Jane |18+| ✔️

41. The time I became apprehensive and Aware

Jane

Months have passed since applying for passage into Blood Moon territory. I haven't heard anything, but to be fair, I doubted from the beginning that I would. Putting aside the prerequisites—which are ridiculous, and the fact I don't exactly fit the bill—the borders remain closed to all leisure-seeking newcomers. They seemed to have eased their ways on those of the shifter community who happen to be commuting for business—or so I've heard through the grapevine—Lannister being that vine.

Lanny has been an immeasurable source and ally as we widdle our way through my muddled mind. Even with him incredibly busy with school, we frequently talk as I give him updates on what I've uncovered from my constant research or some details from my dreams involving Silas—which are now very far and few between. However, there are a few secrets I've kept to myself out of concern for my friend. Now that he's home for the holiday season, it's been a bit of a struggle to hide what I've been keeping under wraps, but so far, so good.

My spirit continues to falter, and my health is far from excellent—but I keep idling in my hometown, waiting for the inevitable to happen. In the meantime, I'm busting my ass working with not only my parents at night but also waitressing at two places during the day and bartending the odd night I have off. I'm hellbent on getting my own place as soon as possible—and the only way to do that is to work practically around the clock.

Being back under my parents' roof has been challenging, if nothing else. I love them, but working and living with them has been a nightmare, and I think they would agree with that, too. I'm wrecked, but it beats the heck out of sleeping and seeing Silas in his...

"So, what do you think?" My thoughts shatter as I focus on the cold early winter day and smile at the picturesque park across the street. Its walking paths and stone bridges are so romantic and charming with their old-fashioned black iron light posts and inviting ponds scattered throughout. Wellington is a suburb of Pineton. It's still well within the human zone but further away from where my parents live.

It's an up-and-coming district that once was deemed lush with thugs and crime a few decades ago. Now, it's hip and gives a younger vibe with chic nearby shops, restaurants and bars – that will make for easy commuting as I work at three local establishments. Not only that, I've fallen head over heels in love with the area. The homes are all older and unique, nothing newer than a century or so. That was another plus, for me at least – and, of course, the price.

If you had asked me to move, let alone work here, six months ago, I would have laughed. No way. I would have been scared shitless for several reasons, but something has changed within me – or snapped. I'm unsure, but I felt drawn to the area well before I stepped foot in it. It was as if it was a sign that this was where I needed to be. From the tall, slender window, I nod at the man who will now be my landlord in addition to being my closest friend.

"It's great! Thanks for the opportunity to sublet." The click of my high-heeled boots sliding across the dark, stained oak floors has me smiling. "You sure you're okay with me taking the main living quarters?" I question for the millionth time.

"Yeah! Of course. It's just sitting here while I'm away at school, Jane. I prefer to have someone housesitting and using the place instead of the pipes freezing over and bursting." I grin more as I look around the tiny, well-kept front room. Lanny has exquisite taste and has renovated his brownstone from top to bottom, including the in-law suite with a separate entrance – where he will stay when he's home. 

To be fair, the boy does come from money and was gifted this place as a graduating present, along with a robust budget to make it his own for when he returns from university. "If you're okay with me bugging your ass when I'm home visiting my folks and continuing our secret mission," he winks as I laugh with a smug grin. "Wouldn't want to upset the Alpha of the North. You are his Luna, and I, along with every other living soul, must cater to you—once it's announced, of course," Lanny goodheartedly teases as my grin waves.