Chapter 3

After dinner, I sat in my room and cried for what felt like forever. When I look back on that day, I can’t help but laugh. I should have relaxed and trusted the boys more.

All three of them got into Moonlight just like we knew they would, but it’s OK. I’ve had several talks with them throughout the summer, and they agreed to give me my space. 

I guess they are growing up, they agreed not to rat me out to mom and dad for everything I do. They even agreed not to interfere with my dating. As long as I give them enough information to report back to dad. We need to make them think the boys are doing their job.  

Ryker is a good brother. It’s just hard to admit that my little brother is constantly watching over me. I should be taking care of him, not the other way around.

I spent a lot of time with my family this summer, and my parents drilled safety precautions into my head. I don’t know why they are so worried. I get it. I won’t use my powers or tell anyone what I can do. I have the scent of a normal wolf. All I need to do is keep my powers hidden and I’ll remain safe. 

Aunt Violet is a witch and said that you can get a faint magic scent from me, but only if you know what you’re looking for. Most people say I have a flowery wolf scent.

None of it matters now, the summer flew by, and I’m finally on my way to moonlight. Halfway there to be exact, and the boys were true to their word. I insisted on driving myself, and the boys all took Drake’s car. As soon as we were off of our pack territory, they separated from me to give me the space I needed.

I have an agreement with them. They will leave me alone unless I need them. If they don’t rat me out, I won’t rat them out for whatever trouble they get into. Who knows, going off to college together might bring us closer.

I’ve been on the road all day. I’ve got to find a place to eat and to stay for the night. I’ll admit driving across the country by myself is a lot harder than I thought, but I’m not sorry. It’s an experience and I can make my own decisions without anyone telling me what they think I should do.

Like right now, this cute little diner is perfect for dinner. See, I can do this without any trouble. I smiled as I put the car in park. It’s a small white building with a neon sign above the door. Jenna’s place, hmm let’s see what you got Jenna, I’m starving.

As I walked inside, I noticed that they were busier than it looked from the parking lot. All the tables were full, except for one booth near the back. It was nice. It’s a quiet spot and I have a good view of the parking lot and the one store that’s next door. 

“How are you doing today,” the waitress smiled at me as she handed me a menu.

“I’m good,” I smiled back at her. 

“I haven’t seen you here before. Are you new in town?”

“I’m just passing through,” I gave her another smile. I thought her question was a little odd at first, but then I noticed that she’s a wolf. I must be in or close to another pack’s territory.

She nodded but gave me a curious look. “Can I get you anything to drink?”

“Yes, I’ll have some coffee please. I’ve been driving all day, and I need a place to stay tonight before I head back out tomorrow morning. Are there any hotels close by?” I gave her a smirk, so she would understand. If I’m in another packs territory I need to make sure they know how long I’ll be here, and that I’m not a threat.

She nodded her approval, “You came to the right place, let’s get you fed, and I’ll see if we can find you a room.” She smiled at me again before heading back to the kitchen. 

This menu looks incredible. I’m so hungry. I’m pretty sure I could eat a little bit of everything. I decided on a deluxe cheeseburger with fries. I gave the waitress my order when she brought me my coffee. 

I took a minute to text Ryker to check in and let him know I was fine. It’s annoying, but a small price to pay considering they are leaving me alone and giving me space. As I sipped my coffee, I noticed business was picking up. 

I felt weird sitting at a restaurant by myself. I’m so used to eating with my family or other pack members. I just stared out the window and took in my surroundings. A truck door opening caught my attention. Oh, my goddess, I’m pretty sure my jaw just hit the floor.  It’s a Greek god. It should be illegal to look that good. 

He’s huge, definitely a shifter. I could rip that tight white muscle shirt off him in about two seconds, maybe faster. The faster I get it off him, the faster I can use my tongue to trace the lines of every tattoo that’s covering his sun-kissed skin. His short dark hair looks like it craves my fingers. I need to feel it. 

“Oh crap, I’m sorry,” I started grabbing napkins. I spilled my coffee everywhere as the waitress tapped my shoulder.

“Are you OK miss? You look a little flushed,” she said with a smirk.

I nodded, “I must have been daydreaming. I didn’t even notice when you brought my food. I’m so sorry.” I smirked and tried to hide my embarrassment. Who am I trying to kid? She’s a shifter. She can smell my arousal. I’m so embarrassed, but this food looks too good to leave.

 

I tried to shake it off and keep my eyes to myself. I refuse to look back out that window as I enjoy my food. My wolf is even stirring, she’s probably embarrassed too. If I could just get my mouth to stop watering. Get a hold of yourself, I tried telling myself. I’ve seen plenty of hot men before, just not that hot.

The door to the dinner swung open, and my wolf started going crazy. I darted my eyes to the door, MATE! MATE!

The Greek god’s piercing green eyes met mine, and I froze. Not now, I just got my freedom. This has got to be a cruel joke.

I tried to calm my racing heart as I watched him lick his lower lip. Oh crap, he’s coming over here. I don’t know how to do this. What do I even say?

He never took his eyes off of me as he stalked closer. 

“Hi beautiful, my name is Creed,” He smiled and put his hand out for me to shake. 

“Bella,” I said as I smiled. OMG I’m such an idiot. I can’t think straight, and why can’t I use my words?

“Do you mind if I sit with you, Bella?”  He continued, smiling at me.

I shook my head no, “It’s fine, I’m actually almost done.”

Creed nodded, “If you don’t mind me asking where are you headed to once you’re done?”

“I’m on my way to Vermont,” OMG why did I just spit that out? I don’t know anything about him.

“Really,” He gave me a curious look.

“Um yah, I just stopped here for dinner.”

He smiled again, and I'm pretty sure I’ve never seen teeth that white.

“Well, Bella, it looks like we have one thing in common already. I’m on my way to Moonlight Academy in Vermont.”

I smiled, “me to.”

Something outside caught Creed’s attention, and he stared out the window like he was assessing something.

He slowly stood up, and I tried to figure out what he was looking at. Then I noticed a few guys standing close to his truck.

I looked back up at him, waiting to see if he was going to tell me who they were.

He looks calm and relaxed, but something is telling me this situation is not a good one.

Creed put his hand back out for me to shake. “It was nice to finally meet you, my mate.” He winked at me, and I blushed so badly I’m sure my face is as red as a tomato.

“I’ve got to get out of here, but I can’t wait to catch up with you at Moonlight.” He was talking to me, but he never took his eyes off the parking lot. 

Something is wrong. I have a feeling that none of those guys are his friends.