The howl of my heart

Chapter 4

Elena and her best friend, Zoe, were sitting on Elena's bed, flipping through magazines and discussing what they were going to wear to Elena's upcoming 16th birthday party. They chatted about everything from boys to school to their hopes and dreams for the future. Elena had always hoped to find a mate who would love her and never leave her, just like her parents.

As Elena sat on her bed with her friend Zoe, she couldn't help but feel grateful for having such a wonderful friend. They were currently looking through dresses and deciding what they would wear for Elena's upcoming 16th birthday.

As they talked, Elena's mother popped her head in the room

"Would you girls like some tea and sandwiches?" Elena's mother asked as she walked into the room.

"Yes, please," Elena replied, smiling at her mother.

"Thank you," Zoe added.

Elena's mother left the room and returned a few minutes later with a tray of tea and sandwiches. She placed it on the bed in front of the girls.

"So, what are you two up to?" Elena's mother asked, taking a seat next to them.

"We're just looking at dresses for Elena's 16th birthday," Zoe replied.

"Oh, that's exciting," Elena's mother said, a smile on her face. "Do you have any ideas of what you want to wear?"

"I'm not sure yet," Elena replied. "But I want it to be special."

"I'm sure it will be," her mother said before she left the room.

As the girls started to nibble on their sandwich the conversation turned to Elena's first shift.

Zoe had already gone through the experience and explained to Elena that it could be painful, but also very rewarding. Zoe told Elena that once she meets her wolf, she will have a friend for life that would never leave her.

Zoe: "It's going to be painful, Elena, but it's worth it. Once you meet your wolf, you'll never be the same."

Elena: "I'm so nervous, Zoe. What if it's too painful, or what if I don't shift at all?"

Zoe: "Trust me, you will shift. It's just a matter of time. And as for the pain, it's temporary. The feeling of freedom and connection with your wolf is worth it."

Elena: "What does it feel like to shift?"

Zoe: "It's hard to describe, but you'll feel your bones changing, your muscles stretching and contracting. It can be a little scary at first, but just remember to breathe and let it happen."

Elena: "What about control? Will I be able to control my wolf?"

Zoe: "It takes practice, but eventually, you'll learn to control your wolf. You'll develop a bond, and it'll become easier to communicate with her. Just remember, your wolf is a part of you, and you're a part of her."

Elena: "I'm scared, but I'm also excited. I can't wait to meet my wolf."

Zoe: "I'm excited for you, Elena. And I'll be here to help you through it. We'll celebrate after your shift, and we'll have a party for your 16th birthday. It's going to be amazing."

Elena was excited and nervous about her first shift. She wanted to be able to run free as a wolf and experience the world in a new way. But she was also worried about the pain and the unknown. Zoe reassured her that it would be okay and that she would be there to support her.

Zoe: "So, have you been thinking about meeting your mate on your birthday?" Zoe has already turned 16, but it seems that her mate is not in our pack.

Elena: "A little bit. I mean, I know it's not guaranteed, but it's still exciting to think about."

Zoe: "Definitely. I remember when I turned 16 and had my first shift, I was so nervous about meeting my mate, well I still am, I know he will find me eventually."

Elena: "Really? What do you think this is going to be like?"

Zoe: "Well, I think its probably going to be a little overwhelming at first. I mean, meeting the person you're destined to spend the rest of your life with can be pretty intense. But once you get to know him, it should just felt right, you know? Like we were meant to be together."

Elena: "That sounds wonderful. I hope I have that kind of connection with my mate."

Zoe: "I'm sure you will. And even if you don't meet him on your birthday, it doesn't mean he's not out there. You just have to be patient and trust that the universe will bring you two together when the time is right. That is what I am hoping for."

Elena: "Thanks, Zoe. That makes me feel a little better. I just hope he's kind and loving, and that he'll never leave me."

Zoe: "Of course he will be. You deserve nothing less than the best, Elena."

As she settled into bed that night, Elena thought about her hopes for the future. She dreamed of finding a mate who would love her and stand by her, just like her parents had. And she knew that she would continue to rely on the support of her friends and family. Little did she know that at her 16th birthday party her life will change in many ways but not as she is expecting it.