Shadows // Stiles Stilinski x Male OC

8

**Alex's POV**

I was born a Caster, a powerful being with supernatural abilities. But I'm not just any Caster; I'm a Natural, an extremely rare type. Naturals are far more powerful and stronger than regular Casters, possessing additional powers that vary for each of us. I moved in with my uncle to prepare for my claiming.

In my family, when Casters turn 16, we are "claimed" as either a Light or Dark Caster. The universe decides our fate, not our own preference. As my 16th birthday approaches, I can't shake the fear of being claimed by the Dark. It would mean more than just gaining access to Dark magic; it would change my very nature. To make matters worse, there's a constant reminder of my impending fate. On my hand, there's a tattoo that acts as a countdown to my birthday, to the day I'll be claimed. Today, it reads "97," meaning I have just 97 days left. The numbers change every day, a haunting reminder of the ticking clock.

Sometimes, I find myself lying awake at night, my mind racing with the possibilities. What if I become Dark? Will I lose myself? Will I hurt the people I care about? The uncertainty gnaws at me, a constant weight on my shoulders.

Moving in with my uncle was supposed to help me prepare, but it often feels like it's only added to my anxiety. His old mansion is filled with secrets and shadows, and while he tries to guide me, I can't help but feel the pressure building.

I've tried to keep my fear hidden, but sometimes it feels like it's written all over my face. I catch myself staring at my reflection, searching for signs of the change. Every time I use my powers, there's a moment of doubt, a fleeting fear that this might be the time it all goes wrong, sometimes I can't even control it.

Despite my worries, I know I have to face my fate. I can't run from it, and I can't hide. All I can do is hope that when the time comes, I'll be strong enough to handle whatever the universe decides.

What makes everything worse is Stiles. He just entered my life out of nowhere. I tried to stay away, but he keeps coming to me, stubborn to a fault. Despite everything, he makes me feel somewhat normal, a feeling I've never known. I've noticed the way he looks at me, trying to read me. It scares me. Sometimes, I think he's suspicious, maybe he believes some of the gossip the people in town spread about me.

Maybe I should tell him everything. But what if he's scared of me? I would be if I were him. He's trying to get into my life, even though I don't want him to. My family doesn't trust easily, and I know how they act around people they don't trust.

"What did you do to him?" I yell at my uncle after Stiles left the house.

"I agreed to let you attend school in this town, but no friendships," he says firmly.

"Could you not at least let me pretend until my birthday?" I plead.

"You remember what happened at the last school? This window shattering is just the beginning. That boy is a danger to you. Don't invite him here again," he commands.

"Oh, I wouldn't worry. I'm sure he won't be back," I say, storming to my room in anger.

***********
Days later, I found myself lost in thought by my window when movement outside caught my eye. Stiles, of all people, was lingering outside. What brought him back here? He glanced around cautiously before making his way to the back of the house. Intrigued, I went to another window, quietly observing his actions. When he caught sight of me, he gestured subtly, indicating the tree where we had shared a moment together previously. It seemed he wanted to meet me there.

"You came back," I said, my curiosity piqued.

"Yeah. I-- I'm sorry. I don't know what happened to me in there," Stiles replied nervously.

"It's not your fault," I assured him, our eyes locking for a moment.