✓ | PRIMAL, jacob black ²

chapter six

CHAPTER SIX

As Sam grasped the significance of Aniya, he promptly invited her into their home. Emily couldn't help but be taken aback by his eagerness, and her observant gaze watched him closely.

She noted how his demeanor seemed almost reverent in Aniya's presence, stirring a sense of curiosity within her. Emily's intuition whispered softly to her, confirming her earlier hunch about Aniya.

Emily didn't wish for Aniya's presence to merely benefit the pack. Rather, she longed for her friend to be embraced simply as a trusted friend, devoid of any underlying agenda or motives.

And thus, Emily's desire for Aniya to be treated as a genuine friend was fulfilled. As they settled into the home, Aniya felt a profound sense of comfort and belonging. Emily and Sam welcomed her with warmth, treating her like a treasured friend rather than a mere pawn in the pack's dynamics.

As they all sat together at the table, Sam made an observation to Aniya, remarking, "Emily mentioned that you didn't grow up on the reservation."

Aniya would have normally taken offense if it had been uttered by anyone else, but in the context of her conversation with Sam Uley, it didn't feel like a casual prying question.

Aniya nodded slowly in response, keeping a subtle smile on her face. "I moved here when I was thirteen, together with my older sister and brother. But my brother left a few years ago, and now it's just my sister, her husband, and me." Sam leaned back in his chair, trying to discern more about the girl, despite the fact that he was already privy to this knowledge.

Aniya's perceptive gaze fell upon Sam, taking in his facial expression that seemed to silently implore for more information.

Understanding his unspoken question, she decided to provide an explanation, stating, "I don't know much about my parents, but there's a possibility they once resided in this area. That might be the reason why my family was permitted to stay on the Rez to begin with."

Sam's eyes widened as a pang of guilt washed over him. It was common knowledge that the residents of the rez were closely knit, and there were often regulations regarding who could reside within its boundaries.

In contrast, Juliet's parents lived just beyond the border, thereby avoiding the scrutiny and gossip directed towards those perceived as "outsiders."

Contrarily, the Marjorie family's situation was quite a different tale. The elders elected not to discuss the matter, but the other adults, with their penchant for prying into other people's affairs, became the breeding ground for all the latest gossip.

The markets within the Rez transformed into a hub where housewives would convene in the aisles, engaging in whispered conversations about the intriguing newcomer in town.

Sam's voice quivered with apology as he spoke, his words faltering, "I'm sorry...I didn't mean for you to..." Yet, Aniya merely smiled and dismissed his concern with a wave of her hand.

A hint of relief crossed her face as she responded, "Actually, you have no idea how good it feels to finally tell someone this. I much prefer straight-forward honesty over someone who tiptoes around me."

Emily chuckled and bobbed her head in agreement. "I've learned that too...Perhaps I should've clued Sam in, but I couldn't resist the temptation to be a bit cheeky given the circumstances."

Aniya observed as Sam responded with a slight recoil, and she reassured him further, "It's truly kind of you to be protective of your fiancé, Sam. While your approach may have been a touch impolite, I harbor no ill will, fully aware of your intentions and the reason behind it, you were only concerned about her. I appreciate the fact that you allowed her to continue our friendship."

Sam's voice wavered, tinged with regret as he addressed Aniya, "You have no idea how much I wish to apologize for that, Aniya. It's just-" Sam's words trailed off abruptly as Emily gently reached for his hand, fully aware that he was fixated on the scar once more.

For strangers unaware of its origin, the tale was often spun as a bear attack.

This left Emily feeling self-conscious around certain individuals within the Rez, as they sometimes treated her differently due to the scar. As a result, making friends proved challenging for her, a situation that was undeniably disheartening.

Aniya listened intently, not knowing the pain both Sam and Emily had endured. The air around them seemed heavy as they silently thought about the sensitive topic.

Aniya smiled warmly, her words carrying a gentle acceptance. "It's alright. Apology accepted, and please don't hesitate to ask anything more. Contrary to my usual reserved nature, when I'm around Emily, a switch seems to flip, and I find myself quite loquacious."

Sam nodded in understanding, appreciating Aniya's candidness. He couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that Emily had found someone with whom she could be completely free and open.

Emily smiled, a wave of gratitude washing over her. She was immensely thankful that Aniya was someone with whom she could be unapologetically herself, without worrying about judgment or restraint.

Sam silently observed the two girls as their conversation continued. A sense of ease washed over him as he witnessed the effortless dynamic and authentic friendship between them. It was evident to Sam that their connection was something rare and profound, transcending the bounds of ordinary friendship.