Fated

Chapter four

A few hours have passed since I brought Gaia to my cabin. The sun is setting on the horizon. She's finally sleeping peacefully, her breathing steady and her fever gone. I sit by her side, watching the rise and fall of her chest, feeling a sense of peace I haven't known in a long time. Her presence fills the room with a soothing warmth, making me feel grounded despite the chaos swirling around us. The cabin, my family home, wraps us in its familiar embrace. Pictures of my parents and me line the walls, their smiles a constant reminder of the love and strength that built this place.

The cabin is a testament to my family's legacy, a two-story structure nestled in a clearing surrounded by dense forest. It's a place that exudes warmth and history, with each log and beam telling a story. The exterior is rustic, made of dark wood that has weathered the elements for decades, yet still stands strong and resilient. Large windows offer a view of the surrounding woods, allowing natural light to flood the interior during the day and providing a perfect vantage point to watch the stars at night.

The walls are adorned with photographs and paintings, a visual history of my family. Pictures of my parents, their love for each other evident in every frame, hang prominently. There are also images of me growing up, from awkward childhood phases to my early days as the pack's Alpha. Each piece is a snapshot of time, capturing moments of joy, triumph, and even sorrow.

A staircase leads to the second floor, where the bedrooms are located. The master bedroom, where Gaia now rests, is a sanctuary of tranquility. The large four-poster bed is draped with soft, thick blankets and an abundance of pillows.

Outside, a wraparound porch provides a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air and the sounds of nature. Rocking chairs and a porch swing invite you to sit and relax, while a path leads down to a small creek that runs through the property. The backyard is spacious, with a fire pit surrounded by logs and stones, a favorite gathering spot for the pack.

The cabin is not just a house; it's a home, a place where memories are made and cherished. It's a sanctuary from the outside world, a place where the bonds of family and pack are nurtured and strengthened. As I sit by Gaia's side, the cabin's comforting embrace reminds me of what I'm fighting for – a future filled with love, peace, and the strength of our shared history.

I reluctantly leave her side once I'm sure she'll be okay. The bond between us hums with a comforting rhythm, no longer a source of pain. I head downstairs, where Luke is waiting with updates. His expression is a mix of urgency and concern, a reflection of the gravity of our situation.

"The council members should be here any minute," Luke informs me, his voice tinged with worry.

"Good," I reply, though my mind is still partly upstairs with Gaia. "What's the situation?"

Luke hands me a report, his brow furrowed. "We've had more patrolling wolves injured at the border. Some humans have been killed too. It's happening in the unclaimed territory between us and the Blackstone pack. Their leader isn't responding to our meeting requests."

I grit my teeth, irritation flaring. The Blackstone pack has been a thorn in our side for too long. "We can't afford to lose any more of our community members."

Before Luke can respond, Eleonor arrives, her expression stern. She's always been like a second mother to me, and her disapproval hits hard. "Lex, I heard about the scene you caused earlier. Stealing someone else's fiancée isn't exactly a diplomatic move."

"She's my mate, Eleonor. It doesn't matter," I retort, though I know she's about to challenge me.

"It does matter," she snaps, her eyes blazing. "You need to respect their wishes. Gaia has a choice, and you have to accept whatever she decides."