The Reluctant Luna

Chapter 43

Dear Somersault,

It's been a while since I've written. School ended. I'm glad to have my degree. It's a strange transition away from something that's been such an integral part of my life for so long.

Things are different now that Oliver knows I'm his mate, but only in subtle ways. The news spread around the pack pretty quickly. People tend to watch me more. I still keep up my café job. I work in the pack kitchens in the evening too, but... that's not the same, either. They're not jobs where I can just blend into the background and focus on my efficiency.

Oliver comes to the café fairly often too, and ... it makes the whole atmosphere more tense somehow. The other diners tend to be more alert and less carefree. It's kind of funny, but also... it's not the same.

He's suggested I leave the jobs and move from the pack house to the Alpha house. He showed me the room. It's more like an apartment. It is complete with a kitchenette, sitting area, master bed, and bath. There's even a spare room. I wouldn't be surprised if the space is bigger than my aunt's old two-story house.

Speaking of which... my aunt and Juniper are gone now. After Juniper healed, Oliver told her she'd have to change packs. After the title challenge, there wasn't much else that could be done, really. It's practically unheard of that someone would survive that kind of situation, and Oliver, Alexander, and I agreed that this was the best option.

Not wanting her to be alone, my aunt decided to leave with Juniper. They'll lose all pack status with the move, So they'll have to build from the ground up.

Mila decided to stay, though. She found her mate in the pack about a month ago. He's a nice guy. We've met up a few times. It's nice to see that Mila is happy. I feel sad that we'd never shared a strong connection. The situation didn't really allow for it, but I think that can change now. I think we can be cousins now, and I can see how that kind of relationship really should be.

As for my aunt and Juniper; I like to believe that a fresh start will allow them to think about who they want to be in this new life. Maybe their new cleaning work will give them the time they need to be more appreciative of the simple things in life...

But that said, my expectations aren't high, and I'm grateful that, no matter what they do moving forward, it doesn't affect me whatsoever. In this way, I can focus on adjusting to my new life and grow into my new role as Luna. I can have all the time I need to heal and build a relationship with Oliver and the rest of the pack.

And in time, I think I will move into the new space in the Alpha house.

It's just that, for now, my space is cozy and safe, and despite its modesty, still feels like a luxury. Until that wears off, I think it's reasonable to stay here and be happy and grateful.

I think that covers almost everything. Alexander's been traveling more in search of his mate. We all meet up at least once every Friday though. Sometimes, we play a game, watch a movie, or cook. Sometimes, it's nice to just sit and talk.

I met with Oliver's Dad also. I'm glad I can. He was pleased to meet Oliver's mate. He was emotional at the thought of the pack having a Luna again, and it gave me a sense of... value. Purpose. Motivation. It's not that I wasn't motivated before, but seeing in him what the position meant... It's not something I'll forget anytime soon.

The healers say his Dad is doing okay for the time being, but... Oliver has fully taken on the Alpha position, and... And I'm reminded of the river of life, and the boat being pulled downstream. I suppose that, in this way, I can understand that life is changing and that, at some point, there will be more things to adjust to.

But for now, things are good. There's a lot to be grateful for. I love my schedule. I love watching the leaves start to change for autumn. I feel sad... but happy, too, that I've grown so much this past year.

I'm reminded of a quote that says, "The most challenging paths lead to the most amazing views." As if part of the joy of success is determined in some measure by the effort put in or the challenge of completing it. I feel sad for the hardship I've had to endure, but, at the same time... I am grateful for it. It helped to make me who I am today. And in this way, I wouldn't change it if I could.

I think I might go shift. I love the freedom of the wind beneath my wings, and the afternoon sun warm on my feathers. It's nice that I can stay close to the pack center. I don't have to go sneaking off into the woods or walk to the outskirts of the pack land.

I'm glad I don't have to hide anymore. I'm glad to have Oliver, and I'm glad that we've agreed to take it slow. We have a date planned for this evening. I'm not supposed to know, but I think it has something to do with the massive trampoline he spent most of yesterday setting up. I spied on his progress as I flew laps around the southern territory.

I hope your day is incredible and full of hope, happiness, and gratitude.

Love Always,

Evelyn

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