Going Back
I know that avoiding Primo forever is impossible, since I work inside his mansion. Our paths will cross again, but I didn't anticipate it happening so soon. It's strange that Primo is requesting for my presence.
What could he possibly want from me?
Theo led me to the art room and just like the before, Primo isn't here yet. The painting from our last encounter is now hanging on the wall. Only now did I notice that it was the largest painting here.
I wonder what Primo's mother looked like. I bet she must have been beautiful.
I got pulled back to reality when I heard the creak from the door. My heart wouldn't get used to Alpha Primo's presence.
"Glad you're here. Please... sit. " He gestured to the couch near the window.
I gulped as I sit across from him.
"Uh, is there anything I can help you with?" I asked cautiously, relieved that I didn't stumble over my words.
"Yes, I have a important favor to ask. " He replied while crossing his arms. "But first, why have you been avoiding me?" His stern gaze caught me off guard. I felt like a thief caught in the act. How did he even know I was avoiding him?
Maybe, he's been keeping an eye on you? I scoffed inwardly. Don't be so full of yourself, Sianna. Primo wouldn't waste his time on you. My inner voice retorted.
"I didn't..." I stammered, but my nerves are betraying me. "I've been busy with chores and other tasks since Aunt Lily fell ill, so I've been doing her works."
I saw him arched his eyebrows, clearly unconvinced. I clutched the hem of my dress. I can feel my palms sweating.
It's true though. Aunt Lily got sick that's why I'm doing some of her chores.
His intense stares are making me uncomfortable. But then, a slow grin spread across his lips. He licked his upper lip and bit it, as if suppressing a smile.
"If you say so..." he nodded.
I could see the thrill in his eyes. Frustrated, I pouted and looked away. This conversation is going nowhere. When I glanced back at Alpha Primk, his gaze nearly stole my breath. His intense stare melted me, sending shivers down my spine. It's as if he could draw me into nothingness with just his eyes.
I mentally shake my head and cleared my throat. "Uh, pardon me, Alpha Primo, but what favor are you referring to?" His face became serious, gone the playful aura he have earlier.
"I want you to come with us to Wyverlight. I know your memories of the place aren't pleasant, but I need you to guide us to the Mystical Lake. " he pleaded.
His request caught me off guard. Returning to Wyverlight is the last thing I wanted. The mere thought of it stirred pain in my chest.
Yet, how could I resist Primo's pleading eyes? Despite having second thoughts, I said yes.
°°°°°°
I remained silent throughout the entire ride. The triplets accompanied us. Braden is the one who's driving the carriage, while Jayden and Hayden are with us inside the carriage.
As we reached Wyverlight, my eyes well up unexpectedly. I tried to hold back the tears, but the pain is too overwhelming. The once vibrant and lively town had vanished.
Wyverlight is a beautiful town to live in before the attack happened. It's a peaceful place filled with laughter, warmth, and genuine care among its people. Now, not a single soul remained. All that remained were pillars entwined with vines.
I felt Alpha Primo presence beside me, concern is evident in his eyes. I give him a reassuring smile; we weren't here to grieve for Wyverlight. What was done couldn't be undone, but I hoped those who suffered at the hands of the rogues had found peace.
"Are you ready?" He asked gently.
"Yes, I apologize if I took up your time. " I replied shyly.
"I couldn't help feeling emotional." He gave me small smile. "I don't mind. " he said, brushing his fingers against my hair. I averted my gaze when my face started blushing.
I heard his soft chuckle.
"Uh, Alpha Primo? We're ready for your command
" Jayden said.
I almost forgot the triplets were here. When our eyes met, Jayden quickly turned away, and Braden and Hayden pretended to be engrossed elsewhere.
"Ah, yes, let's head into the forest. " I stammered, feeling even more flushed. Braden and Hayden led the way, while Alpha Primo and I followed with Jayden.
I was lost in thought that I didn't notice a low-hanging branch causing for me to stumble. Before I hit the ground, Alpha Primo held me by the waist and I felt my back pressed against him.
"Belle, are you okay?" Jayden asked.
Alpha Primo's grip remained firm, preventing me from answering. It's like there's a lump in my throat.
I gave Jayden a small smile, assuring him that I'm fine.
My emotions were in turmoil. Earlier, he held me by the waist; now, he's embracing me tightly.
Jayden cleared his throat and looked away.
"Are you okay? Do you want me to carry you?" The way Primo asked me sounded so gentle. I almost closed my eyes.
"I-I-I'm f-fine, Alpha Primo... no n-need. " I stammered. I'm supposed to continue walking when his hold tightened. I feel small and vulnerable in his arms.
When I glanced at Lorkan, he's gaping. He quickly moved away from us, nearly tripping over the branches. I heard him mutter curses under his breath.
"Kianna Calliope Larsen..." His warm breath on my neck made me startle. He is so close and the way he said my full name feels like his worshipping. "You won't avoid me after this, will you?"
His voice is deep, raspy, and I sensed the heat radiating from his body. I felt weak. If he hadn't held me, I'd have collapsed.
"N-No... I won't, I p-promise," I stuttered.
"Good girl..." a smirk appeared in his lips. "Because if you avoid me again, I'll chase you." His words sounded like a warning.
I felt defeated. No matter how hard I resisted, my feelings cannot be eradicated. I lose.
He lifted me like a baby, noticing my shaky legs.
"Now... which way?" His voice held a tone of victory.
I pointed out which way to go. I want to encircle my arms around his neck but I don't have the courage to do it. So, I just settled my hands on my chest while shutting my eyes.
°°°°°°°
We reached the edge of the lake, and Primo gently set me down. Hayden and Braden approached me, concern etching their faces
"Guapa, are you okay?" Hayden asked with a hint of worry in his voice.
"What happened, Diosa? Are you hurt?" Braden inquired.
I feel guilty even though I hadn't done anything. When I glanced at Jayden, he is grinning ear to ear. I bit my lower lip and looked away.
You're too obvious, Anna. It's so embarrassing!
"I'm fine, just a bit dizzy." Liar! "But don't worry, I can manage."
"Are you sure, Diosa?" Hayden asked, still concerned with my condition.
"Are you fit for diving?" Braden added.
I nod and give them a reassuring smile. I need to regain my focus. I know how to swim but I had to concentrate. They needed me to retrieve something from the lake—the Galliana.
The Galloan is like a pearl—round, glossy, and found only in Mystical Lakes. It could transport you to any place or realm. Just step on the Galliana and think of your destination.
But there was more to it. The process have to occur within a Mystical Meyer—a portal to other realms. Each land in Theavia have its own Meyer, but not all have a Mystical Lake. Artea is fortunate to have both.
Traveling to another realm required strength. Unnatural beings had no trouble due to their power, but for regular folks like me, it's risky. We could travel, but with limitations.
The water from the Mystical Lake can also healed wounds, but it is perilous for werewolves, hybrids, vampires, and other unnatural creatures. The lake is surrounded by elements that weakened them, like wolfsbane. Only humans could approach it. That's why they needed me to retrieve the Galliana.
Primo and the triplets stood on the far side of the lake. Like pearls, the Galliana can be seen inside large shells.
However, these Galliana containing shells are rare, making my search challenging. I needed to dive deeper. I'd already opened three shells, returning to the surface to replenish my lungs with air. Luckily, on my fourth attempt, I found what I'm seeking.
Emerging from the water, I hugged myself against the cold. Shivering slightly, I hurried over to Alpha Primo and the triplets.
Alpha Primo wrap a towel around me as soon as I approach. I didn't even notice we have one. "You did great, Anna. " He said, giving me a soft smile while gently stroking my head. I nodded and handed him the Galliana.
"Thank you, Belle. " Jayden said as his eyes gleam.
"Yes, thank you, Diosa. We owe you this one."
"I'll cook for you when we get back, Guapa."
I simply smiled at them. "I want cookies, Braden. " I jokingly said. "Of course, whatever you want, Guapa!" Braden responded with delight.
"Let's return to the carriage before you catch a cold. I have clothes for prepared you." Alpha Primo said and place his hand on my back.
"Alpha Primo is right, Belle. You need to change. " Jayden added, nodding in agreement.
The triplets walk ahead of us, while Alpha Primo is still holding my waist as wehead back to the carriage.
"Are you warm enough? " he ask.
"Yeah, I'm good. " I said as I clutch the towel.
We're on our way back to the pack house after I've changed my clothes. Hayden is driving the carriage while Jayden and Braden shift into werewolves and took a run.
Leaving just Alpha Primo and me inside the carriage. It felt awkward, but I am starting to get used to his presence. Is it because I'd fully accepted my feelings? Had my resistance finally crumbled? Would I allow this emotion to grow?
I smiled weakly. Yes, I'll take the risk. If it led to pain, then I will endure it.
Just like what they say, "Enjoy it while it lasts."
I lost track of time and suddenly, I found myself dozing. The next thing I know when I awoke, Alpha Primo is sitting beside me.