After a few hours of sleep on the plane, the warm touch of Castor’s hand woke me up. I covered my wide yawn with my hand, wiped the corners of my eyes, and stretched out my arms to refresh myself.
“We’ve arrived, my precious.”
I quickly straightened up. Looking around, I heard the cheerful chatter of the twins getting closer. My hands were busy organizing the items I had taken out of my handbag.
Just as the twins reached my side, Castor suddenly crouched down to get on Care’s level. He raised one corner of his mouth and asked, “Did you enjoy flying on the plane?”
“It was awesome, Alpha! Alpha Pollux said this plane is yours, so thanks for letting us ride on it!” “You’re welcome. I’m glad you enjoyed it.”
Care seemed more interested in talking with Castor than with me. They exited the plane together, while I stayed behind with Mia, followed closely by Pollux. Though Mia’s hand was colder than usual, she looked as happy as her twin.
I glanced back to make sure Declan was with us. Soon enough, he came down with Lizzie, looking grumpy. I was certain he was still bothered by something he had been holding back since we left.
A strong breeze carried the scent of the sea to where I stood. Gazing out, I saw the sun tilting westward, though its warm orange glow hadn’t yet dimmed the bright daylight of Trionia. I liked the atmosphere; it was refreshing and relaxing.
When we arrived at the cottage, we were greeted by a local couple with dark skin. They spoke our language fluently and pointed out different areas of the cottage. I noticed them whispering in their native language with curious glances directed at me.
In response, I offered them a warm smile, and they respectfully bowed their heads. After explaining that they would be taking care of us and the cottage during our stay, I sank into the sofa, stretching every stiff muscle in my body.
“Mom, can I have the room with the pool view?” Mia asked, running up to me, her freckled face so close I could see her big, pleading eyes.
Care rushed over and pulled her back, grumbling, “I already called dibs on that room, Mom! Seriously… do I always have to be the one to give in?”
“You both can share that room. We’re only here for a week. What have I always said about sharing?”
Care crossed his arms, pouting. “But, Mom, there’s only one bed in there. I don’t want Mia kicking me all night!”
Mia gasped, offended. “I don’t kick anyone in my sleep!” she protested, hands on her hips.
Pollux chuckled and stepped in, waving them closer. “Alright, listen up, kiddos,” he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “I’ve got an idea. Care, come over here-this one’s just between us guys.”
I raised an eyebrow as Pollux interrupted our argument. He crouched and leaned close to Care, whispering something that piqued my curiosity. Care broke into a wide grin and nodded, following Pollux out of the cottage.
“What are they up to? Alpha Pollux always has a plan and changes the mood instantly.”
“I don’t know. They’re speaking normally,” Castor said, taking off his jacket and heading into the bedroom. “I have a feeling this vacation will be full of surprises.”
“I’ll join you in the room after I help Mia with her things.” I called out to Castor. “Let’s unpack your stuff now, Mia.”
I looked around the room the twins would share. No wonder they were fighting over it-the pool right outside the window was full of colorful koi fish swimming freely. The twins had never seen koi before.
“Mom, can I ask you something?”
I stopped unpacking their clothes, took a deep breath, and smiled. “Sure, sweetie. What’s on your mind?”
“What does ‘Alpha’ mean? You call both of those guys Alpha.”
I let out a slow breath before answering. “They’re leaders, people who are respected and have a lot of influence in their pack.”
“Were you part of their pack before? Yesterday you said something felt weird between you and them. Is that because of the whole ‘pack’ thing?”
I felt a bit lost, wondering how to explain grown-up feelings to a child her age. Finding the right words wasn’t easy.
“Are you mad at me for asking, Mom?” Mia gently touched my face, her little hand warm. “You went quiet and didn’t answer.”
“No, honey. I’m not mad. Here’s the thing: when grown-ups have problems with each other, sometimes it makes them a little sensitive. It’s kind of like when you get that itchy peanut allergy-you need some time and a bit of medicine to feel better.” I paused, looking into her curious eyes. “Mommy’s still healing, you know? Does that make sense?”
Mia nodded, thoughtful. “I hope you feel better soon and get back with the Alphas and the pack. Mommy… I hate that itchy feeling.”
I hugged her close, chuckling. “Yeah, me too, sweetheart.”
It turned out to be easier than I’d expected to explain my feelings to Mia. Maybe it was because we were both girls. Even though she was young, she understood my explanation and hugged me, comforting me like Castor did when I felt troubled.
My attention was pulled to Pollux and Care as they entered the room, carrying a large bag together. The loud thud as they set it on the wooden floor grabbed my attention. Pollux opened the bag and took something out.
Rope?
“What are you guys planning to do with that?” I moved over from the edge of the bed and crouched down beside them. “Learning some knot-tying?”
“Exactly, Luna. Knot-tying’s one of the basics they teach at werewolf academy for survival out in the wild. You won’t always be crashing on the ground in wolf form. Gotta take care of your human body, too-make things a little cozier.”
Pollux’s casual revelation stunned me. He was openly discussing our identity in front of the twins. I froze for a moment, watching their reactions.
“You told Care about who he really is?” I asked Pollux, trying to keep my voice steady.
[Yep, did it yesterday while you were busy with the travel agent.]
“How’d that even work? I mean, Care… he seems so normal.”
[Better sooner than later, sweet pea. I just went with the quick route-you know how I roll.]
[I can hear you two whispering, you know,] Care cut in, sounding a bit annoyed. [Can you quit the chit-chat and help me? This rope’s heavy!]
Honestly, I was surprised. I’d forgotten that Care could mind-link, even though he wasn’t of age yet. My jaw dropped as I looked from him to Mia. To my surprise, Mia was helping Care, her small hands working alongside his.