The howl of my heart

Chapter 9

As they walked through the dark forest, Elena's heart pounded with fear and uncertainty. She could feel Nick's tension and worry radiating from him as he led the way, his alpha senses on high alert. Finally, after what felt like hours of trudging through the eerie forest, they reached a clearing.

Elena took a deep breath and spoke up, trying to sound confident. "Nick, I don't think we should stay here. It's not safe. We don't know what kind of territory we're in, and we could easily be found by rogues or border control. I think we should try to find the main road and walk along it. At least that way we might be able to figure out where we are and which way to go."

Nick looked at her skeptically. "Elena, we don't know how far away the road is, or even if there is one nearby. We could be wandering around in circles for hours, wasting valuable time. We need to rest and gather our strength for tomorrow."

Elena shook her head. "I understand that, Nick, but we can't risk staying here. We need to keep moving and find a safer place to rest. Maybe we can find a gas station or a diner, somewhere with people who can help us."

Nick hesitated, then nodded slowly. "Okay, you're right. Let's go."

As they walked through the forest, Elena could feel her heart racing with fear and adrenaline. Every rustle in the bushes, every snap of a twig, made her jump. But she pushed through her fear and focused on the goal: finding a safe place to rest and regroup.

Finally, they reached the main road just as the sun was rising. Elena felt a rush of relief and joy at the sight of the open road stretching out before them, and the beautiful mountains in the distance. "We made it," she said softly, feeling a surge of pride in herself and Nick.

Nick looked at her with a smile of admiration. "You were right, Elena. You're brave and smart. I'm glad I have you with me."

Elena smiled back, feeling a warmth in her chest at Nick's words. They continued along the road, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

***

As they walked down the main road, Elena couldn't help but feel a sense of relief as they left the forest behind. She felt a newfound sense of bravery and strength within herself, knowing that they were able to navigate through the dangerous forest and find their way to safety.

When they arrived at the diner, Elena was grateful for the warmth and comfort of the place. The diner was cozy, with red leather booths and a counter lined with barstools. The smell of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling bacon filled the air. They ordered breakfast, and Nick excused himself to make a phone call while Elena went to the bathroom to freshen up.

As she washed her hands, Elena looked at her reflection in the mirror. She was surprised at the confident look on her face. She knew that she was becoming stronger and more capable, and she felt proud of herself for it.

When she returned to the table, Nick was off the phone and they dug into their breakfast. As they finished their meal, a car pulled up outside the diner. Nick's friend had arrived.

Nick went out to meet his friend, leaving Elena alone in the diner for a few moments. She took the opportunity to observe the new arrival from afar. Nick's friend was tall and muscular, with a rugged look about him. He had a serious expression on his face, but his eyes sparkled with warmth and kindness.

As Nick and Jake stand outside the diner, Jake leans against his car and looks at Nick quizzically. "So, who's the girl?"

Nick responds, "She's part of my pack, but I'm not quite sure what her deal is. There's something about her that gives off a sense of power."

Jake nods slowly. "I haven't even met her yet, but I can feel her presence in the diner already. It's strange... Is she an alpha?"

Nick shakes his head and says, "No, her parents are both omegas. It's strange, but there must be something special about her. My father was way too eager to force us to be mates, he would never accept an omega mate for me, unless there was something special about her."

Jake laughs a bit and then, looks thoughtful for a moment before nodding and saying, "I see. Well, I'm sure we'll figure it out eventually."

Just then, Betty, the waitress who had taken Nick and Elena's order at the diner, walks out of the door and says, "Hey there, boys. Did you enjoy your breakfast?"

Nick smiles and nods, saying, "Yes, it was great. Thanks, Betty."

She was a middle-aged woman with short, curly hair and a friendly demeanour. Betty grins and winks at Nick before walking away. 

Jake looks at Nick and smirks, "Looks like you have a fan, man."

Nick rolls his eyes and chuckles, "She's just being friendly."

The  men make their way back in to the dinner and as they approached the table, Elena stands up to greet Jack. After the introduction Jake shook Elena's hand firmly and gave her a warm smile.

"Nick has told me all about you, Elena," Jake said. "I'm glad to finally meet you in person."

Elena felt a sense of gratitude towards Nick and Jake for accepting her into their world. 

***

Nick, Jake, and Elena finish their meal and walk out of the diner. As they walk towards the car Jake suddenly expresses his concern about being on someone else's territory.

Jake: "Look Nick, we should move out of here as soon as possible. I do not want to accidentally run into Joseph."

Nick: "Why would we run into him here?"

Jake: "Well, this is now his territory."

Nick: "Since when? How did he do that?"

"He's been expanding for a while now, as you know," Jake replied. "And a few months ago, he approached the local mayor and got this town part of his territory too."

Elena, who had been walking a few paces behind them, caught up and overheard their conversation. "Who is Joseph?" she asked.

"He's the alpha of the neighbouring pack," Nick explained, "but we don't like him very much. He's an arrogant, pompous buffoon who thinks he's better than everyone else."

Elena furrowed her brow. "But aren't all alphas like that?" she asked. "Why is he any different?"

Nick sighed. "Well, I guess some are worse than others. Joseph just takes it to another level. He's always been a bully, even when we were kids. And now that he's in charge of his own pack, it's just gotten worse."

"I see," Elena said, nodding her head. "Well, I'm glad I'm not part of his pack then."