Bloodlines and Betrayal

12. 🐺

Have you ever had one of those painfully awkward moments where someone interrupts a private moment with the worst possible timing? You know, the kind that makes you wish you could vanish into your bed and never come out again? I seem to attract these situations like a magnet, and trust me, it never gets any easier.

One evening stands out in my memory like a cruel reminder of my misfortune. It was supposed to be the perfect night—a romantic date by the lake on our pack's territory, set up just for me and a boy from another pack. I'd planned everything meticulously: blankets spread out, a bonfire crackling in the distance, candlelight flickering in the evening breeze, and a dinner that smelled delicious enough to make my mouth water. The atmosphere was perfect, and I was counting on this night to be one of those moments I would remember forever.

But then—of course—Colton, my overprotective twin brother, had to make his entrance.

Now, Colton had a knack for showing up at the worst times. This time was no different. He burst into the scene like a whirlwind, his red-faced hair in total disarray, and his expression a mix of fury and embarrassment. It was almost comical, the way he looked like he'd just stepped out of a bad slapstick comedy.

And then there was the fact that he was in his boxers.

I could hardly believe it when he marched over, grabbed me, and hoisted me into his arms—blanket and all—without giving me a chance to protest. It was an absurd mix of emotions: mortification, relief, and a strange sense of helplessness as I was carried away from the romantic setting I'd so carefully crafted. Colton, of course, was muttering about how dangerous it was for me to be out here alone, and I'm pretty sure he warned my date to stay away from me in a voice loud enough for the entire pack to hear.

As if that wasn't enough, he gave me a stern command to go home, telling me to pack up my things quickly as though I were some kind of helpless child. It felt like my night was ruined before it even had a chance to begin.

Sometimes, I wish the twin telepathy we share didn't work so well—especially in moments like these. But I suppose it's handy when we're in danger... just not when it comes to spoiling my personal life.

Fast forward to today, and things weren't looking much better. School was dragging on, and the only thing keeping me from zoning out was the thought of seeing Alex in history class. He was a guy I'd been hoping to get to know better, and the class was the perfect opportunity to spend some time with him.

History came after math, which, for me, was always a struggle. Numbers had never been my strong suit, and transitioning from formulas to historical events was like switching gears in a race car. But I pushed through it, my thoughts drifting back to Alex and the idea of finally getting to spend some quality time with him.

As I walked into the classroom, absorbed in my phone, I wasn't paying attention to what was in front of me—until it was too late. I collided with a desk, nearly tripping over it, but thankfully, Alex was right there, his strong arms catching me just before I could fall.

I looked up into his eyes, and my heart skipped a beat. It was that moment—the one where everything seemed to stop, and all I could focus on was him. He grinned at me, teasing, "Hey, cupcake. Glad I caught you before you turned into a pancake."

I couldn't help but laugh, brushing off the minor embarrassment. "Yeah, I guess my balance isn't as steady as I thought. It's a miracle I haven't tripped during cheerleading."

Alex's eyes sparkled with humor. "Why don't you sit next to me today? We can work on our project together."

I nodded, my heart racing with the prospect of spending more time with him. "Sounds like a good idea," I said as I slid into the seat beside him. "I'll be glad to get some work done."