Complicated

Janet stood on the rooftop of her apartment building, staring at the city skyline in the distance. The cool breeze brushed against her face, carrying with it the scent of pine and damp earth. It was the end of summer, and the leaves were beginning to turn from green to golden yellow, signaling the arrival of fall. She had always loved this time of year-the crisp air, the colors, the sense of change. But this year was different.

This year, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was about to happen, something big.She took a deep breath and closed her eyes, letting the wind ruffle her hair. When she opened them again, she saw a figure standing at the door that led to the stairs."Hey," Derek said, stepping onto the rooftop. "What are you doing up here?"Janet turned to face him and smiled. "Just thinking. You know me."Derek walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Yeah, I do. And I know you've been thinking a lot lately. Is everything okay?"Janet leaned into his embrace and sighed. "I don't know, Der. I just have this feeling that something's coming. Something that's going to change everything."Derek pulled away and looked at her with concern in his eyes. "What kind of change?""I don't know," Janet said, shaking her head. "It's just a feeling. Like something's brewing, you know?"Derek nodded, understanding. "Well, whatever it is, we'll face it together. You and me and the kids."Janet smiled, grateful for his words. "Yeah, you're right. We'll face it together."They stood there for a few moments, enjoying each other's company and the view. But Janet's thoughts kept drifting back to the past, to the pack she had left behind and the man who had broken her heart.Oliver.She hadn't seen or spoken to him in years, not since the night he had chosen Luna as his fated mate. The memory still stung, even after all this time. She had loved him for as long as she could remember, but he had never seen her as anything more than a friend. And then, that one night, they had given in to their desires, and she had thought that maybe, just maybe, he felt the same way. But it had been a mistake. A one-time thing. And then Luna had come along, and he had chosen her, leaving Janet with a broken heart and a shattered dream.But that was all in the past. Janet had moved on. She had her career, her children, and Derek. She was happy, content. She didn't need Oliver or the pack. They were just memories.Or so she thought.Oliver sat in his study, poring over the pack's finances. It was a tedious task, but someone had to do it, and as the Alpha, it fell to him. He had just finished going over the budget for the upcoming month when his cell phone rang. He didn't recognize the number, but he answered anyway."Hello?""Oliver?" a female voice said on the other end."Yes, who's this?""It's Janet."Oliver's heart skipped a beat at the sound of her voice. It had been years since he had heard it, but he would recognize it anywhere. "Janet? Is everything okay?""I'm not sure," Janet said, her voice trembling. "But I think you might need my help."Oliver frowned. "What do you mean?""It's a long story," Janet said, sighing. "Can we meet? In person?"Janet felt her heart race at the thought of seeing Oliver again after all these years. A part of her wanted to say reject, to see if there was still a chance for them, but the logical part of her brain reminded her of all the pain and heartache he had caused her in the past."I don't think that's a good idea, Oliver," Janet finally replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "We both have moved on with our lives, and I'm happy where I am.""I understand, but I need to speak with you about something important," Oliver persisted.Janet sighed, knowing that Oliver could be very persuasive when he wanted to be. "Okay, but not in the pack's territory. Let's meet at a neutral location."Oliver agreed, and they set a time and place to meet the following day. Janet spent the rest of the evening trying to prepare herself mentally for the meeting, wondering what it was that Oliver needed to tell her.The next day, Janet arrived at the café early and ordered a latte. She chose a table at the back of the café, where she could observe the entrance and exit. She had no idea what to expect, and the uncertainty made her anxious.As she sipped her coffee, she saw Oliver walk in. He looked as handsome as ever, with his tall frame, broad shoulders, and chiseled features. He scanned the room, and his eyes finally met hers. Janet couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia at the sight of him.Oliver walked over to her table and took a seat across from her. "Thank you for meeting me, Janet," he said.Janet nodded, feeling a knot form in her stomach. "What did you want to talk to me about, Oliver?" she asked.Oliver took a deep breath and looked at her intently. "It's about my father. He's very ill, and I need your help as a doctor."Janet felt her heart sink. She knew that Oliver's father was the Alpha of their pack and that he had always been kind to her. "What can I do to help?" she asked."I need you to come back to the pack and take care of him. He trusts you, and I trust you," Oliver said, his gaze never leaving hers.Janet shook her head. "I can't go back, Oliver. I left for a reason, and I'm happy where I am now."Oliver reached across the table and took her hand. Janet felt a jolt of electricity shoot through her at his touch. "Please, Janet. I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important," he pleaded.Janet looked into his eyes and saw the sincerity in them. She knew that she couldn't ignore his request, especially if it meant helping someone in need. "Okay, I'll come back," she finally relented.Oliver's face lit up with relief, and he squeezed her hand. "Thank you, Janet. I knew I could count on you."Janet pulled her hand away, feeling the familiar ache in her heart. "I'll come back, but only to take care of your father. After that, I'm leaving again."Oliver nodded, his expression serious. "I understand. Thank you again, Janet." Seeing Oliver again had brought back memories and feelings that she thought she had buried long ago. She didn't know what the future held, but she knew that it was going to be complicated.Janet felt a pang of sympathy for Oliver at the news of his father's illness. Despite everything that had happened between them, she couldn't ignore his request for help."I'm sorry to hear that, Oliver," she said, reaching across the table to touch his hand. "Of course, I'll help in any way I can."Oliver nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Janet. You don't know how much this means to me."They sat in silence for a few moments, neither of them knowing what to say. The tension between them was palpable, and Janet wondered if it would ever go away."How have you been, Janet?" Oliver asked, breaking the silence.Janet took a sip of her coffee, trying to think of an answer. "I've been good, busy with work and the kids," she said finally. "What about you?""I've been busy with pack business," Oliver said, shrugging. "You know how it is."Janet nodded, not wanting to dwell on the past. "So, what's wrong with your father?"Oliver sighed. "He's been having these episodes, where he collapses and can't breathe. The doctors can't seem to figure out what's wrong with him. I thought maybe you could take a look at him and see if you can diagnose him."Janet nodded. "Of course. When would you like me to come?""How about tomorrow morning?" Oliver suggested.Janet checked her schedule on her phone. "I have a few patients in the morning, but I can come by around noon."Oliver nodded. "That works for me. I'll have someone pick you up and bring you to the pack house."Janet hesitated. "I don't know, Oliver. I don't think it's a good idea for me to be on pack territory.""I understand your concerns, but it's the only place where my father feels comfortable," Oliver said, pleading with her. "Please, Janet. I wouldn't ask if it wasn't important."Janet sighed, knowing that Oliver was right. She couldn't let her past with the pack get in the way of helping someone in need. "Okay, I'll do it."Oliver smiled, relieved. "Thank you, Janet. I really appreciate it."They finished their coffee, and Oliver walked Janet to her car. As they stood there, Janet felt a strange mix of emotions-nostalgia, anger, sadness. She didn't know what to make of it all."Take care, Janet," Oliver said, leaning in to give her a hug.Janet hugged him back, feeling a rush of emotions as she breathed in his scent. "You too, Oliver."They parted ways, and Janet got into her car, feeling conflicted. She had promised to help Oliver, but she wasn't sure if she was ready to face her past.The next day, Janet drove to the pack house, feeling nervous. She had never been back to the pack since she left, and the memories were still fresh in her mind. She wondered if anyone would remember her, if they would hold a grudge against her for leaving.As she pulled up to the gate, a man in a pack uniform approached her car. "Dr. Evans?"Janet nodded. "Yes, that's me."The man opened the gate and gestured for her to follow him. Janet drove through the winding roads of the pack's territory, feeling a sense of familiarity. It was strange how a place could hold so many memories, both good and bad.They arrived at the pack house, and Janet was surprised at how much it had changed. The last time she had been there, it was a rainy day and the streets were empty. She walked past the shuttered storefronts and closed cafes, feeling the weight of her sadness pressing down on her. As she turned a corner, she saw a familiar face in the distance. It was her old friend from college, whom she hadn't seen in years.She quickened her pace, hoping to catch up to him before he disappeared around another corner. When she finally reached him, she called out his name. He turned and looked at her quizzically, as if trying to place her."It's me, Rachel," she said, feeling a lump form in her throat. "We went to college together."Recognition dawned in his eyes, and he smiled. "Rachel, of course! It's been so long. How have you been?"They chatted for a while, catching up on old times and reminiscing about their college days. Rachel found herself laughing and smiling for the first time in weeks. It felt good to connect with someone who knew her before she had become so lost in her own thoughts and worries.As they parted ways, Rachel felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, things were starting to look up for her. She resolved to try to stay connected with her old friend and to seek out other opportunities for connection and community in her life.

Janet's heart raced as she made her way towards the main Alpha palace. She had never been inside before, and the grandeur of it all left her awestruck. But her nervousness didn't stem from the architecture. Instead, it was the thought of seeing Oliver's father, Alpha James, who lay on his sick bed inside.When she finally reached his room, Janet's heart sank at the sight of him. He looked frail, his eyes barely open and his breaths coming in short gasps. She approached him slowly, unsure of what to say."Alpha James," she said softly, "it's Janet.

I've come to visit you."Alpha James stirred slightly and turned his head towards her. But his gaze was distant, and Janet realized with a pang of sadness that he didn't recognize her."It's me, Janet," she repeated, a little louder this time. "I'm here to take care of you."Suddenly, Alpha James' eyes cleared, and he focused on her with a clarity that made Janet's heart skip a beat."Janet!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with warmth. "I've missed you, my dear. Come closer."Janet moved closer to his bed, taking his hand in hers. She could feel the coolness of his skin, and her heart ached at the thought of losing him.Alpha James smiled at her, and the lines on his face seemed to soften. "You know, Janet," he said, his voice barely above a whisper, "I always thought of you as my own daughter. Oliver was always so fond of you, and I can see why."Janet felt her eyes fill with tears at his words. She had always felt a strong connection to Alpha James, and hearing him say that he considered her a part of his family only strengthened that bond."Thank you, Alpha James," she said, her voice shaking slightly. "It means a lot to me."Alpha James nodded, his eyes closing briefly. "I'm afraid my time is running out," he said, his voice barely audible now. "But I'm glad you're here with me. Will you stay and take care of me until the end?"Janet squeezed his hand, her heart breaking at the thought of losing him. "Of course, Alpha James," she said, her voice firm. "I'll stay with you till the very end."For the next few days, Janet stayed by Alpha James' side, tending to his every need. She could see the life slowly draining out of him, but she refused to let go. She talked to him, telling him stories of her life and reminiscing about the good times they had shared.Despite his weakened state, Alpha James remained lucid, and their conversations were filled with warmth and love. Janet could see that he was at peace, and it gave her comfort to know that she had been there for him in his final moments.On the day of his passing, Janet was with him till the very end. As his breaths became shallower, she held his hand, tears streaming down her face. And when he finally took his last breath, she knew that a part of her had gone with him.But even in his death, Alpha James had left behind a legacy of love and warmth. And Janet knew that she would always cherish the memories of their time together, no matter how short it had been.Oliver was devastated by the passing of his father, Alpha James. He felt like he had lost a part of himself, and the weight of the responsibility of being the new alpha weighed heavily on his shoulders. He spent most of his time in his room, mourning and trying to come to terms with his new reality.Janet was by his side, offering him comfort and support. She had lost her own father years ago, and she knew how hard it could be to cope with such a loss. She listened to him as he talked about his father, sharing stories and memories of their time together.One day, Oliver decided to leave his room and join the rest of the pack in the main hall. He knew he couldn't hide away forever, and he needed the support of his pack to help him get through this difficult time.As he entered the hall, he was greeted by the rest of the pack members. They all looked sad and solemn, each of them feeling the weight of their loss in their own way.Oliver took a seat at the head of the table, and the rest of the pack members followed suit. Janet sat beside him, her hand on his shoulder, offering him a silent reminder of her presence.For a while, the room was silent. No one spoke, each lost in their own thoughts and memories of Alpha James. Finally, one of the pack members, a burly werewolf named Marcus, spoke up."I remember the time Alpha James took us on that hunting trip," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "We were all so young then, but he treated us like adults. He taught us so much about hunting and tracking, but he also taught us about life. He taught us to respect nature, to be grateful for what we have, and to always look out for each other."There were nods of agreement around the table, and then another pack member spoke up."I remember the time Alpha James saved my life," said Sarah, a young werewolf with bright green eyes. "I was just a pup then, and I got separated from my mother during a hunt. I was lost and scared, and I thought I was going to die. But then Alpha James found me, and he took care of me. He didn't have to do that, but he did. And I will never forget it."The pack members continued to share their memories of Alpha James, each story more touching than the last. Oliver listened intently, tears streaming down his face as he heard how much his father had meant to his pack.Finally, Janet spoke up. "Alpha James was more than just a leader to this pack," she said, her voice soft but strong. "He was a friend, a mentor, and a father figure to all of us. He taught us how to be strong, how to be brave, and how to be loyal. And even though he is gone, his legacy lives on in all of us."There was a moment of silence, and then Marcus spoke again. "We will honor his memory," he said, his voice firm. "We will continue to uphold the values he taught us, and we will make him proud. That is the best way to honor him."The rest of the pack nodded in agreement, and Oliver wiped away his tears. He felt a sense of pride and gratitude for the pack members he led, and he knew that they would get through this difficult time together.As the meeting ended, the pack members hugged each other and offered their condolences to Oliver. He felt a sense of relief and hope, knowing that he had the support and love of his pack behind him. Together, they would honor the memory of Alpha James and continue to thrive as a pack. Later that night, the Alpha Pack members gathered together in the clearing outside the pack house. They were all somber and silent, still mourning the loss of their beloved Alpha, James. Oliver stood at the center of the group, his shoulders slumped and his eyes downcast."Alright, everyone," he said finally, breaking the heavy silence. "We need to start planning the burial for my father."There was a murmured agreement from the group, and they began to shuffle closer to Oliver."What kind of ceremony do you want to have?" asked one of the pack members."I want it to be big and memorable," Oliver replied firmly. "My father was an incredible leader, and he deserves a send-off that reflects that."Janet stepped forward and placed a hand on Oliver's arm. "We'll help you make it special," she said softly.Oliver looked at her, gratitude written all over his face. "Thank you, Janet. I couldn't do this without you."The group began to brainstorm ideas for the burial. They talked about music, decorations, and rituals that they could include. One pack member suggested a traditional howling ceremony, while another suggested a feast in honor of the late Alpha.Oliver listened intently to each suggestion, nodding his head thoughtfully. Finally, he spoke up. "I like all of these ideas," he said. "But I want to do something that's never been done before. Something that will truly honor my father's legacy."The group fell silent, waiting for Oliver to continue. He took a deep breath before speaking again. "I want to release a pack of doves during the ceremony. Each dove will represent a year of my father's life, and they'll all fly away together, symbolizing his journey to the afterlife."The group was stunned by Oliver's suggestion, but they all agreed that it was a beautiful and fitting tribute to the late Alpha.Over the next few days, the pack worked tirelessly to prepare for the burial. They set up a large tent in the clearing, decorated with flowers and colorful banners. They cooked a massive feast, with plenty of meat and vegetables to feed everyone in attendance.As the day of the burial arrived, the pack members gathered in the tent, dressed in their finest clothing. Janet stood at Oliver's side, offering him comfort and support.The ceremony began with a traditional howling ritual, each pack member adding their voice to the chorus. Then, Oliver stepped forward, holding a cage filled with the doves.He spoke briefly about his father's life and legacy, before opening the cage and letting the birds fly free. The doves soared into the sky, their wings beating in unison as they circled overhead.The pack members watched in awe as the birds disappeared into the clouds, their spirits lifting with the knowledge that their Alpha was now at peace.The feast that followed was lively and joyous, a celebration of James' life and legacy. Oliver smiled through his tears, grateful for the support of his pack members and for the memory of his father that would always be with him.

After the funeral, the atmosphere around the pack was solemn, everyone was still grieving for the loss of their beloved Alpha, James. The funeral had been a success and Oliver was pleased with how everything turned out. However, as much as he tried to remain strong and stoic, he knew deep down that he needed Janet by his side during this tough time.As they walked back to the Alpha's mansion, Oliver turned to Janet, his face solemn. "Please, stay with me for a few more days. I don't want to be alone," he pleaded, taking her hand gently in his.Janet felt a tug at her heartstrings.

She wanted to stay and be there for Oliver, but she knew she had to return home. "I'm sorry, Oliver. I can't stay any longer. I have to go back home," she replied, trying to keep her voice firm.Oliver's face fell, and he looked like a lost puppy. "Please, Janet, just a few more days. I can't do this alone," he begged.Janet knew she couldn't refuse Oliver, especially after everything he had been through in the past few days. "Okay, just a few more days," she agreed.Oliver's face lit up, and he hugged her tightly. "Thank you, Janet. I owe you one," he said, grateful for her kindness.As they entered the mansion, Janet's phone rang, and she saw Derek's name on the screen. She hesitated for a moment before answering, wondering if she should tell him about the funeral and the fact that she was staying a few more days."Hey, Derek," she answered, trying to sound cheerful."Hey, babe. Are you okay? Did you get to your friend's place safely?" Derek asked, concern lacing his voice."Yes, I'm fine. I got here safely," Janet replied, mentally kicking herself for not telling Derek about the funeral."When are you coming back home? I miss you," Derek said, his voice becoming softer.Janet sighed. She didn't want to upset Derek, but she knew she had to be honest with him. "Actually, I'm going to be staying a few more days," she said, bracing herself for his reaction."What? Why?" Derek asked, sounding confused.Janet took a deep breath, "It's a long story, Derek. My friend's father passed away, and I want to be there for her."Derek was silent for a few seconds before he spoke again, "Okay, I understand. Just be safe and come back to me soon, okay?"Janet smiled, "I will. I miss you too."After ending the call, Janet turned to Oliver, who was watching her intently. "Everything okay?" he asked, concern etched on his face.Janet nodded, "Yeah, just talking to Derek."Oliver nodded, understanding that she needed some time to herself. "Do you want to rest for a bit or maybe have some lunch?" he asked, gesturing towards the dining room.Janet shook her head, "No, I'm fine. Let's start planning for your father's memorial service."Oliver smiled weakly, grateful for Janet's support. "Thank you, Janet. I don't know what I'd do without you."Janet smiled back, "You don't have to worry about that, Oliver. I'm here for you."The two of them spent the next few hours planning for the memorial service, going through the guest list and the various arrangements that needed to be made. Janet was impressed by how organized and efficient Oliver was, despite everything he was going through.As the day drew to a close,Janet found herself torn between her desire to return home and the intense connection she felt with Oliver. She knew she had to make a decision soon, and her conversation with Derek only added to her confusion."Hey, babe," Derek's voice came through the phone. "I've been trying to call you for hours. Are you okay? When are you coming back?"Janet took a deep breath before responding. "I'm okay, Derek. I'm still at the Alpha's pack. I don't know when I'm coming back yet. I'll let you know soon."There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line. Janet could feel Derek's frustration through the phone."Janet, you've been gone for weeks. What's going on? Is everything alright?"Janet hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal to Derek. She knew he wouldn't understand the complexity of her situation with Oliver and his pack."I'm fine, Derek. I just...I need a little more time here," she finally said.Derek sighed heavily. "Alright, just be safe. Call me if you need anything, okay?""I will. I promise," Janet replied before ending the call.As she placed the phone back in her pocket, Oliver approached her with a hopeful look on his face. "So, what did he say?""He just wanted to check on me and know when I'll be back," Janet replied, trying to keep her tone neutral.Oliver's face fell slightly, but he didn't give up. "Please, Janet, stay a little longer. We need you here. I need you here."Janet's heart swelled at his words, but she couldn't ignore the reality of her life outside of the pack. "Oliver, as much as I'd like to stay, I have to go back. I have responsibilities and a life outside of this place."Oliver looked down at his feet, disappointment etched on his face. "I understand. I just wish things were different."Janet reached out and placed a hand on his arm, trying to reassure him. "Me too, Oliver. Me too."The two stood there in silence for a few moments, both lost in their own thoughts. Finally, Janet spoke up. "I should start packing. My flight leaves in a few hours."Oliver nodded, still not meeting her eyes. "I'll help you."Together, they walked back to Janet's room and began packing her things. Janet tried to focus on the task at hand, but her mind kept wandering to Oliver and the pack. As they finished up, Oliver took her hand and looked deeply into her eyes."Janet, I know we haven't seen each other for long, but I feel like we have a connection that goes beyond time. I don't want to lose that. Please promise me that you'll come back soon."Janet's heart swelled with emotion, and she found herself wanting to stay even more. But she knew she couldn't. "I promise, Oliver. I'll come back as soon as I can."Oliver nodded, a small smile gracing his lips. "Thank you. That's all I needed to hear."They hugged goodbye, and Janet left the pack feeling a mix of sadness and excitement. As she boarded her flight, she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her and Oliver. But for now, she was content with the memories she had made and the promise to return soon.When she got back home,Janet was thrilled to see her kids again. She hugged them tightly, feeling their warmth and hearing their laughter. They were her pride and joy, and she missed them terribly while she was away."Mommy! Mommy!" her youngest daughter, Abby, shouted as she ran to Janet.Janet knelt down to Abby's level and gave her a tight hug. "I missed you so much, sweetie," she said."I missed you too, Mommy," Abby replied with a smile.Janet's son, Tyler, came over and hugged her too. "Welcome back, Mom," he said."Thanks, Tyler," Janet replied. She felt a sense of relief wash over her now that she was back home with her family.As Janet settled back into her routine, she couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt that lingered inside her. She knew she had promised Derek she'd be back in a few days, but she ended up staying longer with Oliver and the pack. She didn't want to lie to Derek, so she decided to tell him the truth.A few hours later, Derek walked in the door. Janet could tell from the look on his face that he was upset. She took a deep breath and walked over to him."I'm sorry, Derek," Janet said. "I know I promised to be back in a few days, but I stayed longer with Oliver and the pack."Derek's face softened. "Why didn't you call me?" he asked."I was going to, but Oliver convinced me to stay a little longer," Janet explained.Derek sighed. "Well, at least you're back now," he said. "I was worried about you.""I'm sorry, I didn't mean to worry you," Janet said. "But I had to stay. Oliver needed me."Derek looked at her with a mix of frustration and understanding. "I know, Janet," he said. "But you have to understand that I worry about you. You're my girlfriend, and I love you. I just want you to be safe."Janet nodded. "I know, and I appreciate that," she said. "I'll try to be more careful next time."Derek wrapped his arms around her and hugged her tightly. "I'm just glad you're home," he said.Janet smiled and hugged him back. She was grateful for his understanding and support. She knew she had a lot of catching up to do, but for now, she was just happy to be back home with her family.