Chapter 4 Fated

Jackson

"It's crucial we maintain our secrecy. We cannot afford to expose ourselves to the human world. Our existence is a secret we must protect at all costs. We're stronger together, but we must be mindful of the impact our actions have on Hoth our kind and humans." I said as I addressed my pack, I was the alpha of the Gemstone pack. Werewolves were not allowed to live among humans because they were scared of what could happen. But, lately I've been going to the sea in search of a certain human, Amber. Because I was the Alpha, it was okay for me to go out often. I had gone out for one of my frequent walks to the sea, and that's when I saw Amber, seated at the seashore, staring absentmindedly to the sea. She was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen, I froze and forgot to exhale as her dark hair swayed alongside the wind creating a perfect picturesque. She moved her gaze to me and locked eyes, until I saw her hazel eyes widen, then crinkle at the corners. Before I knew what was happening, my legs already weaved their way towards her. It was difficult for me to cope without seeing her for days, and when I finally did, I couldn't stop myself so I kissed her, was that why she fled from me? But... she kissed me back, didn't she? I couldn't think straight, my mind went a thousand miles per hour thinking about the reasons why she left me. "Hey man," my friend, Josh and also my beta called out, interrupting my chain of thoughts. I chuckled at his choice of words, he was the only person allowed to regard me with formalities on occasions like this. "You seem lost in thoughts, what's wrong?" I sighed contemplating on whether to tell him or not. He was a trusted friend but I was still not used to letting people know my emotions. I sighed deeply, my gaze lingering on the luminous moon hanging in the star-studded sky. I spoke softly, my words laced with a mixture of resignation and longing. "Josh, do you ever wish for a life without this burden?" I heard Josh inhale deeply as I continued, "Sometimes, I feel like I'm fighting a war against myself, against instincts that I can't control." Josh, a seasoned member of the pack, sat beside me, offering a reassuring nod. "I get it, Jackson. We all do. It's the endless struggle between our human side and the primal nature we carry. But you're a natural leader, Jackson. You carry this weight for all of us. It's not easy, but it's who we are." I furrowed my brow. "I never wanted this life, you know? Being a werewolf comes with its powers, but it also brings its share of challenges. The constant battle between my human self and the wolf within is exhausting. I... I just wish I could lead a normal life, without the constant fear of losing control." My voice trembled with a touch of fear. Josh placed a comforting hand on my massive shoulder. "You're stronger than you think, Alpha,. The key is to embrace both sides. Acceptance is the first step in finding balance. You're not alone in this; we're all here for you." I nodded, my eyes reflecting a blend of gratitude and uncertainty. "Thanks, Josh. I'll try. It's just overwhelming sometimes, feeling like I have two separate lives fighting within me." Josh offered a reassuring smile. "Take it one moon at a time. You'll find your way. Remember, even the strongest of wolves need their pack." The gentle echoe of rustle of leaves in the forest was the only sound heard, as the moon cast its silvery glow. My mind drifted from my turmoil to the kiss I shared with Amber. **** I went back to the sea in hopes of finding Amber and I did. I found her on the shore, tears streaming down her face, her fragile form silhouetted against the horizon. Instinctively, I rushed to her side, concern evident on my face. A protective part of me surfacing."Amber, what happened? Why are you crying?" As I touched her shoulder, her reaction caught me off guard. She recoiled as though I were something dreadful, her eyes wide with fear. Her rejection stung me to the core. Stay away from me," she pleaded, her voice trembling. Confusion and alarm mingled in my mind. "But why? What's wrong?" Her voice quivered as she spoke, "How could you deceive me about who you truly are?" Her words felt like an avalanche crashing down upon me. I struggled to grasp the situation. "What do you mean?" "You're a werewolf," she accused, her tone a mix of shock and distress. I was left speechless, the gravity of her accusation hanging heavy in the air. It was a revelation I never intended to share, especially not in this sudden, alarming manner. The truth of my nature had been laid bare before her, and I didn't know how to navigate this unexpected turn of events.