Cursed

Introductions

Scarlett

I stared out the window as Cole sped down the road. The drive was only fifteen minutes from where Cole had picked me up, but at his driving speed, we would be there in eight. I wanted to tell him to slow down, but the bitter smell of anger tinged the air around me. Instead, I sat quietly, watching the trees. Within minutes, the turning for my road appeared. It approached quicker and quicker. Then we drove straight past it. I twisted in my seat, watching my road disappear into the distance. 

"You missed the turning," I whisper the words, not wanting to anger the brooding alpha beside me. I wasn't sure why he was angry. It was he who was in the wrong. I was sure Cole had heard my words but ignored them as he continued driving. 

"Cole." His name slipped from my lips, causing his foot to slam on the brakes. I lurched forward, my seatbelt tightening to hold me in place. I snapped my head in Cole's direction. His pitch black eyes were already looking at me. I sniffed the air to find the bitter smell replaced by something sweeter. 

"Say that again, little one." His voice was deeper than I had heard it. I knew I should've felt afraid at this moment, but I didn't. 

"Cole, we went the wrong way. My house is back there." I jabbed my thumb over my shoulder in the rough direction of my house. Cole smiled, the sweet smell thickening the air in the car.

"I would do anything to hear you say my name." Heat rushed up my cheeks. Nervously, I twisted my fingers together, my eyes looking at my joined hands. Cole's hand grasped my chin, forcing me to look at him.

"We are going to the main pack grounds. They are all waiting to meet you." I froze; any colour in my skin had gone. My wolf stilled, too, but she wasn't afraid like I was. She pushed forward, eager to meet the pack. 

"Don't be afraid. I will be right next to you." Cole had bent down towards me, his lips brushing my ear. I shuddered. Cole chuckled and began driving again. He didn't speak for the rest of the drive. That left my nerves to grow.

When the main pack grounds came into view, my stomach churned. The usually open grass area in the centre was crowded with people. They stood facing a stage which had been set up at the far end. Some stalls were surrounding the grass area, where people were selling food and drinks. Each member smiled, conversing with one another. Instantly, my eyes found my mother. She stood off to one side, talking with an elderly lady. Scott was somewhere too, probably running around with the other newly shifted. 

Cole parked the car and got out. I made no move to leave the car. My nerves were fusing my legs into place. Cole came around and opened my door, offering his hand. I tried to move my arm. It was stiff. I was paralysed by my fear. 

Allow me. My wolf's silky voice danced around my head. I gladly gave over control. All colour left my eyes as she reached my hand into Coles. My eyes met Coles' green ones, and he smirked.

"Hello again, my little hellion. Am I forgiven?" His voice was quiet in my ear. My heart skipped a beat at his proximity. His hand rested on the small of my back.

My wolf huffed in response, allowing him to guide us forward. Every member of the pack turned to us. Hushed whispers echoed through the crowd. I looked straight ahead, my wolf stiffening our back. We ascended the stairs. The stares of the pack burned into me. I was thankful my wolf had control. Not a single sound left the crowd as Cole faced them, his finger weaving into mine. Sparks rushed up my arm. 

"Good evening, everyone. I apologise for calling this pack meeting last minute. However, as I am sure many of you have heard, yesterday I met my mate. The soon-to-be luna of this pack. I wish to introduce Scarlett Michaels to all of you." Cole's voice boomed over the audience. They all turned to me. I recognised many faces, but there were a few I didn't know. My wolf allowed her dark eyes to jump between faces, lingering on those who sneered up at us.