015
I returned home and let out a deep sigh as I closed the door behind me. My emotions were all over the place, and
I needed a distraction–something to focus on Tonight’s reunion was perfect for that.
Pulling my hair out of its messy bun, I ran my fingers through the strands and headed for the bathroom. A
shower would help me feel more like myself.
As the hot water cascaded over me, I let the tension in my shoulders ease. My thoughts wandered to the Blackthorn headquarters. Moving it to another park or city–state had been on my mind for weeks now, especially with how strained things had become with the Nightfang Pack
The reunion could be my chance to find a way forward. Maybe someone would have a suggestion, or perhaps I could form new connections. Either way, I had to try
Once I was out of the shower, I rummaged through my closet, searching for the perfect outfit. The reunion was important, even if I didn’t feel like putting in the effort.
After some deliberation, I chose a deep emerald green dress that hugged my curves without being too flashy Its halter neckline accentuated my shoulders, and the soft fabric felt like a second skin. Pairing it with sapphire earrings and black heels, I gave myself a once–over in the mirror.
“You can do this,” I whispered to my reflection.
I arrived at the restaurant a little after the appointed time. The private room we had booked was cozy yet elegant, with dim lighting and a long table set for our group. Familiar faces greeted me as I stepped inside. For a moment, nostalgia washed over me.
“Nia! Look who decided to show up,” someone called out their voice laced with humor. It was Jackson, a fellow
pack member from high school. His grin was as mischievous as ever.
“Manhunter’s here!” another voice chimed in, and the room erupted in laughter.
I rolled my eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “Do you guys ever let anything go?”
“Not a chance,” Jackson replied. “Remember when you knocked Amon flat for picking on Claire? Now they’re happily married, and it’s all thanks to you.”
Amon, sitting further down the table, raised his glass with a sheepish grin. “I’ll admit, I deserved that punch. Best thing that ever happened to me.”
The teasing continued, and for a while, the atmosphere was lighthearted. I laughed along with them, my heart feeling lighter than it had in weeks. But as the conversations shifted away from me, I seized the opportunity to steer things toward a topic I’d been eager to discuss.
“So,” I began casually, swirling the wine in my glass, “what’s everyone’s take on relocating a business to a different city–state? Any pitfalls I should watch out for?”
The room quieted as people considered my question. A few offered thoughtful suggestions, while others shared anecdotes from their own experiences.
I nodded, making mental notes of the advice. Just as the conversation was gaining momentum, the door opened
FRICTION THE OMEGARELL
Darius walked in, and my heart skipped a beat. Beside him was Selene, her hand resting lightly on his arm. The room seemed to hold its breath for a moment before erupting into greetings and compliments
“Look at you two,” someone gushed. “You’re practically glowing. What a stunning couple.”
My stomach twisted, but I kept my expression neutral, I reached for my drink, using the motion to ground myself.
*Never thought Darius would settle down,” another voice joked. “Especially not with Selene. Back in school, we all thought he’d end up with Nia. He was the only one who could calm her down when she got mad.”
The laughter that followed was lighthearted, but the air around Darius and Selene grew heavy. Their smiles faltered, and an awkward tension settled over the table. Darius cleared his throat, clearly searching for a way to
change the subject
I felt their eyes on me, waiting for a reaction. But instead of anger or sadness, I found myself feeling…nothing. Darius was a stranger to me now, his presence no longer evoking the storm of emotions it once did. I raised my glass in a silent toast to him and Selene, then turned back to my conversation as if nothing had happened
“Nia,” someone called, pulling my attention. I looked up to see Jackson waving me over, Reluctantly, I joined him, and the conversation shifted again. By the time I’d gathered the information I needed, the evening was winding. down. Standing, I addressed the group with a smile.
*Thanks for tonight, everyone. Drinks are on me. Enjoy the rest of your evening ”
A chorus of thanks followed me as I made my way to the door. Just as I stepped outside, I bumped into
someone.
“Oh, sorry,” I began, but the words caught in my throat.
It was him. The stranger with piercing green eyes and a faint scent of mint. The one who’d lingered in my thoughts more often than I cared to admit.
“We meet again,” he said, a small smile tugging at his lips.
I managed a polite smile in return. “Seems that way”
He stepped aside, and I walked past him, my mind already spinning with plans for the next steps in moving the headquarters. But even as I focused on the task ahead, I couldn’t shake the memory of his eyes–or the strange pull! felt every time we crossed paths.
