Haven't Seen The Light In A While

Chapter Twenty-Five

Melody

Vince and I strolled back to the pack house, our fingers intertwined, warmth radiating between us as we navigated the familiar path. Upon pushing open the heavy front door, we were immediately enveloped by the inviting sounds of conversation and laughter. The living room was alive with energy, filled with pack members who had chosen to gather here for the holiday season, seeking connection and companionship in a space that felt like home. The vibrant chatter and the scent of festive treats wafting through the air created an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy, a true testament to the spirit of togetherness.

The fireplace crackled softly, its warm glow illuminating the cozy living room and casting dancing shadows on the walls. The faint sound of Christmas music drifted from the TV, filling the air with a festive cheer that mingled with the scent of pine from the beautifully decorated tree in the corner.

The tree was a sight to behold, its branches laden with glimmering ornaments, twinkling lights, and ribbons of rich red and gold. Beneath its boughs, the space was overflowing with an assortment of gifts, each wrapped in colorful paper and adorned with oversized bows, creating a tantalizing anticipation in the air.

As I stepped into the room, a wave of tension washed over me, my heart racing at the sight of the presents. Yet, that anxiety was quickly soothed by Vince's gentle touch, resting firmly on the small of my back. His reassuring presence urged me forward, and I felt a sense of calm as he quietly closed the door behind us, sealing us in this warm little world of holiday splendor.

My gaze swept across the lively gathering and finally settled on Sam, animatedly chatting with his fellow pack members. His face was alight with joy, and I could easily read his lips as he expressed how happy he was to have them around, the warmth of his smile infectious. I began to scan the crowd for Rory and Odin amid the many pack members, but despite my efforts, I could not spot Rory's fiery red hair, a vibrant beacon I usually relied on to find him. Most of the faces I saw belonged to omegas from my old pack, their expressions a mix of comfort and excitement. Just then, Vince leaned closer, his mouth brushing against my ear, sending a shiver down my spine.

"Don't be shy now, Mel. Please talk with some of the omegas from your old pack. You haven't been socializing much."

I nodded silently and walked into the living room to see if I could recognize anyone well enough to remember their names. Everyone looked so different and healthier. I sighed, ultimately lacking the confidence to approach anyone and start a conversation. I stood in front of the Christmas tree, my back to the crowd of pack members, admiring the various ornaments and gifts wrapped in different wrapping paper patterns. Suddenly, someone embraced me from behind, resting their chin on my head. I jumped slightly, snapping out of my focused state.

"What are you doing staring at the Christmas tree for?"

Rory's raspy voice vibrated against my back as I smiled lightly.

"I was admiring the ornaments."

Rory's arms around my waist tightened slightly, not possessively but steadying. "Yeah?" he rasped, his voice quiet against my hair. "You like them?"

I nodded. "They're beautiful."

"You're beautiful," he said softly, "This whole house could be wrapped in lights, but you're still the best thing in it."

I huffed a weak laugh, my heart pounding too fast. "You're such a sap."

"Yeah," he said. "But it's your first real Christmas, so I'm allowed."

That single sentence curled around my chest and squeezed. Not because it surprised me—of course, they knew. They all knew. They'd been preparing for weeks, whispering plans I wasn't supposed to overhear, dragging in decorations and arguing over tree placement and Christmas cookie recipes like it was life or death.