Human mate

On a warm August day, he sat across from me on the picnic blanket, talking about his latest job at the local diner. I was completely zoned out, all I could think about was how his toned muscles flexed every time he raised his hand while explaining each event, a habit he doesn't seem to know how to stop.

My boyfriend was the most beautiful man in town. He had this gorgeous blonde hair that reached his shoulders with the most captivating green eyes. I always got bullied by other girls for not being up to his standards, I'm defined as your average girl by most.

"Are you listening?" Orion asked, startling me back into the present. I quickly smiled at him and nodded my head.

"Then what are you so quiet for?" Orion questioned further. "Did something happen at home? You've been quiet today," he stated, looking at me with furrowed eyebrows. He started deep into my soul awaiting an answer. I knew I had to answer him or he wouldn't let it go.

Well, here goes nothing.... "There's something I want to talk about.... I got admitted to the university." I said sighing, Orion brightened up, and he quickly tackled me to the ground with a rib-crushing hug. Happily, he kissed me all over, on the cheeks, nose, lips, neck... even on my temples.

"You should have said so earlier, we could have gone somewhere else to celebrate....." his expression quickly changed when he noticed I wasn't as bubbly and happy as he was.

"What's wrong Tanya? Are you sad because you'll be busy now? We could always meet during the weekends, plus it's just a 30-minute bus drive from Fayette to the University of Kentucky. It's a trip we can make in a day, don't be sad, love." Orion said trying to make me feel better.

"That's the thing, babe, it's not the UK. It's Mystique University, a school in shadowclaw. It's out of town and a 6-hour drive." I told Orion, sounding all sad and deflated.

"What do you mean ShadowClaw? What is even that? Why there? What happened to the UK? You can't just move somewhere far away just for school? You should reject the admission, and stay at home another year." he said matter of factly, leaving no room for argument.

He looked so angry right now, I had never seen Orion this angry before. I almost cried as I said, "The UK denied me admission, again. Mystique University was the only school to offer me one. I tried convincing my parents for me to stay home an extra year but they didn't take it lightly. I'm already 20 years old, Orion. I'm getting older, the world won't wait for me".

Orion looked at me with disgust in his eyes, he was so red with anger that you could almost see the fumes coming out of his ears. After seconds of sitting there staring at me in utter disgust, he sighed. It seemed he concluded.... "You have to choose between me or this school in some unknown state," he said with so much seriousness that I was left speechless.

"You can't possibly be expecting me to choose," I said all flustered and shocked. "I am sure you heard me correctly Tanya, do not make me repeat myself." and there it was, Orion was serious.

I stared at him without saying anything, thinking if I stared at him long enough he'd realize how stupid his statement was. But what Orion said next drove me to the point of tears... "If you decide to go to Mystique University, consider this relationship over".

I gasped, "You can't be serious Orion, you want to break up with me because I finally decided to pursue a degree? The one dream you've been claiming to be so supportive of?" I accused in a shocked voice.

"Oh please, stop trying to blow things out of proportion. Make your choice and let's get this over with", I started crying at his words. He didn't even flinch once at my reaction. Orion has become ice cold, he's staring at me like I'm dirt under his shoes, not someone he claims to love.

I made up my mind... "I choose my dreams Orion", this decision broke me but I had to do what was best for me whether he liked it or not.

Orion stood up, gathered his things, and spat beside my feet. "Filthy whore, I should have never dated you. Go to this ShadowClaw place, have the time of your life and never contact me again". And that was it, he left me there speechless and crying. People walked by staring at me with sad looks in their eyes. It was obvious that I had just been dumped. If the two half-empty plates of food and glasses of juice were not enough of an indication, then the loud manner in which Orion shouted his insults must have been proof enough.

I sat there on the blanket for one more hour, crying ugly fat tears. After an hour, I stood up and began walking around the park aimlessly. This went on for 2 more hours, then I found myself in front of the lake. I decided to drown myself. After all, the one person I loved with all my heart doesn't want me anymore. I should stop living. I walked into the lake, going further and further until my head was under the water. I let go and allowed myself to drift into the unknown. Suddenly, I felt a hand wrap around me and pull me out. I started coughing profusely as I struggled to get some air back into my lungs.

"Are you crazy? Why would you do that? Tanya Lexie Reynolds, is this what we taught you? You decide to die horribly and leave your mother and me feeling like failures?" my dad said, sounding angry, hurt, and confused at the same time.

I started crying uncontrollably, letting my tears stream down my face in a rush... "I'm sorry Dad, I don't know what came over me... I'm so sorry".

"Oh, baby girl. Shhhh, it's okay. Daddy's here now. It's all going to be fine. Don't cry, Daddy's got you" my dad whispered to me as he hugged me tightly. We sat there by the bank of the lake, while my dad rocked me in his embrace back and forth.

We sat there for 10 minutes before Dad pulled back and stared at me... "would you tell me what happened Tanya? This isn't you." Dad said, looking at me skeptically.

"Orion broke up with me," I said in a quiet and timid voice. I was shivering, I hadn't even realized how cold I was until Dad wrapped me up in his jacket.

"That piece of shit!! He isn't worth it Tanya, one day you'll find someone who loves you and you'll realize how much of a douche this Orion boy is", Dad said in a firm but reassuring tone... "for now, let's take you back home and keep this little mishap from mom.... Wouldn't want her catching a fright, would we?" I shook my head no and stood up with Dad as he led me back to his car.

We drove back home in silence. My head was filled with loads of crumbling memories from my relationship with Orion. I didn't even notice we were home until Dad parked the car in the garage.

In the days leading up to the move, my frustration bubbled beneath the surface. "I can't believe you're making me leave everything behind!" I exclaimed to my parents.

Mom tried to soothe me, "Sweetie, it's a great opportunity. New school, new friends-it's a chance for a fresh start."

I crossed my arms, "Fresh start? More like starting from scratch. I finally had a group of friends, and now I have to rebuild everything."

Dad chimed in, "Change is part of life, Tanya. You're not leaving your memories behind; you're making room for new ones."

I sighed, "I don't want new memories; I want my old ones. Why can't things just stay the same?"

Mom hugged me, "We understand it's hard, but change brings growth. You'll see, Shadowclaw might surprise you."

I remained unconvinced, muttering under my breath, "I doubt it."

As moving day approached, I reluctantly packed up my room, holding onto the familiarity of my old life.

I sat in my room, surrounded by moving boxes and a heavy heart. The news of my impending move to Shadowclaw had hit me like a ton of bricks. I couldn't help but feel a deep sadness welling up inside me. Shadowclaw was a new city, a new school, and a new life that I wasn't ready for.

As I stared out the window, lost in my thoughts, my parents barged into my room with determined expressions on their faces. Mom sighed, "Tanya, we've talked about this. Moving to Shadowclaw will be a fresh start for you."

Looking down, my voice trembling, "But Mom, I don't want to leave everything behind. I have friends here, and I finally found my place."

Dad chimed in, "We understand it's tough, Tanya, but think about the opportunities that await you in Shadowclaw. A better school, new experiences, and a chance to grow."

My eyes welled up with tears, "I know, Dad, but it's just so hard. I don't want to start over again."

My mom's voice softened, "Sweetheart, change can be scary, but sometimes it's necessary for growth. We're here to support you every step of the way."

A heated exchange ensued, with Tanya expressing her sadness and frustration, and her parents trying to convince her of the opportunities that awaited them in Shadowclaw. It was a clash of desires and expectations, leaving Tanya feeling unheard and trapped.

"But....." I tried saying. "Enough!!" Dad screamed in an outburst. "Penelope and I have been trying to be understanding and soft in trying to cajole you into this, we will not be accommodating of your bratty attitude anymore!" Dad said in a raised voice while breathing erratically.

I was too stunned to speak. Is this the same loving and doting father I had grown accustomed to all these years? I started crying and bawling my eyes out. This angered Dad more, he just huffed and walked out on me.

"It's okay dear, don't cry. He's just worried that you'd have to spend another year at home while your mates are moving ahead. Try to understand him" " Mom said in an apathetic manner before leaving the room to me and my depressing thoughts.

Hours later, I stood by my bedroom window, the soft glow of the fading sunset casting a warm hue on the room. Cardboard boxes lay scattered around, remnants of a life I was leaving behind. The weight of change settled in my chest as I traced the familiar rooftops of my old neighborhood.

"Why do we have to move, Mom? I don't want to leave everything behind," My voice wavered, a mix of frustration and sadness.

Mom, busy packing dishes in the kitchen, turned to look at me with a sympathetic smile. "It's a fresh start, sweetheart. Shadowclaw will be good for you. You'll make new friends, and I heard it's a beautiful place."

I clench my fists, my patience wearing thin. "I don't want new friends! I want my old life. Why can't things just stay the same?"

My father entered the room, his expression a mix of understanding and firmness. "Tanya, we've been over this. This move is good for you and the family. Your mom and I have been through a lot of societal embarrassment because of your lack of getting into the university... we finally got an admission offer from Mystique University, and we need to take this opportunity."

Feeling a surge of frustration. "What about what I need? No one cares about how I feel."

A tense silence filled the room, the unspoken tension thickening the air. Emotions simmered beneath the surface, waiting to erupt.

"You're being selfish, Tanya," my mother snapped, her patience wearing thin. "We're doing what's best for everyone. You need to understand that."

My eyes welled with tears as I glared at my parents. "Best for everyone except me."

The room echoed with the weight of unspoken words. Dad sighed, a mixture of sympathy and disappointment in his eyes. "You're leaving tomorrow. I expect you to be ready."

As my parents left the room, I sank onto her bed, her emotions in turmoil. The walls of my room felt like they were closing in, trapping me in a future I hadn't chosen. I wished I could escape, run away from the impending change. But as the first tear rolled down my cheek, I knew I had no choice but to face the unknown.

After realizing this, I stared at every corner of my room. The four walls are filled with different posters and pictures holding the dearest of memories, the interior decor purchased and used to decorate my room by Orion and me 2 months ago. I started crying profusely. Being all alone in my room, I had the time to process everything my parents said and I decided to move to ShadowClaw. If not for myself, then I'll do it for my family.

I sat in the backseat of the car, staring out at the passing landscape as my family drove towards my new home in ShadowClaw. The argument from last night still echoed in my mind, their words weighing heavily on my heart.

As the car rolled on, my mother, Penelope, turned to me. "Tanya, sweetheart, I know this move is difficult for you. But remember, Mystique University is a great opportunity for your future."

I sighed and looked down at my hands. "I know, mom. But leaving everything behind, my friends, the familiarity of home, it's just so hard."

Jack, my father, glanced at me through the rearview mirror. "We understand, Tanya. It's normal to feel scared and unsure about such a big change. But sometimes, stepping out of our comfort zone is necessary for growth."

A voice in my head interrupted with unusual enthusiasm. "Come on, Tanya! Think of all the amazing things waiting for you at the university. New friends, new experiences, and who knows, maybe you'll even discover a hidden talent."

Despite the voices' infectious optimism, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of anxiety. "I get all that, but what if I can't fit in? What if I don't find my place at Mystique University?" I whispered to no one in particular.

My mother reached across and squeezed my hand. "Sweetheart, I understand your worries, but you'll never know what you're capable of unless you try. Take this opportunity, give it your best shot, and remember that we're here to support you every step of the way."

I nodded, my resolve growing stronger. I discovered that my parents were right. I couldn't let fear hold me back from pursuing my dreams. "You're right, mom. I will give it my best. I'll make the most of this opportunity and see where it takes me."

The family fell into a comfortable silence as the car continued along the road. My mind was abuzz with thoughts of the unknown. I couldn't predict what my life at Mystique University would be like, but I was determined to embrace it with an open mind.

As we arrived in ShadowClaw, the towering buildings and bustling streets of the city came into view. My excitement grew as I saw the campus of Mystique University in the distance.

Pulling into the driveway of my new home, one of the school hostels, I took a deep breath, the weight of uncertainty lifting slightly from my shoulders. Unpacking my belongings, I began to envision my life in this new city, surrounded by unfamiliar faces and countless opportunities.

The first few weeks at the university were a whirlwind of orientation events, meeting new people, and studying my class schedule. My fears started to fade as I connected with fellow students who shared my passions and aspirations.

One day, after a particularly challenging registration, I found myself sitting in the university's courtyard, taking in the beauty of my surroundings. As I watched students going about their business, I felt a tap on my shoulder.

Turning around, I came face to face with Monica, a classmate I had met during orientation. "Hey, Tanya! Mind if I join you?"

A smile crept onto my face. "Not at all, Monica. I was just enjoying the view."

Monica settled down beside me. "You know, Tanya, when I first started here, I was terrified too. But I've found that the key is to embrace the new experiences and step out of our comfort zones."

I nodded, my newfound determination reinforced by Monica's words. "You're right, Monica. I'm ready to dive in headfirst and make the most of this journey."

I awoke to the faint glow of dawn seeping through the unfamiliar curtains of my new room. The room felt foreign, and the emptiness echoed the hollowness in my chest. I have yet to get a roommate. As I got ready for my first day at Mystique University, each movement felt like a step further away from everything I had ever known.

The university corridor was a labyrinth of curious stares and hushed whispers. My steps were cautious, my eyes fixed on the ground. The weight of being the new student pressed on my shoulders as I navigated through the sea of ambitious faces.

In my first lecture, the air hung heavy with anticipation. The professor introduced himself and asked us to do the same, I felt the gaze of my classmates fixate on me. As I took my seat, whispers slithered through the room like snakes.

"Who does she think she is, coming in here like she owns the place?"

I tried to focus on the lecture, but the words stung. The professor's voice became a distant murmur as the judgmental whispers echoed in my mind. It seems they despised outsiders over here. The professor's alarm rang, signaling the end of the class, but not the end of the scrutiny.

In the crowded hallways, my path intersected with a group of students who exchanged knowing glances. The leader, a girl with a confident stride and a superiority complex, blocked my way.

"Lost, new girl?" she sneered, her friends smirking in the background.

I mustered a weak smile. "Just trying to find my next class."

The leader rolled her eyes. "Well, you better find it fast. We don't need strays wandering around."

The encounter left me with a bitter taste, but I pressed on, determined not to let their words define me. The day unfolded like a series of trials, each lecture bringing its own set of challenges.

After the last class, I sought refuge in the university library. The hallowed silence of the shelves seemed to offer a sanctuary from the judgmental eyes that had scrutinized me all day. The librarian, an elderly woman with a keen understanding of the students' struggles, approached me with a kind smile.

"New faces are always met with curiosity here. Don't let it discourage you, my dear. Knowledge has a way of bridging gaps."

I nodded, grateful for the comforting words. The librarian shared tales of the university's mysterious past, hinting at a world intertwined with supernatural secrets that lurked beneath the surface.

As I explored the campus further, I stumbled upon a secluded spot beneath ancient oak trees. The moonlight painted patterns on the ground, and the distant howls of a wolf pack added an eerie soundtrack to the night. Unbeknownst to me, the pack observed from the shadows, sensing an unfamiliar energy resonating from the new student.

"Why are the wolves so damn loud? The forest is still some kilometers away from campus grounds." I sighed to myself, turning around to head back to my hostel. Upon arriving at my room, I found a strange girl there, her back to me.

"Who are you?"