Chapter 5 The fight ( Meral)

Maya felt a rush of anxiety and thrill coursing through her veins as the airport buzzed around her. She was now free to immerse herself in the world that lay ahead. The chaos of human voices echoed against her own racing thoughts, yet everything felt strangely serene in that moment of freedom. She took a deep breath, savoring the blend of excitement and trepidation that accompanied embarking on her European adventure.

As she explored the bustling airport, she marveled at the array of shops selling everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion. Her mind danced between plans where to go first in Paris, how to navigate the different cultures, and, most importantly, what delicious food she would try. In her eagerness, she subconsciously tightened her grip around the warm cup of coffee she had purchased. As she shifted her focus from a display of travel mugs to a nearby café, she collided with another passenger in the busy terminal.

"Oh! I'm so sorry!" she exclaimed, heart racing as she instinctively pulled back, narrowly avoiding a catastrophic spill onto the stranger. The woman had agile reflexes; she swirled away, her dark hair catching the light, framing her striking face.

"No harm done!" the woman laughed lightly, brushing off the incident as if it were nothing. "Although I might have to rethink my location next time I see someone juggling coffee." Her voice was rich and warm, immediately putting Maya at ease.

Maya's gaze flickered to the woman's attire a casual but chic ensemble that hinted at a confident spirit. She noticed the subtle glow to her skin and the glint in her eyes; the all-too-familiar aura that suggested this woman was no ordinary traveler. Recognition flashed in Maya's mind: she could easily tell that this woman was a werewolf.

"I'm Maya," she said, extending a hand in friendly greeting. "I didn't mean to almost shower you with my drink!"

"Lia," the woman replied, shaking her hand with a firm grip. "And really, it wouldn't have been the first time I've been doused in coffee. But let's avoid it happening again!" They both chuckled, and in that moment, any residual awkwardness faded into a shared understanding.

As they chatted, Maya shared her excitement about her trip to Germany, detailing her travel plans, the cities she hoped to visit, and her enthusiasm for discovering new culinary delights. Lia listened intently, her interest piqued by Maya's passion. "You have quite the itinerary! Germany has some incredible hidden gems, especially when it comes to food. You'll have to try the schnitzel in Munich and the pretzels in Nuremberg," Lia advised, her eyes sparkling with memories of past travels.

"I can't wait!" Maya replied, her eyes lighting up. "I've always wanted to experience the Christmas markets there. The atmosphere seems so magical. Plus, I'm hoping to find a good bike rental to explore the countryside."

Lia raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "A fellow adventurer! I love that spirit. You know, if you ever make it to Switzerland, I'd love to show you around my pack's territory. The landscapes are breathtaking, and we could explore some hidden local spots you might not find in travel guides."

Maya felt a flutter of warmth at the invitation. "That would be amazing! I've heard so much about the Swiss mountains and the culture of the packs there. It's good to know I have a friend if I make it that way."

"Definitely!" Lia grinned, her enthusiasm infectious. "And I promise not to let you go without trying some authentic Swiss cheese and chocolate. It's a culinary experience like no other."

They continued to chat, exchanging stories about their lives, the challenges of their respective journeys, and the joys of being part of such a unique community. Lia spoke fondly of her pack in Switzerland, describing the bonds forged over shared experiences and adventures in nature.

Maya was captivated, feeling an unexpected sense of connection with Lia. It was refreshing to meet someone who shared her love for travel and adventure, especially someone from a more mystical world. "What has been your favorite travel experience so far?" Maya asked, genuinely curious.

"Oh, that's a tough question," Lia pondered, tapping her chin playfully. "But I think it would have to be the time I traveled to the Scandinavian regions during the summer solstice. Being out in nature, feeling the energy of the land, and celebrating under the midnight sun with my pack-it was something truly magical."

Maya could see the glow of nostalgia in Lia's eyes, and it made her eager to start creating her own magical memories. "I want to create moments like that while I'm in Europe. It's not just about the places, but the experiences that make it unforgettable."

As they continued to talk, the conversation flowed effortlessly, creating a bond that felt almost instantaneous. They exchanged stories of their favorite cities, the best travel hacks, and even the quirks of dealing with human and supernatural locals alike.

"You know," Lia mused, leaning forward with a conspiratorial grin, "one of the best parts about traveling as a werewolf is the incredible access we get to nature. There's nothing like running free under the moonlight in some of the most beautiful places."

Maya's eyes widened with intrigue. "Running under the moonlight sounds enchanting! I've always wondered what it would feel like to be so at one with nature."

"It truly is, especially when you can let go of human pretenses and feel the true essence of the earth. You might not be able to literally run with the wolves, but you can certainly find peace in nature's embrace on your trip. The forests in Germany are stunning; consider spending a night camping out just to connect with the wild."

A smile crept onto Maya's lips. "Camping sounds wonderful. I'd love to do that! I've never camped in Europe before, but I think a night under the stars, away from the city lights, would be perfect after all the sightseeing."

"Absolutely! I know a few spectacular spots you could check out. A friend of mine in Germany even leads tours through the forests, teaching about their history and the wildlife. I can connect you with her if you'd like." Lia quickly pulled out her phone and began typing.

"Wow, that would be incredible! Thank you so much!" Maya felt grateful for the connection. The idea of meeting someone local who could provide guidance and insight made the prospect of her trip even more exciting.

After bidding her new friend goodbye, Maya sighed heavily, glancing at the time on her phone. It was getting late, and a creeping unease began to settle in the pit of her stomach. She wandered over to the large airport windows and looked out at the increasingly ominous sky. Dark storm clouds were rolling in, heavy and foreboding, casting shadows over the tarmac. The air seemed charged with tension as she could almost feel the weight of the impending storm in her bones. Watching the clouds turn from dark grey to an inky black, Dread coiled within her like a serpentine threat, tightening with each passing moment.

Then it happened. A sudden boom of thunder resonated through the airport like a warning bell, cutting through the ambient noise of bustling travelers and rolling luggage. Almost immediately, an announcement crackled through the loudspeakers, sharp and jarring against the backdrop of murmuring passengers. "Attention all travelers: due to severe weather, all international flights have been delayed until further notice." The words landed like a lead weight in Maya's stomach, and she felt heat rising to her cheeks, not from embarrassment but from an inexplicable frustration that threatened to boil over.

Murmurs of disappointment and frustration rippled through the crowd as people began gathering their things, shuffling toward the exits or calling up loved ones to share the news. Maya stood paralyzed, her heart sinking further into despair. Part of her wanted to reach out to her dad, to hear his reassuring voice, but another part a stubborn, defiant part clung to hope that somehow, the storm would abate, and the skies would clear before her flight could take off. She waited, her eyes fixated on the darkening clouds, as if willing them to dissipate through sheer force of will. Thirty minutes passed, then an hour, gnawing at every glimmer of hope she had left.

When she finally conceded that the storm was here to stay, she found herself sitting in the back seat of her dad's car, deli sandwiches in hand, but with a gloomy disposition that no amount of comfort food could remedy. Her father's attempts to lighten her mood with stories from his own turbulent travel history were met with silence. The rain poured down outside, matching the dismal haze that clouded her heart.

The next morning felt like an echo of the previous day's disappointments had moldered into something tangible. Maya woke up feeling like a ghost drifting through the halls of her own home. A foul mood enveloped her, clinging to her as she made her way to the kitchen, searching for something to alleviate the dull ache of disappointment that had settled deep within her.

As she entered the kitchen, the enticing aroma of something delicious wafted through the air, a stark contrast to her sullen demeanor. There stood her sister, Meral, skillfully stirring a pot on the stove, her concentration evident in the way she focused on the task at hand. For a moment, Maya considered asking for a bite, but the thought of breaking the ice felt insurmountable. Their relationship had always been a minefield, and with her mood already teetering on the edge, she didn't want to risk igniting another confrontation.

Cereal felt like the safest option, but it wasn't appetizing. As Maya stood there absentmindedly arranging the bowls, the silence between them grew heavy. It was interrupted by Meral's voice, laced with genuine offer yet tinged with exasperation. "Hey, do you want some of this? It smells good, right?"

"No thanks," Maya muttered, her voice barely above a whisper, not wanting to meet her sister's gaze.

Meral, perceptive as always, sighed sharply, knowing exactly why Maya refused. "You know, it wouldn't kill you to accept help once in a while. You can't just live on cereal," she said, rolling her eyes as she stirred. That was all it took. In seconds, Maya's simmering annoyance bubbled over. "You know what, Meral? Maybe if you didn't constantly belittle me for not being a culinary genius, I would actually be more comfortable asking for help!"

Meral turned to her, her expression a mix of surprise and defensiveness. "I am just trying to help you! Someone has to teach you how to take care of yourself. You're not a child anymore!"

Maya's frustration exploded. "And you think reminding me of my cooking skills every chance you get is helping? Perhaps you enjoy putting me down!"

One thing led to another, and before they knew it, the argument escalated further, leading to a volley of hurtful words being exchanged. In a whirlwind of emotion, driven by frustration and anger, Meral's hand connected with Maya's cheek a sharp, unexpected slap that took both of them by surprise. The room fell silent, the weight of the slap hanging in the air like a dense fog. Maya's breath hitched in her throat, a mix of shock and disbelief coursing through her. Meral's eyes widened in horror, as if she had just realized the gravity of her actions.

"Maya, I..I'm so sorry!" Meral stammered, her voice trembling. She reached out to touch Maya's arm, but Maya stepped back, feeling a torrent of emotions rise within her pain, anger, and an overwhelming sense of betrayal.

"No," Maya said, her voice steadier than she felt. "You don't get to take that back. You can't just slap me because you're frustrated!"

Meral's face crumpled, tears brimming in her eyes. "I messed up, okay? I didn't mean to! I just everything has felt so heavy, and I didn't know how to cope. I'm sorry!"

Maya shook her head, feeling her own tears threaten to spill. "So, you think taking it out on me is the answer? I thought you were supposed to be my sister. My support."

The tension in the room felt palpable, the air thick with unresolved emotions. Meral, still struggling to hold back her tears, looked small and vulnerable as she took a step back, realizing the weight of what had just happened.

Meral's voice trembled as she tried to reach out to Maya, her heart heavy with regret. "Maya, I'm so" But before she could even finish her sentence, Maya had stormed out of the kitchen, her frustration palpable. The sound of the bedroom door slamming shut followed by the unmistakable click of the lock echoed in Meral's chest like a painful drum.

"Maya!" Meral called after her, desperation clawing at her throat. "Please, let me explain!" But her pleas fell on deaf ears; Maya was already too wrapped up in her own tumultuous feelings to hear her sister's apology. Meral's heart sank as she stood in the kitchen, the weight of their argument crashing down on her. A tight knot formed in her stomach, leaving her feeling hollow.

Maya, on the other hand, was already pulling herself together. She needed to escape the suffocating atmosphere of the house and the remnants of the fight with Meral. Swiftly, she changed out of her casual clothes into something more comfortable, grabbed her phone, and hopped down from the balcony of her room into the backyard. With every step, she focused on her escape, dialing Delbee's number as she made her way toward her friend's house.

"Hey, Maya!" Delbee's cheerful voice greeted her over the phone, unaware of the internal storm brewing within her best friend. "I heard about your flight delay. You okay?"

"Yeah, just... I need to get out, Del. Can I come over?" Maya replied, her voice flat as she trudged along.

"Of course! I'll see you soon," Delbee responded, not sensing the underlying heaviness of Maya's tone.

Upon arriving, Maya joined Delbee and her mom at the kitchen table. They began their morning with ritual prayers of gratitude to the moon goddess, a practice they cherished. But Maya's mind was a million miles away; all she could think about was her sister's anger and the bitterness from their fight. Delbee noticed her distraction but chalked it up to the stress of travel.

As they dug into brunch, the warm, inviting smells of pancakes and fresh fruit surrounded them. Delbee and her mom chatted amiably about their plans for the day, but Maya barely touched her food. Instead, she found solace in her phone, mindlessly scrolling through messages and social media posts. It wasn't until they started to clear the dishes that Delbee's mom turned to her with a bright smile and asked, "So, Maya, have you decided what you're wearing to the masked ball tonight?"

Maya's heart dropped as a wave of realization hit her like a cold splash of water. The ball! She had completely forgotten about it. Panic set in for a moment as her thoughts raced back to her original plans. "I... I wasn't planning to go," she stammered, her voice low as she dumped the last of the dishes into the dishwasher. "I thought I'd stay home and rest up before my flight tomorrow."

Delbee's mom, however, was quick to interject. "Oh, sweetie, that's not an option," she replied, her tone gentle yet firm. "Attendance is mandatory for all unmated female wolves over the age of 17. Plus," she continued, her eyes twinkling with enthusiasm, "it's an amazing opportunity to meet potential mates!"

Maya half-heartedly smiled, masking her growing dread. The last thing she needed right now was another event filled with pressure and unwelcome expectations. The thought of spending the evening surrounded by fluttering dresses and the excited chatter of other girls only served to deepen her sense of foreboding.

Delbee, sensing her friend's discomfort, leaned in closer and whispered, "We can make it fun! Let's turn it into a girls' night! We'll dress you up, dance a little, and before you know it, you might actually enjoy yourself."

Maya forced a chuckle but couldn't shake her mood; the prospect of getting ready and having to smile and engage with others made her internally cringe. "Great, just what I need a forced evening of boredom."

Delbee's mom chuckled. "I know you young adults think of it as torture, but trust me, you'll have stories to tell. Why don't we start looking for a dress now? It might lift your spirits!"

Resigned to the fact that she'd have to go, Maya sighed. "Yeah, we can do that," she replied, though her heart wasn't fully in it.

As they headed to the mall later, Maya could feel the tensions of the morning still lurking in her mind. With every turn down unfamiliar aisles and every bright dress she glanced at, her spirits sank further. Delbee, however, moved like a whirlwind, pulling out vibrant gowns and slinky options, holding them up with excitement. "This one would look amazing on you!" she exclaimed, draping a deep emerald dress over Maya's shoulders. "The color would really bring out those gorgeous eyes of yours!"

Maya offered a weak smile, but deep down, all she could think about was her argument with Meral. She absentmindedly pressed her fingers against the fabric, feeling its smoothness, but her mind was elsewhere. Every time she tried to focus on the shopping, the image of her sister's frustrated face surfaced, along with the words they'd exchanged.

Delbee noticed her distraction and took a step closer. "Hey, why don't we get some ice cream after?" she suggested, trying to lighten the mood. "A sweet treat could make this day better!"

Maya nodded slowly, "Yeah, maybe." The prospect of ice cream was enticing, and she realized that, despite everything, Delbee was really trying to help. They continued shopping, with Delbee leading the charge, but it felt like Maya was running on autopilot, half-heartedly trying on dresses and making small talk.

Eventually, they settled on a gorgeous royal blue gown that seemed to shine under the changing room lights, its form-fitting silhouette made Maya feel just a touch more confident. "See?" Delbee grinned, holding up a pair of matching heels. "This is going to be perfect!"

After making their purchases, they swung by the ice cream shop. As they sat outside, cones in hand and laughter spilling easily into the crisp evening air, Maya momentarily forgot her worries. The simple joy of indulging in a creamy scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough brought her back to life, and she found herself smiling genuinely if only for a fleeting moment.

"Maya, you know you can talk to me, right?" Delbee finally asked, her tone shifting to one of concern. "If something's bothering you, I'm here."

Maya's heart softened at her friend's words. Guilt washed over her for not opening up sooner. "It's just... I don't want to fight with Meral," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "We've always been close, and now... I feel like I don't know how to fix this."

Delbee nodded empathetically, taking a moment before responding. "It's okay to have disagreements, especially when you're both going through tough times. Maybe it's worth taking a step back and giving it some time? Sometimes, letting things breathe can be a good way to see the bigger picture."

Maya took a deep breath, considering Delbee's words. "You're right. I just hate that we can't seem to communicate without it turning into a fight. It's so frustrating."

"I get that," Delbee replied, nodding. "But you love each other, and that counts for a lot. You could try writing her a letter or something, you know? Sometimes saying things on paper can help clarify your feelings, and it takes the pressure off an immediate response."

"I've never thought about that," Maya mused, her mind racing with possibilities. A letter seemed like a safe way to express her feelings without the risk of the situation escalating again. "That might actually help."

Delbee's face brightened. "See? Solutions are all around! And hey, once the ball is over, you can figure things out without the added stress. In the meantime, let's just enjoy tonight! What do you say? After all, you look stunning in that dress!"

Maya felt her pulse quicken at the prospect of the ball. Maybe Delbee was right perhaps she could find a shred of enjoyment in the evening. "Alright, I'll give it a try," she said, feeling a little lighter. "Let's make it a fun night!"

They finished their ice cream, and as they walked back to Delbee's house, Maya felt a sense of camaraderie settling over her. The lingering tension of the day wasn't entirely gone, but talking with Delbee helped alleviate some of her anxiety.

Later that evening, they transformed into a whirlwind of hairbrushes, makeup palettes, and laughter as they got ready for the ball. Delbee had her phone blasting upbeat music, which lifted Maya's spirits more than she had thought possible. As they completed their looks Maya's hair cascading in soft waves around her shoulders and Delbee applying a touch of glittery eyeshadow she felt a flicker of excitement.