Dark Moon Rising

Chapter Sixteen: My First Friend

Eyrx's Point of View

This is what having a friend must feel like. Jo was so easy to talk to, effortlessly funny. I enjoyed Luna's stories about her early days in the Dark Moon pack. Her friend, Clara, seemed like someone who would always be truthful, even when you least wanted it. I was worried that Alpha Felix would miss Luna Jo, but she assured me that Alpha Felix was occupied with his Beta Jacob and wouldn't miss her. The joy that spread across her face when she mentioned his name was lovely. I wished to have a mate who loved me that deeply one day.

I heard the two tiny heartbeats and asked Luna Jo about the babies. Jo mentioned that her pregnancy was still early and nothing unusual had occurred. She had read a pregnancy guidebook, but it was not customized for werewolves, which made it less relevant. Jo reassured me that she wasn't experiencing much nausea but had developed an intense craving for pizza and wings. With no comparison to typical pregnancies, except for woodland creatures, I smiled and nodded along with Jo as she spoke.

"Do you think they will be boys or girls?" I asked, curious as to what she thought.

Her eyes widened in response to my question.

"I hadn't even considered that, to be honest. I'm still trying to comprehend the idea that there are two of them," she confessed.

"Do you have a preference?" I inquired.

"Honestly? No. I want them to be healthy and grow up to know they are valued and loved," Jo said.

Engrossed in conversation with Jo, time slipped away unnoticed. I was appreciative of her presence.

"There they are," Jo indicated, gesturing towards Aralia and Wesley. Feeling a mix of nerves and excitement, I stood up, eager to leave a positive impression on Wesley, who was not only Aralia's mate but also an essential part of her life and, thus, mine.

"Thank you for staying," I expressed sincerely. "I feel much better now."

"Anytime, Eyrx," she responded with a smile. "Let's go meet them together now."

Aralia's eyes lit up with warmth and familiarity as we approached, while Wesley welcomed us with a friendly smile. Wesley greeted me warmly, extending his hand, and I shook it firmly, concealing my nerves.

"I'm delighted to meet you, Eyrx," he expressed in a relaxed and inviting manner.

"Thank you," I replied, detecting the sincerity in his words.

"I'm happy to meet you, too," I added.

There was an uncomfortable silence, and it dawned on me that they expected me to lead the conversation. I hesitated, uncertain of how to proceed or what to say.

"Maybe you could invite Jo and Wesley to visit your home so they know where it is located, should they wish to visit you another time," Aralia proposed.

Was my home presentable? I hoped it was. Aralia was the only one aware of my residence, as it had been our shared home until my adoptive mother found her mate.

"As long as you are comfortable with that, Eyrx. I understand this is all new for you, and we don't want to overwhelm you," Wesley said kindly.

"I wasn't expecting any visitors, but I would happily welcome you for a cup of tea. I believe Rooibos tea is safe for Jo. If I'm mistaken, please let me know so we can prepare something else," I mentioned.

"As long as I stick to just one cup, I'll be fine. Your caution is much appreciated," Jo replied with a smile.

"It's one of my favorite hot beverages. It contains a blend of compounds supporting cell development to maintain bone mass, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties," the young Luna added.

I wasn't aware of all that, but it did taste delicious.

"Jo is passionate about phytotherapy. She has always been intrigued by how plants and herbs can manage health conditions, even from a young age. When Jo was in college, she was taking courses in environmental science," Wesley said proudly.

Jo blushed under his praise. It was apparent that the two shared a strong bond. I hoped that one day, I could make Wesley proud of me, too.

I led them down the secluded path to my home, nestled in the center of the ancient forest. The cabin, made from durable, aged logs, exuded a timeless charm, seamlessly blending with the grand red pines that surrounded it. The exterior featured a robust, handcrafted wooden door and a stone chimney. Large windows framed in natural wood offered breathtaking views of the forest.

The interior of my home had a minimalist charm. The cozy living room had a spacious stone fireplace, a comfortable yet uncomplicated sofa, and a few armchairs around a rustic coffee table. Handcrafted wooden shelves decorated the walls, showcasing an array of books, plants, candles, and photographs of Aralia and me. Jo picked up one of the picture frames and grinned.

"You were such an adorable child, Eyrx!" my new friend exclaimed.

"Thank you," I replied quietly.

"He was indeed, and quite a bright one as well. Eyrx may not have had a formal education, but he was always enthusiastic about learning. Teaching my son was a delightful experience," Aralia smiled warmly at me.

I returned her smile and then led them through my humble home. Inside were two cozy bedrooms, each furnished with a simple wooden bed adorned with warm, thick quilts, a dresser with a mirror, a compact writing desk, and a comfortable chair. The small bathroom was neat and functional, showcasing a clawfoot bathtub with a shower attachment, a small sink with a mirror, and a toilet.

Though compact, the kitchen was stocked with all the necessary items. A vintage stove and a small fridge were placed against one wall, accompanied by wooden countertops and open shelves. In the middle was a small round wooden dining table surrounded by chairs. A window above the sink offered a delightful view of the garden outside.

As I dug out the box of Rooibos tea, Aralia filled the kettle and set it to boil on the stove. I took out four mugs and dug through the cupboards for cookies to offer my unexpected guests.

"What do you cultivate in your garden, Eryx?" Wesley inquired, initiating a conversation.

"I grew green beans, spinach, basil, parsley, chives, and thyme throughout the summer. My mother has always taken care of my groceries, as I have been hesitant to venture far from home," I confessed.

Aralia ensured I had everything I needed, but I knew I would soon have to start looking after these things myself.

I observed Jo and Wesley communicating without words. They appeared to be connected. Although Aralia raised her eyebrows, she remained silent.

As the kettle began to whistle, I turned to prepare hot water and tea bags for each mug. While doing this, I overheard Wesley and Jo reassuring Aralia that everything would be fine and I would be welcomed and safe.

"Eyrx, my mate, and I have connected. We would be delighted to invite you to the packhouse for a meal and an opportunity to meet more members of the Dark Moon pack, including Crypta," Jo offered.

My mother was taken aback at the mention of Crypta.

"I told Jo that I had conversed with Crypta when she visited the forest for solitude, but I mentioned that she had never seen me and only heard my voice," I explained.

"Crypta?" Wesley exclaimed.

"Well, this should be intriguing," he remarked with a smile.

I was really hoping it would be.