A flash from the past

Zara slowly blinked her eyes open, feeling the warmth of sunlight streaming through the curtains. As her vision cleared, she found herself in her childhood bedroom at her father's ranch. The room was a comforting sanctuary, filled with memories and familiar belongings.

The walls were painted a soothing pale blue, adorned with framed photographs capturing moments from Zara's past but there was no photograph of her mother or brother. Patrick her father had disposed of all the pictures of her mom and brother. He said it was too hard for him to look at them. Zara didn't know how mother looked like. Anytime she tried to remember, she would experience this head splitting headache. Her shelves displayed a collection of books that had accompanied her throughout the years, ranging from fantasy novels to scientific journals. A desk sat against one wall, scattered with papers, pens, and a laptop, reflecting Zara's studious nature.

Her bed, positioned in the center of the room, was a cozy haven. The soft sheets were a deep shade of burgundy, contrasting with the light-colored walls. A plush quilt with intricate patterns lay neatly folded at the foot of the bed, ready to be used on chilly nights.

As Zara's gaze focused, she saw Vincent, her loyal hewolf, and her father standing by her bedside. Vincent's strong features softened with relief as he locked eyes with her, his warm brown eyes reflecting his genuine care and concern. Next to him, her father, a rugged and kind-hearted man, wore a mixture of relief and worry on his face.

"Zara, you're awake," Vincent said, his voice laced with a mix of relief and affection. "How are you feeling?"

Zara managed a small smile, her voice still slightly raspy. "I'm a little groggy, but I'll be fine. Thank you for being here, Vincent."

Vincent nodded, his hand gently resting on hers. "Of course, Zara. I promised to protect you, and I intend to keep that promise."

Her father, standing by Vincent's side, leaned forward, concern etched on his weathered face. "It's good to see you awake, sweetheart. You had us worried there."

Patrick loved his daughter with all of his being, it was just the two of them. Patrick didn't have a social life and it was intentional, he didn't want anyone uncovering the family secret.

Zara's heart swelled with love and gratitude as she looked at her father. "I'm sorry for causing you worry, Dad. But I'm getting stronger, I promise."

Her father's worry softened into a gentle smile. "I know you are, Zara. You've always been resilient. Just remember, your family and friends are here to support you."

Zara's eyes filled with tears as she reached out to hold her father's hand. "Thank you, Dad. I'm grateful for everything you and Vincent have done for me."

Vincent and her father exchanged a knowing glance, both silently acknowledging the bond they shared in protecting and supporting Zara. Their presence gave her a sense of security and comfort, reminding her that she was never alone in this journey.

As Zara settled back into her bed, surrounded by the familiar and cherished elements of her childhood bedroom, she knew she was in the right place—surrounded by love, strength, and a deep connection with those who cared for her most.

Zara took a deep breath, her gaze shifting between her father and Vincent, her mind still reeling from the vision she had experienced. The image of the woman, her voice echoing in Zara's mind, had left her feeling unsettled yet curious.

"Dad, Vincent," Zara began, her voice filled with a mix of apprehension and determination, "I... I had a vision. It was vivid, almost like a dream, but it felt so real."

Her father's brow furrowed with concern, and Vincent's eyes bore into her, attentive and alert. "What did you see, Zara?" her father asked, his voice steady but tinged with worry.

Zara closed her eyes for a moment, trying to gather her thoughts and summon the details of the vision. "I saw a woman," she continued, her voice trembling slightly. "She had long blonde hair, and her eyes were filled with both sadness and urgency."

Vincent's features tightened, a flicker of recognition crossing his face, but he remained silent, allowing Zara to continue.

"She spoke to me, telling me to stay in the car with my brother," Zara explained, her words coming out in a rush. "But I couldn't see who my brother was, and the vision started to fade away. It's all a bit fuzzy now, but it gave me this intense feeling that something was about to happen."

Her father's gaze softened, his concern mingled with understanding.

"Zara dear, please try and rest. We can talk more when you're stronger", Patrick said.

Zara felt a mix of relief and trepidation hearing those supportive words from her father. She knew she could trust her father and Vincent, and their shared understanding gave her strength.

As Zara closed her eyes, her father and Vincent exchanged knowing glances, their shared concern and determination visible. They understood the significance of Zara's vision and were prepared to do whatever it took to protect her and delay her from uncovering the truth behind the death of her mother.

"Her memories are coming back, she will soon remember everything ", Vincent muttered.

"It's important you know, he spoke to her at the campus today. He doesn't know who he really is. Her memories are clearing up. You and my family have to figure out the next step and fast", Vincent added.

"Dad", Zara called out, shocking Vincent and her father. " Is there something you both are keeping from me?".