was just a coat closet. Next to it was another hallway but this one was wider than the one upstairs. A couple of doors lined the wall. I went to go open the first door on the right and found myself in another closet, filled with cleaning supplies. The next-door leads into a large library and I decided to step in to browse around for a bit. I loved reading and it had been difficult to come across any books. The last book I had, I had to burn to use as a fire starter. It had been a difficult choice. It had been nearly a year. I trailed my hands over one of the shelves, my fingertips brushing gently over the leather bindings of some old books. I continued to look around the library and was amazed at how many books there were. Wall to wall, floor to ceiling bookshelves covered each wall and were filled. This was probably the only room that I've seen that felt welcoming and warm. A large table with two lamps sat in the middle of the room, books sitting in a neat stack on it. Eight chairs surrounded the table, with enough space between each chair to not seem crowded. All the furniture seemed to be identical. They all were cherry oak. They looked old but well taken care of. I decided to leave the room to check out the other rooms. Across the hall was another room, this one lead into a small-looking office. I felt like an intruder, so I quickly shut the door. I opened the last door at the end of the hall and froze. It was another office but this one much larger. It was absolutely beautiful. There were even a couple of portraits on the wall with some old-looking swords hanging on the walls. A couch was positioned in front of an old cherry oak desk, in the middle of the room, that was covered with intricate designs carved into the oak. It looked to be one that has been around at least a hundred years or more. The room was lovely, it was intimate and welcoming, yet not the reason I froze in place. No, it was the man that sat in the chair behind the desk. He leaned back in the chair the moment I entered. I was tempted to flee but decided to stand my ground. It was just a matter of time before I would have to face him. Better now than later. There was a slight urge to run away from this man, but oddly enough I was more curious than anything. He was devilishly handsome. His features were hard and strong, yet there was a gentleness to him as he looked at me. His jawline was slightly squared, and his face was similarly oval to the girl Riley I met earlier. It looked as if he hadn't shaved in a couple of days and he looked tired. Dark circles could be seen slightly under his deep blue eyes that remind me of the ocean darkened by the night sky with the moon and stars glistening over the waters. His complexion was slightly darker than my own, more of a bronze tan. He seemed to be looking me over as well and I watched as his gaze appeared to darken briefly as he caught sight of the shirt I wore. I still hadn't moved since opening the door and he didn't seem to be inclined to move either. Not sure if he was waiting for me to make the first move or not. I was just about to leave when he spoke. "Hello, Kyra." His voice sent a serenity over me and I seemed to relax slightly. My thoughts going back to when he claimed to be my mate. I still didn't feel the mate pull but something about him made me curious. "I... uhm... I..." Perfect, I was at a loss for words. What was I going to say? Hi sorry for snooping around your house. That just sounded lame. I mean he did tell me to make myself at home. "Would you like to come sit and talk?" I wasn't sure what it was about his voice, but it seemed to soothe me. It was deep and slightly raspy. I felt myself relax and walk into the room as if I were being pulled by an unknown influence. "Sure." I made my way towards the couch across from his desk and sat down. My hands fell into my lap and I inadvertently started to fidget with my thumbnails. I no longer felt afraid, but I was nervous. "Alexia?" I tried once more to communicate with my wolf, wondering why I still haven't heard from her. "I'm here Kyra." I felt relieved to hear her sweet voice in my head. "Where were you?""I've been talking with Hunter's wolf. I needed to make sure we were safe." The thought had never occurred to me that she could communicate with other wolves. I hadn't realized that was possible. Though now I vaguely remember her mentioning something like that the other day. "How can you connect with his wolf?" She didn't answer right away, and I was beginning to get worried. I didn't want to be alone when we confronted the Alpha. I wasn't even sure how much to tell him. "I don't know, I've never been able to before. I'm thinking we can trust them for now. At least until we know more. We've only ever been told we can't trust anyone." I thought the same thing, but I couldn't begin to comprehend. All I knew is if my wolf felt safe, I did too. I trusted her impeccably. Hunter- I studied her meticulously. I didn't want to frighten her and send her fleeing from my office. I have been going out of my mind trying to figure out how to persuade her to stay. My wolf had been trying to talk to her wolf all day. Hopefully, he managed to do so and sway them to hear us out at the very least. As fated mates, wolves had a link to each other to allow them to connect without their human counterparts. It was to keep the wolves’ content and have a continual connection. Their need for each other was just as strong as the human counterpart parts need to be connected. They could experience alone time and not feel jealous that their human counterpart was the only one being available to be around their mate. I watched as Kyra's gaze went hazy, undoubtingly collaborating with her wolf. She seemed to relax noticeably, and I knew immediately that Ace got through to her wolf. I waited until her emerald eyes returned to normal. She had the most distinctive eyes I've ever seen. Typically, a wolf and its human counterpart had different eyes when they shifted. Yet hers remained the same as her wolf's eyes. Both had emerald green eyes that glowed. I've observed the glowing wasn't as vivid when she was in human form. When Ace tried to take control of my human form, my eyes became black. His eyes were burnt orange and mine was a deep dark blue. My little mate was a conundrum. My main concern was her safety though. It was apparent that others saw her as a threat. Even I wondered how safe it really would be to have her in the pack. "Okay. Let's talk." Kyra spoke quietly. I could hear the slight strain as if she were still nervous. Yet she was talking so I was going to overlook it. "I am sorry that we hadn't met under different circumstances, though I hope you are feeling better.""I'm fine." She answered abruptly, apparently resigned to not give much away. "I am not sure what your past was like and I hope in time you'll trust me enough to tell me. So, for now, I only have a couple of questions. One being, why do you carry wolfsbane?" That was the one thing I was most concerned about. Did she use it to hurt others or did she hurt herself? My question seemed to get her attention though. She started biting on her bottom lip. Almost as if she were contemplating how much to divulge. "I have been taking it for the past couple of years to build a tolerance for it." I listened to her heart rate carefully to see if she was telling me the truth. She was. It actually stunned me. Not only did she speak the truth, but she admitted to ingesting wolfsbane. "Why do you need to build a tolerance?" I asked her, careful not to raise my voice. She seemed to mull over that briefly, "Because it has been used against me in my past and I never want to go through that kind of misery again." I didn't like it, but I did understand her need to protect herself. As a show of faith. I pulled it out of my pocket and placed it on the desk. She didn't immediately reach for it, but the look of disbelief was evident on her. With only a slight hesitancy, she reached over to seize it. "T-thank you..." she spoke softly. I simply nodded my head and decided to move onto my next question. Hoping that I didn't push too hard. "How long have you been on the run?""My entire life." This time she didn't seem to hesitate, but I could hear the pain in her voice. "My last question, for now, is, how long until you turn eighteen?" I asked her, trying not to seem too eager. "On the next full moon." She seemed confused by this question. "Thank you for answering my questions. All I ask of you now is to stay here until at least you turn eighteen. If by then you still wish to leave, I will permit it." I hoped she would agree to it. It would give me time to prove to her that once she turns eighteen, she will see that I am her fated mate. Her gaze became hazy again, probably to talk it over with her wolf. I waited patiently. With each passing moment, I felt nervous she would decline. I wouldn't keep her against her will but if she refuses, I was not going to let her leave by herself. After what seemed like ten long grueling minutes, her focus fell back onto me. "Am I a prisoner here?" She asked the question as if she was uninterested. "Of course not. You may come and go as you please. My only request is you stay within the borders and if you feel the need to cross the borders to go for a run, you at least take myself or my Beta with you." At my last statement, her eyes narrowed into slits nearly. "I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself." She spoke each word with venom. "I don't disbelieve that for a moment, I am only saying it as a suggestion for the safety of my pack." I tried to cover my ass. I fully meant it as a way to keep her safe but now I realize that was a mistake. It was as if I was walking on eggshells. "Fine." The one word sounded as if she wanted to gouge my eyes out, but to me, it was as if a weight was lifted off my chest. I didn't care about anything other than she was staying. She didn't bother to say anything more, just left the office and as soon as the door slammed shut, I let out a groan and ran my hands through my black short hair. Shaking my head, I tried to focus back on the paperwork in front of me. I was just about to mind link Caleb when he opted at that moment to poke his head in. "So, is she staying?" He asked enthusiastically. I nodded my head and a genuine smile spread across his lips. Without saying anything else, he shut the door. I tried to focus back on my work, but my thoughts kept drifting back to my gorgeous mate. Whose scent still lingered in my office.

Chapter 6 Chapter Five

Kyra- Why I needed to stay until my birthday was beyond me. Yet Alexia and I had both agreed. It would give us plenty of time to figure out what we would do next. I didn’t want to continue to fear who was after us. It was time to start coming up with a plan, instead of always running and having nowhere to go. After talking it over with Alexia, she also agreed it was high time we stood our ground. We needed to stop running in fear and figure out who was even after us. My father had not disclosed too much information, we seen no reason to ask questions. We knew that the alpha from the pack we ran from, considered me an abomination and that my mother stayed behind to give my father a chance to escape with me. He claims my mother is still alive, but it has been nearly eighteen years, and four years since my father died. There was a very unlikely chance she was still alive. We knew that the other packs we have had the misfortune of running into either wanted us for power or to kill us. Rogues became blind with rage when they come across us, we suspect the reason, though do not actually know. We knew that my father was adamant about us running and that someone was chasing us. Yet I was trained to fight, of course to protect myself, but he also taught me how to infiltrate enemy camps, how to disguise my scent to get inside pack territories undetected, and he taught me about pack life. He taught me the rules and what was expected of someone in a pack. He taught me about the things that were redundant if all I’m going to do is continue to run. He even explained mates and the fundamentals of how it all works. If all I was needed to do was run, why would he teach me all of that. He taught me more than just survival. He taught me how to live. I wanted to know what it was like to be accepted and whether I believed Hunter or not, I wanted to at least experience the life I have dreamed of. I wanted friends, family and I would even love to have kids. I still don’t believe I was meant to have a mate, but what if it was possible? If I stop running, I could potentially meet my end, but at this point even that was better than the constant running and living in fear. I will stay for now, then I will leave, and I will take the fight to the ones that seek to destroy me. In the meantime, I will make memories and I will experience a life I could never have before. If Hunter is so adamant about what he says, then what is the worse thing that could happen to see if what he says is true? I mean I could leave now, could he really stop me if I did? I guess it is a possibility. I did try to escape once before, but I am back here. By staying, I get a chance to figure out what I need to do, instead of just trying to survive. After leaving Hunter’s office, I made my way outside, I mean if I wasn't a prisoner, I wanted to be outside. I didn't like feeling like I was encroaching on someone else's home. If I was wanting to experience things and make memories and maybe even enjoy not running anymore, I needed to start trying. I wanted to explore and watch people interact with each other. Mostly, I didn’t trust Hunter, no matter how hard I tried. When I stepped out, I seen a group of kids playing with a ball. They seemed to not have a care in the world. I never really got to experience that. I was just about to turn to keep exploring when a little girl with blonde pigtails came running up to me. "Hi! Do you want to play with us?" She asked. I could see the look of hope shining brilliantly in her big round blue eyes that I just didn't have the heart to tell her no. "Sure, I'll play with you." I didn't even care they were just a group of young kids. I had only ever watched from a distance as kids had a chance to play and run. Plus I feel like I’ve been cooped up, so a chance to let off some energy thrilled me. The little girl pulled me towards her friends and for the first time in my entire life, I ran around laughing and playing. I was entirely out of my element and I appreciated every second of it. It was exceedingly bizarre to have another person, kid or not, want to be around me. I didn't even care that I felt as if I was being watched. I continued to play with the kids for a bit longer. When some of the kids took off running and chasing each other, I decided to hang back. I was starting to think that maybe it wouldn't be all bad staying around here. I found myself walking towards what appeared to be a school, a girl probably about my age sitting on the front steps. I was just about to turn around when the girl I met earlier came running up. "Kyra! I was hoping to run into you again." Riley said as soon stopped in front of me. "Hey." I didn't really want to seem rude, I just wasn't particularly good at talking to others. "You going to be sticking around?" Riley asked. I nodded my head and she let out a squeal of delight. It was going to take some getting use to her. "So, you're the girl everyone keeps buzzing about." The girl that had been sitting on the steps to the school said. I looked at her with curiosity. I hadn't even heard her approach. Well not that I probably could over Riley squealing. I felt Alexia become alert at the girls sudden appearance. She had a short black pixie haircut and chocolate brown eyes. I felt warmth radiating off her. She wore a light blue shirt that had the words 'eat me' in big pink letters over a picture of a piece of chocolate cake. She had a pair of dark blue jeans that had a couple tears in them. Though what really caught my attention was the pair of shoes that were probably originally white, painted to look like chocolate cake. "I guess." I said to her. "My name is Melanie, but everyone calls me Mel. It's nice to finally meet the girl everyone is buzzing about. You don't smell like a rogue or sound like one." Oddly I didn't feel annoyed by the statement, I figured I would, but I mean it is the truth. I was for all intent and purposes a rogue. "Her name is Kyra!" Riley yelled at Mel, seemingly upset. "Go away, I was here first!" Riley stomped her feet and crossed her arms. I have only seen a tantrum once before and that had been when we had been staying at the apartment when I was younger and seen a small child from the window of the room I was in, throw one because his mom told him he couldn’t have a sucker. I was just about to tell her that there was no reason I couldn't talk to them both when Riley's gaze became hazy. As soon as her vision cleared, she looked at me and hesitated, then quickly ran off. "Don't mind her, that's the Alpha's little sister. So how old are you?" Mel asked. "Seventeen." I didn't see any reason to say I was almost eighteen. It didn't really seem like a big deal. "Awesome, so you going to go to school here Monday?" She asked. My father taught me everything I needed to know, and I was never able to go to school. What more could going to school teach me? Granted I felt like going to school would be a mute point, but I was genuinely curious about it. I actually liked the idea of giving it a try. Perhaps I needed to ask the Hunter if that was even possible. Though the thought of talking to him again made me second guess myself. For some unknown reason I felt calm around him and that was something that both confused and frightened me. "I don't know." I said, deciding I would ask Hunter. "Great! Would you like me to show you around a bit?" I agreed to let her show me around and I learned a lot about her and the pack. I found out that every pack family all had their own house. There was an apartment building for unmated wolves and even an orphanage for children that lost their parents from rogue attacks and wars. I learned that Hunter had a reputation of being the cruelest Alpha in any of the packs. Evidently, he was harsh in his punishment of rogues and killed women and children. Mel claimed they were just speculations. I mean so far, he didn't seem terrible, but I decided I would make my own opinion about him. I still believed it was a trick. He claimed to be my mate and I genuinely believed that I would be mateless. Mel showed me there was a small clothing store, a couple restaurants, a coffee shop and even gift shop. She explained that if I couldn't find anything I was looking for, just ask the Alpha and he would order it. Not that it really mattered to me, I had no money. She told me all about herself being the youngest of three and she had just turned eighteen. She still lived with her parents, even though theoretically she should be able to move into the apartments now. Her oldest sister was going to be moving out soon, now that she has met her mate in another territory, and she was waiting for her mates transfer to come through. Her father was the pack doctor and as soon as Mel graduated college, she was to become the next pack doctor. We talked and walked for hours and I felt myself wishing that my life could be this simple. Mel had to go home to her family, and I started walking back on my own. I was walking by the line of stores when I suddenly stopped. I smelled something so familiar and delicious. I turned to look through one of the store windows and a seen it was a restraunt. When my stomach rumbled, I turned away and smacked into a hard chest. I felt a slight tingle dance across my skin and when I looked up, I found myself looking up into Hunter's deep blue eyes. His arms had wrapped around me to steady me when I ran into him. It was unnerving to have him so close. Yet for some reason, I couldn't pull away. Standing in his arms I felt as if a sense of warmth wash over me. Almost as if I could feel safe in them. I don't know how long we stayed like that, but I heard my stomach rumble again and it caused him to chuckle.  I stepped back and looked down, becoming nervous. "Come on, I'll get us something to eat." He spoke gently. I looked up at him, then at the restaurant again and I nodded my head in agreement. He led me inside and sat us at a table near the door. With him on one side and me on the other, my back closest to the entrance. I wasn't sure if he did that deliberately or not, but knowing I could escape, made me relax. When the waitress came with the menu's he shook his head and asked the lady to bring two big bowls of their home-style chicken noodles and mashed potatoes. I watched him curiously and wondered if he had been searching for me or just found me by chance. I decided not to ask. Instead, I asked him the one question that had been plaguing me. "Can I attend school?" I asked in a rush. Part of me hoping he would say no, but the other part hoping he would say yes. The question seemed to startle him, his eyebrows shot up and choked on the water the waitress had brought for us when she took our order. The corner of his lips turned upward as he nodded his head. "You can have anything you desire little one, I will get you set up in school on Monday." I didn't know how I felt about that statement, but I decided to let it go. When the food came, we ate in silence.  For the first half of the time, it was marginally uncomfortable, but it didn't take me long to just enjoy the company. After eating we walked back to the pack house in silence. I could tell he wanted to say something, but he kept to himself. After reaching the pack house he led me up to my room and wished me a good night. I had thought maybe the room had been his, but as I watched him walk back down the stairs, I wondered whose room I was staying in. Not that it really mattered. I closed the door, locked it, then climbed into bed after taking my jeans off. As I laid in bed, my thoughts drifted to my father. For some reason  I felt as if I needed to remember something.  There had been no reason to ever question him, so why did I feel uneasy about something? Just as I was about to slip into a deep sleep, I heard a whisper so gentle and warm, "You need to remember child." I knew I had heard the voice before,  but I didn't  know where. It was a womans voice and hearing it, I felt like I needed to listen to what she was saying. There was something about her voice that made me feel love. But what did she mean I needed to remember?  Is there something about my dad that I had forgotten? Why did I feel like I was connected to the voice and why was this uneasiness  feeling  filling me at the thought of my father? My conscience  was apparently  trying to tell me something,  but exhaustion  took over.