Forever Luna

Taxing

adjective ~ physically or mentally demanding

POLLUX

You know it's going to be a hard day when you wake feeling crap.

Waking up with a headache instantly put me in a grump. After knocking back two painkillers, I sat on the edge of my bed, waiting for it to dissipate. Staring out the window, I was glad to see the day was going to a be clear skies. There was a gentle breeze too, and the trees swayed with the movement.

What a day to be leaving.

After the headache subsided, I washed and dressed for the day. I would spend the first hour by taxicab just to get me away from pack grounds. I figured once I was in a vehicle, there was less chance of me stopping and turning around.

I have been in this pack for around a year, and I couldn't fathom leaving the itch in my brain alone. I needed more. And today was the day I would finally get some. More, that is.

I was due to leave after breakfast. Having already snoozed my alarm twice whilst waking up to the aftereffects of party-Charlie, I would not be on time if I waited any longer.

Party Charlie.

I shook my head. What was meant to be a cute goodbye 'get-together' definitely turned into a party. Once alcohol and a game were involved, it was downhill from there. They forced me to drink god-forsaken lager, and could still feel the bubbles burning my gut now. Then top it off with some strange vodka mix that was way too strong to be normal, and I was a goner.

I remember little from last night, but I remember a huge fight.

Sean was naked. Charlie was avoiding my sister. Nova was a human barrier for Leo against his mate, and Molly... What was it? My memories were warped. The last thing I remembered was her telling Sean to cover his dick before I fell asleep beside Calida.

I pressed my fingers into my eyes as I left my home and walked toward the pack house kitchen.

Why did Molly get upset?

What were we doing before? Beer pong, right? Then truth or dare was involved, and that was when Sean got naked. Then Leo missed his shot, and... Oh!

Oh, dear.

I remember now.

There were tears and a lot of raised voices I did not care for.

Entering the kitchen, I cautiously eyed the open space. It was the end of breakfast time, so I knew I would not see many people here. Plating myself something with meat for my day ahead, I grabbed a coffee for good measure.

It was going to be some long few weeks, and I needed to get back into shape. I wasn't large by all means, but my stamina was something I had going for me. I could walk all day without tiring, and I feared my lazy year may put that to the test.

I ate in peace for a solid two minutes, watching the room pass me by. There were a few well wishes from people I did not know very well, and I nodded politely in thanks. But then all peace eventually ends.

A firm hand landed on my shoulder, spreading warmth through the t-shirt I wore. Already knowing who it was, I sighed softly.

"Haven't you annoyed me enough?"

Charlie chuckled, sitting down opposite me. "You think I'm annoying?"

"You got me drunk. Again." I deadpanned.

He shook his head, pointing a croissant at me. "Nu-uh! You drank willingly."

"It was way too strong!" I complained. "After two cups, the world was spinning!"