Dark Moon Rising

Chapter Six: I Know Your Vibe

Adrian's Point of View

Cyrpta's gaze was fixed on me once more. She believed I was unaware. At times, I pondered if she conveniently overlooked the fact that I, too, was a vampire-werewolf hybrid, possessing senses as keen as hers.

Crypta was concerned about how I would respond to seeing the blood. I hadn't had access to the nourishment we both needed, apart from the blood bags Alpha Felix had delivered to my room with an attractive nurse. The beautiful she-wolf stayed until I realized her motives were more than caring for me. My personal needs were fulfilled in various ways before the pack ceremony, but I chose not to disclose this to my friends. I preferred to keep my intimate affairs private and not share them with others.

I was taken aback by the attention I received from the she-wolves in the Dark Moon pack. It wasn't just the nurse who showed interest in me; others did as well. This differed from my previous pack, where my status had made me less desirable. Here, it seemed that being mysterious and unusual worked in my favor. When I mentioned it to Damian, he brushed it off with a laugh, attributing it to me being a good-looking, single guy. Damian didn't seem to take it seriously, but it was a novel experience for me. While I had experience with she-wolves before, none had ever pursued me like this!

I felt thankful for the chance to start anew and be embraced for who we were among friends. The pack ceremony had a great turnout, and everyone appeared genuinely happy to welcome us. This experience was a stark contrast to the Silver Fang pack. Despite the Alpha and Luna's efforts to foster an inclusive environment there, it never quite materialized for me growing up.

I thought about Seraphina Dusk, and how I had yet to hear from her. Selene had informed me that Rogue, Crypta, and I were the only remaining members of the Byte Club. The Moon Goddess had not mentioned our mysterious benefactor, and I hoped for her safety. She gave me and many others the means to provide for ourselves and help others in need. Seraphina Dusk was a hidden hero, one I revered and prayed was still with us.

Alpha Felix and Luna Jo had organized a celebration for the pack after the ceremony. Rogue stood close to Damian, and Crypta had wandered off somewhere. As much as I had enjoyed the unexpected attention earlier in the day, I didn't want it to be a habit and looked around for a familiar face to spend time with so that I would not be approached again. A vampire's bite can be euphoric and heighten one's s****l experience. The nurse from earlier was indeed making eyes at me, and as much as it was flattering, I wasn't looking for a relationship right now.

Alpha Felix left his Luna's side and came to stand with me.

"I notice you're the new heartthrob of the Dark Moon pack," Alpha Felix playfully remarked as I rolled my eyes.

"This isn't my usual scene, and I'm not looking for that," I sighed.

Alpha Felix chuckled, unlike the awkward laughter from Gamma Damian.

"I get it. My dad once gave me great advice on handling this. I didn't follow it immediately and ended up with quite a reputation. Be honest with them. Let them know you appreciate it but aren't interested in a relationship or that kind of involvement. They might still pursue you, as the she-wolves here can be quite persistent. If they cross boundaries you're uncomfortable with, inform me, my dad, or Beta Jacob. We'll step in for you," Alpha Felix reassured.

"I thought there might be something going on between you and Crypta. You seem very close," Alpha Felix mentioned.

"We're just friends. Rogue is like a sister to me, and Crypta is one of my closest friends," I explained.

It was challenging to convey that I felt drawn to Crypta but had never pursued it. She was stunning, rebellious, and alluring. Despite my occasional longing for more, we knew we were better off as friends. I had to constantly remind myself of this, especially when I caught myself gazing at her for too long or wishing for something more. The risk of jeopardizing our collaboration in the Byte Club or our friendship was too great.

The Byte Club is no more, Thaddeus pointed out to me.

I believe it's not worth taking the risk; we'll start anew, I confided in my wolf.

If you followed your instincts, you would discover her true feelings for you, Thaddeus urged.

I won't pursue it, so you need to move on from this obsession, I sighed.

When I first met Crypta, there was a powerful connection between us. It wasn't a mate bond but rather an attraction and a primal longing to unite with her. However, it never went beyond that point. We were truly good friends and had a great working relationship. Given our fresh start and impending cohabitation, it wasn't the right moment to take unnecessary risks by trying to start something that might not be mutual. Rogue, Crypta, and I would rely on each other more than ever during this crucial time of rebuilding our lives. It wouldn't be wise to jeopardize that.

"Done arguing with your wolf?" Alpha Felix grinned, observing my interaction.

Curiously, I asked, "How did you know I was arguing with Thaddeus?"

"Experience. When I met Jo, I was captivated. However, discovering her true self, or her perception of it, caused a rift due to my pride. Don't dismiss the potential with Crypta, especially if your wolf urges you. Trust me," Alpha Felix advised, offering reassurance before mingling with other pack members.

I must have had a panicked look on my face because Luna Jo came to stand with me next.

"Feeling overwhelmed?" she softly inquired with a shy smile.

I looked at her perplexed. It was indeed overwhelming, but in what way did she mean?

"This pack. I found my first true friend here and learned what belonging means. My adoptive father, Lennox, shielded me and discouraged connections. I understand his reasons, but it caused lasting harm. Even now, approaching new people makes me anxious. Reaching out to you took courage," Luna Jo shared.

Listening to Luna Jo's heartfelt words, it was evident that her journey involved resilience and personal growth. Her bravery in sharing her story showcased her inner strength and determination to conquer her fears. This deepened my understanding of the Moon Goddess’s message to Rogue, Crypta, and me.

"Felix seems to forget that not everyone had the same supportive network growing up as he did. Maybe staying in the packhouse for a few days isn't what the three of you need. If you'd like, I can arrange for you to move into your new accommodations tomorrow. How does that sound?" Luna Jo proposed.

This change would definitely address the she-wolves waiting at my door, eager for action. I expressed my agreement with a nod, thanking her, and Luna Jo smiled brightly. She assured me that she would talk to Olivia, the head omega at the packhouse, to make the necessary arrangements. Luna Jo mentioned that everything would be furnished, and she was happy to inform me that Selene had already replaced all the equipment that had been damaged. Despite receiving clothing and toiletries upon our arrival, Luna Jo insisted on sending us shopping for anything required the next day. She would pay for all purchases made. I appreciated her generosity, and Luna Jo mentioned that the local stores within the pack would benefit from our purchases, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved. Luna Jo shared that Alpha Felix had done something similar for her when she first came to the Dark Moon pack as well.

I thought we were supposed to assist her in healing, I said to my wolf.

Perhaps by aiding us, Luna Jo finds a way to process her emotions, Thaddaeus proposed.

Nevertheless, she is among the most gentle, generous, and compassionate souls we have encountered. I am grateful we are here, my wolf added.

I shared the sentiment and was determined not to jeopardize our current situation.

No more talk of pursuing Crypta. We focus on what Selene asked us to do. Nothing more, nothing less, I insisted.

Fine. For now, agreed Thaddaeus.