Chapter 24
When I open my eyes again, the first rays of the sun edge over the horizon, and the sight is stunning. I’ve never watched the sun rise above such a flat stretch of land, under an unobstructed sky.
At first, the sun is a deep red, gradually shifting to orange, then yellow. Soon, the sunlight becomes too intense to look at, and I have to blink a few times to clear the lingering brightness from my eyes.
A few minutes later, we pull into a gas station to take a break, pick up snacks, and switch drivers. I start to climb into the backseat with Elijah, but Emma insists that I keep my spot in the front. Before long, we’re driving again. After a short while, I glance over my shoulder at Elijah.
“He’s asleep,” Emma tells me. “He must have really needed the rest.”
“I doubt he’s been getting much rest lately,” I commented. I’m aware that he’s been getting up early with me for my job, and I don’t think he ever goes back to bed afterward. With his responsibilities as an alpha, he must constantly be occupied.
“He really cares about you,” Emma remarked. “Please don’t hurt him.”
My lips pressed together, and my chest twisted with emotion. “Hurting him is the last thing I want.”
“That’s good,” Lucas chimed in. “We want nothing but the best for Alpha. We want good things for you,
too.”
I gave a stiff nod, feeling uneasy. I appreciated Elijah’s pack supporting him so much, but I couldn’t shake the sense that if anything went wrong, the blame would fall on me instantly.
I understood why; that’s just the way packs are. To them, I’m the outsider who could bring harm to their alpha. I have no one standing with me. I shrank into my seat, doubts beginning to swirl in my mind.
Elijah is back behind the wheel now, and I feel relieved that our journey is almost finished. As we get closer to the city where the meeting is being held, familiar sights start to appear, making me tense.
This place is close to where I grew up. I used to come into the city with friends, spending the day enjoying things that weren’t available in our small town.
“I know this city,” I say under my breath, suddenly feeling on edge.
“Have you visited before?” Elijah asks.
“It’s right by my hometown.” My chest tightens as I consider the possibility of running into my family. Even though it’s a large city and the odds are low, I haven’t been near my old home since I was forced out. If my family’s warning was serious, it isn’t worth risking a chance encounter.
Sensing my anxiety, Elijah places his hand gently on my thigh. “I’ll stick with you while we’re here.”
“How long has it been since you last came?” Emma asks.
“Nearly four years,” I reply, trying to tell myself I’ll be alright. The likelihood of seeing them now is so
slim.
“Was coming back ever in your plans?” Emma wonders. Since I haven’t shared my past with anyone
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else, I can’t fault her for being curious.
“Never,” I answer. “My family and I don’t have a relationship anymore.”
“I’m sorry to hear that.” Emma falls silent, and I’m used to that response. Most people aren’t sure what to say when they learn about my family issues.
We take several turns down side streets until we enter an old neighborhood. Every building is made of red brick and appears to have stood for at least a century. Despite their age, they’re well cared for, and the yards are lush with plants. The whole area looks beautiful, holding onto its own unique history.
After several more minutes, we arrive at a house that could easily pass for a museum.
Despite its impressive size, it gives off a charming, cozy vibe.
Climbing plants have made their way up the multi-story facade.
A broad wooden door serves as the entrance, as if guarding a secret only a chosen few can discover.
The place buzzes with life, and I spot children darting about, radiating happiness.
If this is where Elijah spent his childhood, it must have been a joyful environment.
That thought makes it harder to picture what later occurred here.
I glance at Elijah, noticing that both his hands are clenched tightly around the steering wheel.
“There’s still time to turn around,” I say.
Elijah shakes his head and releases his grip on the wheel. “We’ve come this far. Turning back isn’t an option anymore.”
“We’re right here with you, Elijah,” Emma reassures him.
“Your loyal sidekicks are ready for action!” Lucas chimes in.
Elijah grins at that. “I don’t intend to get into any trouble. We’d be outnumbered anyway. Still, it means a lot to have you all with me if anything happens.” He looks at me. “Are you prepared?”
