***Lisa's POV***
We all squeezed into the back seat, joking about how Anderson was our designated driver. I sat between Nicky and Kyleen, with whom I had formed a close bond very quickly. But then again, Kyleen had spent the most time by my side while I was in a coma, and Nicky was simply a very likable person. It was strange to think that these people were once strangers to me, especially since I had just woken up from a serious accident. Yet, in their presence, I felt comfortable and safe, as if I had known them forever.
Raven's voice suddenly chimed in my head.
"Anderson sharing his venom with you seems to have forged a strong bond. I have a feeling we'll all be very close." Her tail thumped happily.
As we pulled into the parking lot, Anderson gave us instructions. "Remember, Lisa needs to pace herself even though she's healed now. She may tire easily."
He was so handsome with his blue eyes and fluffy beard.
"Don't worry about the price, Lisa. We've got you covered! This is a special day," Nicky said with a warm smile, taking my hand.
It wasn't the biggest mall I'd ever seen, but it had all the usual stores – Forever 21, Victoria's Secret, H&M, and Target.
The girls dragged me into Victoria's Secret while Anderson sat outside on a bench pretending to be deeply invested in his phone.
"This store is amazing! So many cute things," Nicky exclaimed as she admired some elegant lingerie.
"It must be nice to have someone to wear these for," pouted Kyleen as she looked at some lingerie. "I feel like I'll never find my mate, and be alone with Glory forever."
"Yes, she's a beautiful wolf. She's bigger than most females and has green eyes and white fur with speckles of tan. She loves napping in the sun, so I let her out on days when it's sunny. It helps after a long shift," Kyleen explained with affection.
"She sounds lovely. I wonder what Raven looks like. How do you transform into a wolf?" I inquired while adding items to my basket.
Nicky suggested, "Come on, let's go try these on and I can give you more information." She ran to the changing rooms and Kyleen and I followed suit.
As I undressed, I noticed small scars on my legs and ribs but was surprised at how good my figure looked - small frame, wide hips, and smooth pale skin.
"So, the first time you want to be with someone, it's usually very painful. But as you continue to do it more often, the pain lessens because you become accustomed to it. Our pack has a tradition of having a ceremony and then going for a run with the new members before they are officially accepted. However, if someone is turned into a werewolf, the rule is to have one shift before the run after their ceremony so they know what to expect. I love wearing black; it makes my butt look amazing," Nicky explained.
"What exactly happens at this ceremony?" I asked, admiring a cute rose gold outfit that I had picked out. I was satisfied with my small waist and decent-sized chest, but I couldn't help wishing I was a bit taller. I twirled in front of the mirror to get a better look.
"The day of the ceremony we wait until noon to begin, heading into the dense woods where the Elder's stage is set up. It's a magnificent rock formation surrounded by trees and colorful flowers. A beautiful fountain sits on the stage, used for blessings by the Alpha. The ceremony begins with a commitment speech from the Alpha and then a Beta steps forward to hand them the Elder's dagger. Sometimes it's me, or another Beta. The Alpha will cut the palm of his hand, then take the dagger and do the same to the new pack mate. As they clasp their hands together, their blood mixes and forms a link between him and the whole pack. This allows them to communicate telepathically with everyone in the pack."
I eagerly listened as Kyleen explained everything to me while showing off her haul of cute matching underwear and lingerie.
"What's the Alpha's name? When will I get to meet him?" I asked while putting my dress back on.
"Noah Brax," Nicky replied as we left the changing room.
For some reason, hearing his name made my stomach feel strange.
"He's thirty-eight and an absolute Demigod," Nicky continued.
"He's also unmated, which is rare for male werewolves of his age. He's not a man w***e like most of them either. He's only had a couple of girlfriends before becoming Alpha, but they ended up finding their mates in other packs," Kyleen chimed in.
"After becoming Alpha, he wanted to be more serious and didn't have time for random hookups with girls who just wanted to brag about sleeping with the Alpha. He's different from others, and that's something we appreciate about him," she finished as we headed toward the checkout line.
I set down my belongings on the counter and turned to ask, "Do you think he'll let me join the pack? What does he look like?"
The cashier, whose appearance resembled that of a Barbie doll, eyed us in annoyance. I could sense her insecurities. I didn't know insecurity had a distinct scent, but I guess being a werewolf, I will learn about all sorts of smells.
"Your total will be $350," said the cashier in a sour tone.
Nicky handed over her debit card and directed her attention towards me instead of the cashier.
"He's gorgeous! What's not to like? Besides, you're practically one of us now since Anderson changed you. You're super cute and very likable," Nicky smiled at me.
I grabbed my bags and thanked the cashier as I wished her a good day. She seemed surprised by my kind words.
After paying for their items, we met Anderson outside the store at his bench.
"Is everything alright, ladies? Looks like you all had a good time," greeted Anderson with a smile as he got up and took our bags.
"Oh, you don't have to carry my bags. I can manage. I don't want you to feel like my bag boy," I protested, feeling guilty.
"It's no problem at all, Lisa. That's why I'm here! I don't mind helping out. Plus, carrying heavy bags would tire you out. And I am a gentleman; this is my job," Anderson flexed his muscles and puffed out his chest playfully.
Kyleen and Nicky burst out laughing before embracing him. I smiled and nodded in agreement with him.
As we made our way to a few more stores, I started to feel drained. Anderson suggested we take a break for lunch and some ice cream. We settled in the food court, devouring burgers, fries, and milkshakes while cracking jokes with Anderson. After finishing our meals, we headed back to the car.
Anderson loaded all of our purchases into the trunk before taking his place behind the wheel. It was comical watching him carry all of our bags. As I went to climb in the car my eyes began to droop, and I couldn't keep them open.
"Lisa, if you're tired, you can lay down and rest your head on Nicky's lap. I'll sit up front with Anderson," Kyleen offered, helping me into the backseat.
I rested my head on Nicky's lap as she gently stroked my hair. She smelled like coconuts and sunscreen. What a fun day. I couldn't help but wonder if my life before this was just as enjoyable.
***
***Andersons POV***
As I spent the day with Lisa, I came to understand that she was constantly battling embedded trauma responses. She would apologize for everything and insist on doing things on her own. It's heartbreaking to witness, but I hope we can help her break free from this mindset. It's astonishing how even after surviving a gunshot wound, her brain still clings to those traumatic patterns.
Glancing in the rearview mirror, I saw Lisa fast asleep on Nicky's lap. Nicky had one hand resting on Lisa while the other held her phone, likely messaging Mike. Lisa's hair had grown since she woke up and fell delicately around her face. Nicky gently brushed it away.
"She is truly a sight to behold," my wolf Kane whispered through our mind-link as I lost myself in thought.
"Yes, she truly is. Her eyes are unlike any I've ever seen before - not on a pureblood werewolf or even a transformed human," I replied to Kane.
"There's something about her that sets her apart. I can sense it, but I can't quite put my paw on it. And it's not a bad feeling, just different. In all our years together, this has never happened."
"I noticed the same thing. Is it just me or does it seem like her hair is growing? And some of her injuries seem to be healing faster than usual."
"I've noticed that too. She's a unique little Wolf."
"Are you alright?" Kyleen asked, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder.
"I'm alright. I was just talking to Kane about Lisa and how she still carries trauma responses in her brain, even though she may not be aware of it. We also noticed her hair has grown longer."
"It's not surprising, given what she's been through. The brain is incredibly complex, and we never know how it will respond to trauma. If she does regain her memories, there's no telling how much will come back or how quickly. We need to support her through it all."
I nodded in agreement as we arrived at the Pack House gates. It was a vast and beautiful territory, surrounded by mountains and filled with lush foliage and wildlife that our wolves loved to hunt. However, we always respected the land and only took what was necessary.
We drove through the gates and up to the mansion, made of grey marble stone with stunning stained-glass windows tinted in orange hues. Four stories tall, it housed all of the higher-ranking members of the pack but was also open for all members to come and go as they pleased. Only those of higher rank had access to the upper floors. The mansion was covered in ivy that climbed up to the roof, and colorful flowers bloomed everywhere. The driveway was lined with rose bushes and loose gravel, leading up to a large stone fountain in the center. The pups loved playing in the fountain on hot summer days, adding to the overall happiness of everyone who lived here.
As I pulled up to the valet, Joel, a young man with red hair and green eyes greeted me. He was training to join the guard lineup, but because he wasn't yet eighteen, he couldn't officially join since he hadn't gained his werewolf abilities.
"Hey Anderson, hope you had a good time with the girls. They seem like they enjoyed themselves," Joel said with a grin, nodding toward Lisa and Nicky who were both fast asleep.
Nicky's head hung back, snoring loudly. I couldn't help but let out a small laugh.
"Hi Joel, yeah it was a blast. Those two are a handful."
I handed him my car keys.
"Pfft, don't deny it, you love us," joked Kyleen as she climbed out of the car.
She playfully pinched my cheek before heading over to a still-sleeping Nicky who was now drooling.
"She's just the epitome of grace and beauty," chuckled Kyleen as she opened the door and gently woke up Nicky, who snorted and choked on her saliva.
It took her a moment to fully wake up and realize that we had arrived back home.
"Wow, I didn't think I was that tired. Lisa, wake up, we're home," Nicky gently shook Lisa awake.
Lisa slowly opened her eyes and blinked a few times before sitting up straight in surprise.
"It's okay, sorry for startling you," Nicky apologized as she hugged Lisa to calm her down.
I walked around to the other side of the car to help Lisa get out.
"I'm sorry I was lost in a strange dream. None of it made sense, but I thought I was back in the black void I was in before I woke up in your world," Lisa explained as she put her small hand in mine.
I assisted her out of the car, and she straightened her dress and smoothed down her hair as it danced in the gentle breeze.
"Don't worry about it. Nicky fell asleep too. We spent the last twenty minutes listening to her snore and talk in her sleep about Mike and his... well-endowed nature," chuckled Kyleen.
While the girls chattered, I went to the trunk and gathered all of their bags. Joel waited until the girls were safely out of the car before driving off with a generous tip and a wave goodbye.
As we walked into the house, the girls led the way while I followed behind with their bags.
"Thanks for the ride, Anderson. Since Mike will be working the night shift, Lisa can stay with me tonight. Then we can figure out where to put her tomorrow," said Nicky as she unlocked her door.
"I think I'll head to my room to unpack and work on a report about Lisa's progress. Then I have some paperwork to catch up on. I'll probably turn in early, but I know Lisa will be in good hands," said Kyleen as she hugged Nicky and Lisa goodnight.
Kyleen and I arrived at her room.
"Thanks for everything today, Anderson," she said with a smile as she unlocked her door.
I carried her bags inside and placed them next to her cluttered desk. Despite being incredibly smart, Kyleen wasn't the most organized person. But that was just part of her charm.
"It was my pleasure. You deserve some time to relax. Alpha texted me earlier, saying he'll be arriving tomorrow. I have to finish my report and go down to dinner. I hear Barbra is making a roasted pig with all my favorite sides. I can't miss that. I'll make sure one of the omegas brings you a good share," I said, ruffling her hair before heading out for the night.
***
*** Lisa's POV ***
After changing into comfortable sweatpants, t-shirts, and matching sloth socks, Nicky and I headed to the dining hall for supper. The packhouse was a sight to behold - painted in royal blue and black with gold accents, filled with lush potted plants that made it feel like a rainforest. The flooring was a dark cherry hardwood. The walls were adorned with stunning paintings. Embedded into the walls were massive fish tanks displaying an array of exotic fish.
Chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a rainbow of colors on the walls and floors. It wasn't until we walked to the dining hall that I realized just how stunning the house was.
This was where all the higher ranks ate with their mates, and the omega's who ran house chores wore simple but clean white blouses or dress shirts paired with black pants. They all seemed happy and efficient in their work, smiling and greeting us as we passed by. I felt like a celebrity.
The dining table was massive and hand-carved, surrounded by equally beautiful chairs. Above it was a glass ceiling through which we could see the sky slowly turning pink and purple as fluffy clouds drifted by and birds flew overhead. Through large windows on the right side of the room, we could see pups playing with their parents and a group of orphaned pups being looked after by caretakers. A grey cat sat on a nearby tree stump, watching a bluebird search for insects on the ground.
Nicky's eyes lit up as she motioned for me to take a seat next to her. "You have to sit next to me, Lisa. Barbra's cooking is amazing," she exclaimed with excitement as she pulled out a chair for me.
I sat down and Nicky beamed at me. As more people filed into the room, I couldn't help but notice how beautiful they all were - both the women and the men, who were also muscular and handsome. Everyone greeted me with a smile before taking their seats.
Soon enough, a group of omegas emerged from the kitchen carrying a massive pig on a silver platter, placing it proudly in the center of the table. They followed with platters of sides such as potato salad, corn, fruit, beans, and dinner rolls. The aroma was incredible, and I could see that Nicky was just as excited as I was.
"GET IN MY BELLY!" Nicky shouted gleefully as she eagerly grabbed a plate and started devouring her food.
A tall, slender man approached us and introduced himself as Benjamin, Barbra's other son. He had curly brown hair, glasses, and a beard. "Don't mind Nicky and her eating habits," he chuckled. "I'm sure she could out-eat even our Alpha."
He shook my hand before sitting down next to me.
"Shut the hell up, Benjamin. You're never around long enough to see how I devour my food," Nicky grumbled with a mouthful of beans.
"Hey there, Nicky. You've got some bean juice on your cleavage. Nice to meet you, Benjamin," I said, shaking his hand.
We all chuckled at Nicky's messy eating habits. But who could blame her? The food was delicious.
"Excuse me, everyone!"
I turned to see an elegant older woman in her sixties, with grey hair styled in a bob that framed her face. She wore glasses and was extremely tall.
"I'd like to officially introduce myself to our guest. As some of you may know, we took in Miss Lisa and helped her through her recovery. My name is Barbra, and I am the former Luna of this pack. This is John, my husband, and the previous Alpha. We have since retired from our roles but continue to keep this place running while our son Noah is away," Barbra explained as she placed a hand on the shoulder of an older man.
He was a big, burly man with a full white mustache. It was clear from their loving gazes towards each other that they were deeply devoted mates. He took her hand and planted a gentle kiss on it as she spoke.
John greeted me with a warm smile, his bushy mustache moving as he spoke. I couldn't help but blush and smile back.
"Thank you for inviting me into your home and for your kindness," I replied, nervously biting my lip.
"You are more than welcome, dear. If you need anything at all, don't hesitate to ask. We live on the fourth floor, our names are on the door," said Barbra, smiling kindly at me. "I just want everyone to be welcoming and helpful. This place is quite large, and I wouldn't want Lisa to get lost. Now let's enjoy dinner," she instructed before sitting down next to John, who leaned in to kiss her on the cheek.
Playfully, she swatted him on the chest. As I watched this loving couple, I couldn't help but wonder if I had ever experienced such happiness and love in my previous life.
"Hey baby, just came by to say goodnight and... hey there, bean juice," a tall, bald man interrupted as he leaned down and licked Nicky's cleavage. I could smell her sudden arousal. This must be Mike.
Feeling embarrassed, I blushed and cleared my throat.
"Oh hi, babe. This is the one I was telling you about earlier," Nicky said to Mike in a flirty tone before smacking him playfully on top of his head.
He pulled away with a seductive smile that made her blush even more.
"Okay, but tomorrow night, I get you all to myself. I want to see what you bought today, and by see, I mean I want you to sit on my face," Mike exclaimed as he grabbed Nicky's n****e and stood up.
I couldn't hold back my laughter.
Finally, Mike turned to face me.
"Wow, those eyes are amazing. Nicky was right about you being gorgeous. But she's still the most beautiful one in my book," boasted Mike.
Mike's soft blue eyes met mine, reminding me of an MMA fighter. He had a rugged appearance, but there was something undeniably cute about him.
"I'm one of the pack's Beta guards and I'm on the night shift all this week. It seems like Nicky has found a good friend in you. Unfortunately, I have to run now, but we'll definitely see each other again. Goodnight, baby," Mike pulled Nicky in for a deep kiss before leaving.
Benjamin and I looked at each other, trying to contain our laughter. He leaned over and whispered to me,
"Welcome to the world of werewolves. They're some of the most sexually charged creatures out there."
We finished our meal, which was followed by a delicious Tres Leches cake for dessert.
***
Nicky and I settled onto her luxurious California King-sized bed, sinking into the plush blankets.
"That meal was incredible! Benjamin is quite the character," I remarked as I snuggled deeper into the soft bedding.
"Yeah, he's not around much. He's usually traveling for work. But when he's here, he's a riot. Sorry about Mike. He can be a bit rough around the edges. Don't be surprised if I disappear for a day or two after his shift; we usually sneak off somewhere. But things have been hectic with Alpha gone and with you coming here. Not that it's a bad thing," Nicky said with a sigh, turning her pillow to the cool side.
"Hey, question. What's your wolf's name? What does she look like?" I asked, curling up next to Nicky with another pillow.
"Her name is Amani. She's a little goofy, like me. She's brown and black, kind of like a German Shepherd. Mike's wolf is named Koda. He's huge; a grey wolf with bright orange eyes. He can be fierce, but Amani and Koda are quite fond of each other," Nicky answered, snuggling closer as our heads rested together.
"That's so sweet. I hope Raven and I are lucky enough to find such a strong bond," I mused wistfully, feeling a pang of sadness wash over me as my head started to ache. I closed my eyes and tried to relax.
"The Moon Goddess has chosen you for a reason, and she has a mate for everyone. This includes those who were once human but are now werewolves. Don't dwell on it too much. Just remember that you are safe here, and we are going to become very close friends. I already feel like I love you like a sister. My other siblings have moved to different packs to be with their mates. Just don't mate with another pack member. Stay with me," she said with a half-hearted laugh as she pulled me in for a comforting hug.
Her coconut and sunscreen scent enveloped me, soothing my nerves. She pulled a warm fleece blanket over us.
"You should get some rest now; tomorrow will be a big day. Our Alpha will return, and everything will be okay, I promise."
I smiled as I snuggled into the blankets. The thought of meeting the leader of such an incredible pack of werewolves filled me with excitement.
"Good night, Raven. Sleep well."
"Good night, Lisa. Have sweet dreams. Tomorrow will be great," Raven replied before settling down for the night.
I felt at peace and slept soundly throughout the night. Any strange noises that echoed in my mind were kept at bay by Raven's presence. In the middle of the night, Nicky made some farting sounds and complained about eating too many beans, making me laugh.