**Aura's POV
It had been the busiest day I can remember in the pack. I've been running around like crazy in and out of the pack house for the preparation of Alpha Idris' homecoming. From helping with the decorations to cooking food and preparing the tables. My hair is out of place from it's bun and my apron is in its dirtiest. I should be saving my energy to think that I leave tonight, during the coronation when the pack is less likely to notice that someone has crossed and left the border. This was a strict order from the Alpha. I suddenly felt sad knowing I had to leave. I look around and tried to appreciate this pack who took me in and gave me a chance in life. Although not every experience is good, I will always be grateful still or I wouldn't have been alive today.
The day went by fast and the afternoon is almost over. I'm almost done arranging the dessert tray on the buffet table where the passing of the Alpha role will be held. A part of me wants to stay and witness the event that will change this pack's history. But I know I have more important matter to do for my own benefit.
"Oh everything looks absolutely lovely!" a cheerful voice beamed behind me that made me turn around. People bowed immediately and I did the same after realizing it was our Luna. Whoever passes by would give their courtesy or bow which showed love and respect from the pack.
"Thank you everyone! We could have never had these wonderful things without all your help!"
She uttered in awe while her eyes take in the pastel colors of the garden. Her smile will relieve your tiredness and anyone can sense she has a beautiful heart. I guess that's why she looks young for her age although she's old enough to be my mother. Her eyes rest on me that made me bow again.
"Thank you Luna Elise, we're happy you like it." I gave a warm smile, "We gave it our best that only the future Alpha deserves."
"And all your efforts are evident, everything is just perfect." As if she can't get enough of the beauty around her.
"And you look exceptionally beautiful in your dress, madam." As I ran my eyes from her hair to her toes and back up again. Admiring her medium updo and black, haltered dress. "You look unmistakenly young and vibrant,"
I witnessed her blush, letting out a small laugh.
"Oh that's very charming, darling. Thank you!" She sighed. "I wish my son will say the same, I miss him so much.."
Her voice trailed off clearly longing for her child. Then she checked her gold watch.
"Speaking of which, they should be here by now,"
And as if an angel spoke, a yellow Lamborghini arrived followed by two black Wrangler, four door jeeps. I felt my heart skip as our eyes followed the vehicles with matte-tinted glasses. The crowd hurried towards the cars approaching the front pathway of the mansion, for they all know who is in it.
"Oh he's here!" She leaped in excitement. "Excuse me, dear."
I watched the Luna hurried back inside. I didn't leave where I am, I know I'll just be shoved away by the crowd. Instead I ran to the three house in the east side of the garden and hurriedly climbed up the ladder. The tree house is still clean and cozy, with some of Idris' toys in a box on the corner. There are thick blankets piled up on the side and a wooden lamp. I hurried to the window just in time when the car door of the Jeep opened and it revealed the future Alpha from the passenger seat. I held my breath as I saw his smiling face at the pack members giving him a warm welcome. He's even more handsome than from the last time I saw him, even from this far -I swear it's going to make any ladies pee in their pants! Then for some weird phenomena, chocolate and peppermint slowly filled the air, tickles the senses on my tongue. I can't help but inhale the scent as I feel it bring pleasure and comfort to my nerves. I suddenly felt hypnotized and noticed everything and everyone being brought in slow motion. Then from where Idris stand, although the distance is of some extent, he looked up at the tree house.
Then our eyes met.. And it's as if time have stopped.
I felt my arms and legs weakened, my body melting, left in a daze while we held our gazes. I felt being drawn to him and let myself be known.. There's a strong force pushing me to get closer. Like I want to jump out of the window right now and fly to where he is and I was just about to when-
'Mate..'
I was brought back to my senses immediately as if someone snapped their fingers.
"Who's there??"
I turned around to look who spoke, I swear I heard someone. My eyes scanned every corner of the tree house but obviously, I'm alone. I quickly turned back my attention to where it was. But to my disappointment, all I can see now is his back as he goes inside the mansion.
I drew a sharp breath as I collapse beside the blankets. What a strange experience, I never felt it before. I was confused a great deal. What makes me want to jump out of the window and 'fly' to him?? Is that the effect of an Alpha or is that how much I liked him that I never even noticed?
'Bing, bing!'
It was my phone. I reached inside my jeans pocket for it only to find a message from Gamma Choi.
'See you in an hour at the car park. Wait by the black Jeep.'
I gasped recalling I have to leave very soon. I hurried down the ladder of the tree house and ran to the back door of the mansion leading to the kitchen and went straight to our room to take a quick bath and get ready.
Just in time, Jane walked in when I walked out of the bathroom.
"Aura! Where were you? Oh my God you should have seen Idris," She was talking too fast while I get busy getting dress.
"He is like a Greek God!! 'The' Adonis! man he's so hot I need to change Ina shorter outfit! Ha ha ha!"
I gave a small smile as I pull my luggage under the bed. But a small part of me wants to hit her on her head for what she just said.
'Who does she think she is trying to seduce my mate?!'
Wait - what the heck?!
"Oh it's time, huh?" Her voice suddenly sad. I was doing my bun when she came to hug me tight.
"I will miss you, Aura!"
I returned her hug and kissed her on her cheek.
"I'll be back. Don't worry.. we'll stay in touch." Tears suddenly forming in our eyes.
"Where's Linda? I can't go to the kitchen and let anybody see I'm leaving,"
"Wait here,"
Jane went out of the room to fetch her as I peak at the door. After a few seconds, I see them heading towards the room carefully talking in a low voice. As soon as Linda saw me, she dash at me giving her warm embrace. she gave me a kiss on the forehead.
"Call us weekly, no, everyday if you must! Stay in touch and whenever you need help let us know right away okay?"
I nodded and we cried as we said our goodbyes. They guarded the kitchen as I pass by with my luggage making sure I left the area unnoticed. I wave one last time before I turn to the corner of the hallway leading to the back door.
When I reached the dimly lit parking lot, I found Gamma Choi, the third in command of the current Alpha. He signaled for me to hurry and I did just as he said. He took my luggage and tossed it in the back seat as he pointed at me to take the passenger seat. He took the driver's seat the same time I took my seat next to his.
"Seatbelt." I nodded and did as he says but I realized I didn't know how to use the damn thing. Not like I've ever been in a car before. I literally, never left the Mansion, ever.
"Uh, Gamma.."
He turned to me with a slight annoyance in his face. He sighed as he does it for me teaching me how to use the thing. I felt so embarrassed at my age I had no idea of the simplest things. As if he can read my mind, he chuckled then started the engine driving away from the mansion.
"You're so determined to leave you don't even know how to use a seatbelt."
And I know he's correct so I didn't say anything but keep my head low.
I gave the pack house one last look as we reached the gate, my heart getting heavy as the memories I had with it flooded all over me. Then the Gamma cleared his throat as he hands me a piece of paper which looks very old, it even has a few tear and burns on its sides. His other hand still on the wheels.
"This was found in the basket we found you in. Don't open it until you reach your destination," he strictly said.
I was reluctant to take it, questions started to pile up in my head.
"The Alpha didn't want to give it to you until the right time. He wish you success in your journey and he wants to hear about it when you come back,"
We are now crossing the borders.
I hear my heart racing as it beats loudly against my chest.. All this time he had this information, so he knew this day would come? How much does he know that I don't? Did he just gave me an opportunity to grab on and this wasn't my decision alone after all? I can't help but suspect everything was orchestrated but the big question is, 'Why?'
Either way, there's no turning back we have just left the borders and I sense the Gamma is on high alert.