The Luna's Hidden Destiny

(Mila)

Two more days passed as I fluttered my eyes open, the morning light drifting in as I felt someone next to the bed. The scent of chai and vanilla swirled around me as I inhaled deeply.

‘Not our mate.’

Calypso said sadly, a low whimper leaving her. What did we do wrong? Why didn’t he come back yet? I sat here patiently the last two days, waiting for him, worried about him. He hadn’t returned and my heart sank. Maybe I wasn’t what he expected. Was I a disappointment? At least Blake and Tristan came and stayed with me for a few hours a day. I felt like I was getting to know them more than my own mate..how sad.

I looked next to the bed and saw a petite woman with black hair. Her eyes were a clear blue and her skin was a light tan. She had such a natural beauty to her that it was hard not to sit up and straighten my hair and gown.

“You are awake.” The stranger said sweetly, her eyes gleaming as she put the book she was reading down onto the table beside her.

“I didn’t want to wake you so I decided to read, I hope that was okay?” She asked me softly, she had such a gentle and nurturing presence to her. Then I studied her eyes closer, realizing now that this had to be Rowan’s mother. Their eyes were identical.

“That’s okay, next time you can just wake me.” I whispered clearing my throat. Suddenly she reached her hand out, gripping mine gently in a warming gesture.

“I couldn’t wait any longer, I had to meet you. I am Rowan’s mother, Laura.” Her bright smile made me feel at ease instantly.

“It’s nice to meet you.” I responded sweetly, trying to sit up in the bed a little more.

For some reason, I didn’t feel nervous, or intimidated like I thought I would be. She seemed familiar somehow, like I had known her, or met her before. I know that wasn’t possible but maybe because she was related to Rowan and Blake I felt a sense of ease.

“I asked Dr. Lewis if it would be okay for you to get some fresh air today, I’m sure you need it.” She squeezed my hand and excitement filled me.

I was grateful to be here and get the amazing care that I have but I missed going outside and feeling the wind in my hair.

“That would be amazing.” I tried not to act too excited, but I couldn’t hide it.

“Good, I thought you could shower first, the doctor gave you the go-ahead.” She added kindly and I nodded, wanting to change and shower so badly.

“Okay, I put some things in the bathroom, I can help you if you’d like or if you would rather have a nurse?” She was so considerate, Rowan was truly lucky to have a mom like this.

“I think if you could help me walk there, I could probably manage the rest.” She began moving the table aside.

“Okay let me get your iv situated first.” She muttered while walking briskly over to the iv pole that had wheels on the bottom, so it could slide across the floor easily.

She pulled it over to my side, and reached for my blankets, pulling them back for me.

“Let’s see if I can remember how to even walk.” I grumbled, my legs feeling stiff and weak already.

“Wait until you have children, that’s a whole new experience..” she laughed, smiling at me brightly.

“Sadly my sons never seemed to grow up, with how many tantrums they always seem to throw. Where did we go wrong…” she added a little louder as there was now a sound by the door.

“I heard that! And it wouldn’t be a tantrum if you just gave us what we wanted.” Blake quipped, entering the room carrying a small paper bag.

Laura tisked as she playfully hit her son on the arm.

“Such a spoiled brat.” She teased, causing Blake to frown.

“See the abuse we have to endure Mil? Are you ready to have a wicked mother-in-law?” Blake whispered with a sly look on his face and Laura gasped.

“You better go before I do something to make you cry.” She joked and he lifted his hands up in surrender, handing her the bag he was holding.

“I’m just the delivery boy.” He said winking at me.

Suddenly I noticed their eyes clouding over as if they were linking each other. I looked away, feeling like I was eavesdropping even though I couldn’t hear a thing they were saying.

“See you later Mil, don’t overdo it.” Blake winked before turning and walking out of the room.

I expected they were talking about Rowan, and why he wasn’t here. From the look on his mom’s face, it didn’t sound good. I tried to push those feelings down. I guess worst case I can try to find my way back to the cabin. Maybe I wasn’t what he was expecting. He probably wanted a more experienced mate so I could be a better Luna. Was I a disappointment to him? My stomach began to ache.

‘Stay positive darling, please…’

Calypso begged me, maybe her own thoughts were now darkening. The fact that he didn’t check on me once..it didn’t feel good.

“Ready?” She asked, hiding that concerned look she had on before.

I nodded my head, standing shakily as she took my arm and slowly started to guide the iv along with us. It felt good to stretch my legs, this had been the longest I had gone without training or doing some type of exercise so it felt good to finally get up and do something. By the time we reached the bathroom, I felt more confident to stand by myself. She handed me some shampoo, body wash, and a toothbrush, which I needed badly.

“Okay, I will be right out here. I just have to make a quick call. If you need anything just holler okay?” She asked me, eyeing my legs to make sure they stopped wobbling.

“Okay, thank you, Laura…I really appreciate it.” I meant it too, everyone has been nothing but kind to me here. Even the staff was amazing, I had gotten to know a few of the nurses and they spoke only great things about Black Stone and their Alpha.

After she closed the door, I walked to the shower, stripping off my gown and making sure not to snag my iv. I stepped under the hot steaming water and a gasp left me. This felt amazing…I really needed this. I took my time washing my hair and body. Whatever grime and dirt from the past week slipped off of me and spiraled down the drain, leaving me feeling fresh and new. I had just been given sponge baths before this so it was much needed. After I was done, I turned off the water and wrapped a towel around my body. I quickly brushed my teeth..twice. They didn’t feel clean enough the first time and then popped my head out of the bathroom.

“I’m all done, would it be okay if you ask the nurse for a fresh gown?” I asked, not wanting to put that other one back on.

“Oh no dear, I brought you some new clothes. I wasn’t exactly sure about the sizes but I think I got it close.” She said, motioning to the bed.

There lay a beautiful light blue knit sweater and a light washed pair of jeans. Next to them were some light blue shoes and some panties with a matching bra. I hadn’t seen clothes like this ever..maybe in movies but not in real life. I walked over, my eyes growing wide as I looked at the gorgeous clothes before me.

“Thank you..these are beautiful.” I said breathlessly, I couldn’t help myself, I walked up and enveloped Laura into a warm embrace.

My emotions took over as I began to cry, everything finally catching up to me. The trauma I had gone through, leaving the cabin for the first time in my life, missing my dad, the only family I had. Rowan not coming back, it all just flooded out, leaving me a sobbing mess as she comforted me.

“It’s okay, you are here now, it will all be okay.” She said soothingly and I nodded my head.

“I’m sorry, I just never..this has just been a lot.” I managed to choke out.

She nodded encouragingly as she reached up, brushing a lock of damp hair behind my ear.

“You are such a strong, brave girl.” She whispered.

Her words causing Calypso to wag her tail in approval.

‘She is right, we are strong, we are brave.’

She said more fiercely, finding her own confidence again.

“Here, let me help you get dressed. Then I can do your hair.” She said with a smile and I nodded my head, pulling back as we walked to the bed.

After disconnecting part of the iv for a moment, I slipped on the bra and panties. Then the jeans and the sweater. Laura turned around, a quiet gasp leaving her as she looked at me.

“Oh sweetheart, those fit you perfectly. You are absolutely stunning.” She gushed with her hand covering her mouth. Her eyes sparkled as she stepped forward, helping me put my new shoes and socks on.

“This sweater is so soft, it’s like I’m wearing a blanket.” I said, causing her to chuckle.

“I have one in pink, it is one of my favorites.” She smiled, guiding me over to a chair by a small desk.

“I linked the nurse and she said she will be in to take your iv out in a little. Then you might get discharged tonight.” I looked at her in the mirror as she spoke. This made me both excited and nervous. Right now everything felt up in the air, I had no idea what Rowan was thinking. Did he even want me to stay here? She must have seen my hesitation.

“He just needs some time to think dear, this has been a lot for him. A lot of emotions he has never felt before.” She started to brush my long hair gently.

I looked down at my hands, feeling vulnerable.

“If I’m not what he expected..I understand.” I wanted to let them know, they didn’t need to force this.

If he was changing his mind he had a right to, no matter how bad it hurt. My heart began to ache as I tried to push that pain away. Hearing Calypso whimper in my mind. The thought of our mate not wanting us..that pain was something I didn’t know if I could bare. Maybe that was what was meant to happen all along.

Suddenly Laura turned me around, her hands cupping my face as she spoke.

“Mila, the moon goddess does not make mistakes. Don’t you feel it, in the air and through the people you have met? Don’t you feel that this is where you belong? Do not doubt that my child..please. You will be a wonderful Luna, I can see it in your kindness, in your heart. You were born for this, now we will get you there together.” She suddenly pulled me into her chest. Her own tears forming as she held me tightly.

“I feel as if I have known you, like I know your sweet soul. You feel so familiar to me.” She whispered, her words surprising me as I nodded my head.

“So don’t think you are going to do this alone okay? And Rowan, he is already going crazy without you. I have a feeling he won’t be able to stay away much longer. So let’s get you looking radiant.” She smiled brightly, looking down at me as I felt so grateful for this woman.

This is what it must be like to have a mother. To have someone who cares for you and dotes on you. But I felt pretty lucky to have Dad, at least one parent who loved and cherished me and I missed him so much.

After Laura finished my hair, the nurse came in and took out my iv. Laura held my hand while I looked away, it didn’t hurt too bad but it was a huge relief to have that thing out of me.

“Okay let’s get going!” She said while rushing me out of the door. She said something to the nurse quickly and then came back to me.

“The garden is just out this way.” She informed me while looping her arm through mine.

I examined the way she walked and carried herself. She was so regal and refined, her dress was a creme-colored sweater that went down to her knees. She wore black leggings and calf-high boots. She had a black belt around her waist and wore beautiful gold jewelry to accent it all.

The nurses and staff all greeted us cheerfully, I knew most of their names and remembered a few things they had shared with me. Laura seemed impressed by how many people knew me already. I realized they all addressed her as Luna and I wondered if I should be doing that too. She hadn’t said anything about it so maybe she didn’t mind.

As soon as we walked towards a pair of double doors that led outside I could smell the fresh air and excitement filled me. I quickened my pace and Laura laughed. As the doors opened a cool gust of wind hit me. I inhaled deeply, the smell of pine and earth filling my senses. The smell reminded me of my father, causing my heart to ache. I missed my woods, my bed, and my things. I guess if Rowan decided to reject me I would have that to look forward to. But if not, I knew I would grow to love this place, but the cabin would always hold a special spot in my heart.

“In the springtime, we will have to come back here, this walk is much more colorful, all of these plants bloom with beautiful flowers.” She informed me while glancing around the pathway.

“I can’t wait to see it.” I said, smiling at her. This made her beam, hearing me confirm I would be here for spring.

“So, is it okay..if I ask about your mother? You haven’t really mentioned her.” She asked calmly. I could tell she was trying not to be too intrusive.

“I never had the chance to meet her, she died when I was an infant.” I don’t know why, but I was nervous to tell her the story. The man who killed my mother, who my father ran away from. I had no idea who he could be. Was he still an Alpha?

“Oh dear, I am so sorry.” She said stopping and clutching my hands.

“Do you mind if I ask how?” She asked while I shifted on my feet, looking around nervously.

“Well..my father..he said that there was a man, who wanted to take my mother as his mate, and she refused…then the man, well he ended up taking her life.” I told her, not being sure what to say exactly. Should I say he was an Alpha? What if they knew him. I doubt my father would have kept us in the same area as him.

She gasped, her eyes widening as I continued.

“He said the man wanted to hurt me and my father, so he took me and ran away with me. Then he found the cabin and that was where we lived since. My dad told me that the man wanted my mother to be his mate, so when he found out she was with my father he killed her.” I bit my l*p, I didn’t want to seem like a victim. The actual events didn’t affect me too badly, considering I had no recollection of what occurred since I was so young. Just the premise though was the hard part.

“You poor thing, that is horrible, absolutely horrible.” She wrapped me in a warm comforting hug.Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

“I was so young so I don’t remember anything really, I knew I was missing something but I mostly feel bad for my dad, having lost his mate.” I explained, not wanting her to feel bad for me.

“Of course, and in such a tragic way, I couldn’t even imagine.” She put her hand over her heart as if what I had told her made it ache.

“It had always been just me and my dad in our cabin. So I feel like there are so many things I don’t even know about. Like cellphones, and cartoons..” I added with a chuckle, making a smile pull at her lips. She linked her arm with mine once more as we began walking again. Laura had to be 5’7, so she was tall for my standards and one of her steps felt like two of mine.

“So you just had a birthday then?” She questioned curiously, looking down at me.

“Actually, my birthday was on the 11th, for some reason my wolf appeared earlier.” I said looking down at the dead foliage beneath our feet.

“The eleventh?! That’s today!” She explained excitedly.

“Oh, I didn’t even realize.” I chuckled. I honestly have no grasp on time right now. I didn’t even know what day of the week it was.

“We have to celebrate. Tonight when you come home, we can do cake and have a little get-together.” Her eyes lit up as she spoke, excitement filling them.

“Oh, I don’t want anyone to go out of their way, it’s so last minute..” I tried to say before she cut me off.

“Nonsense, you are family now, no matter what.” Her words made my stomach flip, the way she said I was family now..after meeting her for such a short time.

Could it really be true? Or would I have to leave if Rowan decided not to accept our bond. I smiled at her, even though a part of my heart was hurting, I hoped what she said was true. I was already getting attached to these people..maybe because I had been so isolated my whole life I was craving something, anything more.

“Oh goddess, here she comes. Just smile and don’t pay any attention to what she says okay?” Laura whispered hastily as she gripped my arm tighter.

Looking straight ahead, a beautiful redheaded woman bounded towards us. It looked like she was on a run, she only wore a sports bra and tight pants that showed all of her curves. She was absolutely gorgeous. Her eyes were a soft blue and freckles covered her cheeks. Her skin was tan and her legs were long. I was surprised she wasn’t freezing wearing practically nothing. But then again, werewolves did run hotter.

She suddenly saw us, a smirk forming on her face as she came to a stop, her ponytail bobbing from side to side.

“Luna, good morning. You are looking lovely as usual.” Her voice was overly sweet, but her eyes seemed to be saying something completely different.

“Chloe, I see you are starting early this morning.” Laura said cheerfully, her tone not overly friendly.

Chloe..this was the woman Blake told me about, the one that Rowan was sleeping with..