Serena
Returning to my room after that intense chat with Ashford, I felt like a ship caught in a tempestuous sea. My thoughts were a tangled mess. Damon's hidden truths and the dire state of Goldenridge had left me emotionally battered. However, it was the haunting image of my best friend, Shey, losing her Alpha father, Uncle Craig, that gnawed at my soul. I longed for Shey's presence, desiring to stand by her side and offer solace during what might be the worst storm she would ever face in her life.
Right now, all I could do for her was to ask the moon goddess to give her the strength to carry on. Feeling overwhelmed and needing a break from all the chaos in my head, I suddenly decided to go out for a run. I sought comfort in a straightforward jog around the camp. As I ran, the wind blowing through my hair seemed like a determined effort to sweep away the troubles clouding my thoughts. But no matter how fast or long I ran, my concerns clung to me like an unwavering shadow. Nevertheless, it still made me feel better. Being a werewolf, running was indeed a great way to clear your mind.
I suddenly felt incredibly tired, making it hard to catch my breath. My throat was so dry it felt like a desert. I needed water badly.
I followed the gentle sound of a nearby stream and stumbled upon its source. I quickly scooped some water into my hands and eagerly took a refreshing sip. The cool liquid briefly relieved my tired body and soul. I couldn’t help but smile and feel grateful for the relief it provided.
As I paused to catch my breath, my eyes widened in shock, and my heart started pounding again. Out of the water emerged something. No, someone. When I turned to face him, I realized it was the same guy who had rudely peeped at me last time. My anger flared up upon seeing him, and I couldn't hold back my frustration any longer.
“What the hell? Are you following me, you pervert?!!" I spat, my voice sharp and accusing.
He responded with a smug grin, his confidence evident in his gaze. "Who's the pervert now, huh?” he uttered as he looked at the lower part of his body with a smirk.
My cheeks burned with embarrassment as I realized he was naked. “Ah! What are you, a caveman? Don’t you know what clothes are for?”
He quickly grabbed the towel at his side and covered himself. “Are you wearing clothes when you take a bath? I don’t think so,” he chuckled while continuing, “Besides, you’re the one who keeps coming to my little spot. Did you find it that interesting to follow me around?”
I clenched my fists, my irritation boiling over. The nerve of this guy! “Your 'little spot'? This is the camp's territory, not your personal hideaway!"
He chuckled once more, seemingly unfazed by my anger. He looked more satisfied that he had irritated me this way. "Well, I reckon I found it first. You can't blame a man for enjoying the view."
My face turned crimson with anger, but I resisted the urge to engage further. Instead, I turned to leave, determined not to give him the satisfaction of a retort. My mind was still swirling with a mix of emotions as I walked away from the unexpected encounter. That pervert had surely destroyed what should have been a peaceful night of running for me. I guess this wasn’t my lucky day, huh?
***
I woke up to the sound of bustling activity outside my tent. It was as if the entire camp had sprung to life, and the air was electric with excitement. People were talking in hushed, eager voices, and the clatter of preparation filled the air. Something big was happening, and I couldn't help but be curious.
As I poked my head out of my tent, I noticed that everyone was buzzing with anticipation. They hurried about, their faces lit up with excitement. It was clear that this was no ordinary day in our camp. Whatever was going on, it was a big deal, and everyone seemed to be taking it very seriously.
I approached a group of camp members who were deep in conversation, their expressions animated. “Hey,” I began, my curiosity getting the better of me, “what's all the fuss about?”
One of them turned to me with a wide grin. “Alexei is calling for a meeting. It's a special occasion every time he gathers everyone around, and it's been a while since our last one.”
My heart skipped a beat at the mention of Alexei. I had heard so much about him from Lia and the others, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation building within me. This was my chance to finally meet the camp leader in person and see for myself what everyone had been talking about. Besides, he was the one who saved me from the rogue attack. I owe him my life and need to express my gratitude for what he did.
Without wasting any time, I decided to join the bustling crowd. I wanted to be part of this special occasion and meet the renowned Alexei for myself. As I made my way toward the kitchen to help, I couldn't help but wonder what he looked like. Judging by the way they described him, I bet he was an older, accomplished wolf and an enigmatic leader.
Finally, the time for the assembly had arrived. We, the kitchen staff, lined up long tables around the campground and arranged the food we had prepared. The camp dwellers began to arrive and gather around. It felt like a reunion for all of them, and I could sense the festive atmosphere in the air.
Just then, Ollie gave the floor to the man of the hour. But as soon as I glanced at his face, a grim realization flooded over me.
For the man I had been so eager to meet was the same pervert I encountered on the river!