The Alpha's Runaway Queen

Chapter 16 - Nine years

Jasmine POV

The decision to go to medical school had been a daunting one, but Reagan’s encouragement played a big role in it. “You have the mind and the heart for it, Jas,” he had told me. “I know you can do it.” Those words echoed in my mind as I faced the challenge head-on.

Before anything else, to avoid being found, I made some significant changes to my appearance. My time at the beach had darkened my skin tone, giving me a sun-kissed look that was close to tan. I took a drastic step and cut my long hair, which used to cascade down to my waist, to shoulder length. I always kept it tied up in a ponytail or a bun, a style I almost never wore back home. Additionally, I started wearing fake glasses, an accessory that further altered my appearance. These changes, though small, helped me blend into my new life., making it harder for anyone from my past to recognize me.

Going past the physical change, I thought city-s***h-university student life would be easier than pack life. How hard could it be, right? I’d already survived rigorous training, patrol duties, and the constant pressure to prove myself. But university and medical school were a different beast altogether. The lectures were relentless, the textbooks were thick, and the expectations sky-high. More than that, it was so expensive. Getting a part-time job was in my mind, but with all the studying I had to do, I could say I was fortunate enough to have money. I had to scrimp though as I didn’t want to waste my resources. I lived in simple terms, one thing that my parents had taught me, even when we had power and money.

My first year was the hardest- adjusting to city and human life and, at the same time, studying. There were days I barely slept, trying to cram as much information as possible into my brain. I’d fall asleep with my head resting on my desk, surrounded by open books and notes. Bridget would often whisper words of encouragement.

“You can do this, Jasmin. You’re stronger than this.”

One night, after yet another grueling day, I found myself standing in front of the bathroom mirror, tears streaming down my face. “I can’t do this, Bridget,” I whispered as my voice broke. “I’m not cut out for this.”

“You are,” Bridget responded firmly. “Remember why you started. Remember Reagan’s words. You have the mind and the heart for this.”

It was those words that kept me going. I threw myself into my studies with a renewed determination. My magic proved to be a blessing. I could wash dishes and do laundry while still studying, my books floating in front of me as I worked. It could be the other way, too. The clothes would fold themselves, while I cooked and studied. It was a small advantage, but it made a world of difference.

My discipline from pack life helped too. I knew how to push myself into hard work, with the help of Bridget, and how to manage my time effectively. Slowly, but surely, I began to excel. My passion for science - for biology and human anatomy, fueled me. With hard work and sacrifice, I finished Biology, my pre-med course, earlier than most of my peers. I completed it in two years, instead of four, thanks to all the advanced classes I took in high school and the summer classes I enrolled in. Not to brag, but I also finished medical school early, taking it only for three years when it was a four-year program.

Graduation was a surreal experience. As I stood there in my cap and gown, receiving my diploma, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment that was overwhelming. I had done it. I had achieved something I once thought was impossible. However, it was also a time of sadness. I had no one to celebrate my triumph with.

But there was no time to rest. My time for sadness was cut short as I immediately turned to studying for the medical licensure exam. It was not easy and I was glad that I passed. After passing the exam, I enrolled in a three-year residency program in pediatrics. The work was grueling, but I loved every minute of it. The children I cared for brought light into my life, their smiles and laughter a constant reminder of why I had chosen this path.

My seniors took notice of my dedication and perseverance. “Jasmine, you’re a joy to work with,” Dr. Carter, one of my mentors, told me one day. “Keep it up.”

I was so elated that day and it gave me a reason to strive further. During my free time, I dabbled in portion-making, trying to concoct medicines that could help eradicate certain illnesses or at least ease the pain. It was a way for me to merge my two worlds, to use my magic to benefit humanity.

With all the hectic schedule and even the praises I have received for my hard work, there were times I still could not help but break down. One time, I thought of Reagan again. He was never far from my mind, anyway. After a particularly hard day, I cried my heart out and longed for Reagan’s comfort. “I miss him, Bridget,” I sobbed. “I miss him so much.”

Bridget’s response was soft and sad. “I know, Jasmine. I miss him too. Maybe it’s time to visit home. You don’t have to worry. I’m sure they will welcome us with open arms.”

But I wasn’t ready. I felt like I still had something to prove. I wanted to finish my residency first. However, even after completing it, only in two years, life had other plans. Invitations to give talks at medical universities started pouring in, and I became busier than ever.

Eventually, I settled down in Viden City and worked at a hospital there. My promise to Bridget was forgotten in the whirlwind of my new life. I was making a difference, saving lives, but the emptiness inside me remained. Reagan’s absence was a constant ache, a reminder of what I had left behind.

One evening, as I walked home after a long shift, I thought about all the triumphs and failures that had brought me to that point. Medical school had been a battle, but I had emerged victorious. The residency had tested my limits, but I had persevered. Next, I became a respected doctor, admired by my peers and loved by my patients.

Yet, there was a part of me that was still incomplete. I had run away from my past, from my pack, from Reagan. I had achieved so much, but at what cost?

As I reached my apartment, I paused, looking up at the night sky. The stars were out, twinkling brightly. “Maybe it’s time,” I whispered to myself. “Maybe it’s time to go back home, at least for a visit.”

Nine years had passed, and perhaps the wounds had closed. I assumed they had moved on. Reagan must have at least two or three kids by now with his mate. Kaia must be the same. About Tania, there could be a huge possibility she had not yet settled down. I imagined her still dating and taking time before she chose the right one for her.

That same night, just as I was about to settle down in my bed, my phone pinged. I thought it would be a message from the hospital but what I read surprised me.

“Hi, Jas. I’m wondering if you are free on Saturday night for a movie.”