Morning light filtered through the cracks in the treehouse, casting long shadows on the floor. I sat up, feeling the strange combination of tension and excitement that had settled in my chest. Yesterday's events played over in my mind like a twisted fairytale. Henry's capture, my unexpected alliance with Peter Pan, and the dark promise of a new beginning.
A soft knock at the door broke my thoughts. "Come in," I called, trying to keep my voice steady.
Devin entered, carrying a tray with breakfast. "Morning, y/n. Peter asked me to bring you this," he said, placing the tray on a small wooden table. His eyes held a mixture of curiosity and sympathy, but I didn't care for his pity.
"Thanks," I mumbled, not meeting his gaze. Devin lingered for a moment before turning to leave.
As I finished my meal, I decided to explore the camp. The Lost Boys eyed me with a mix of suspicion and curiosity, their faces young but hardened by their lives here. I wandered, keeping my senses alert for any sign of Peter.
I found him at the edge of the camp, sharpening a dagger. He looked up as I approached, a sly smile spreading across his face. "Good morning, love. Sleep well?"
"Enough with the pleasantries, Pan," I said, crossing my arms. "What's your plan?"
He raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Plan? What makes you think I have a plan?"
I rolled my eyes. "Come on, you're Peter Pan. Everything about you screams 'master manipulator'. What do you need me for?"
Peter's smile widened, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "You catch on quickly. I like that. But all in good time. For now, just know that I have my reasons for everything I do."
His cryptic answer only fueled my curiosity, but I knew better than to push him for more. "Fine. What do you need me to do?"
Peter stood, sheathing his dagger. "I need you to ensure Hook and the others don't interfere with my plans. Distract them, mislead them—do whatever it takes to keep them away."
A wicked grin spread across my face. "Consider it done."
As we made our way back to camp, I felt a strange sense of camaraderie with Peter. He was dangerous, no doubt, but he was also offering me something I'd never had before: a chance to prove myself, to be part of something powerful.
Back at camp, the Lost Boys were gathered around the fire, their eyes following us as we approached. Peter climbed onto a rock and raised his arms, calling for their attention.
"Listen up, boys! We have a new ally," he announced, pointing at me. "Y/n is one of us now. Treat her as such."
The boys cheered, their voices echoing through the jungle. Felix gave me a nod of approval, and even Devin managed a small smile.
As the camp settled down for the night, I found myself standing at the edge of the clearing, looking out into the dark expanse of Neverland. The stars above twinkled like distant promises, and for the first time in a long while, I felt a glimmer of hope.
Peter joined me, his presence both comforting and unsettling. "Welcome to the team, love," he said softly.
"Thanks," I replied, not taking my eyes off the horizon. "Let's make sure Hook and the others regret ever crossing us."
Peter chuckled, a dark, melodic sound. "Oh, we will, y/n. We will."
