Finding Her

Chapter 4

I run along the outside of the ballroom trying to put as much distance between us. I find myself pushing past people and almost knocking a few over. I don't bother apologizing and just keep pushing through the thick crowd.

I find myself heading towards the doors that lead outside. I step out into the backyard and assess my surroundings. There is a small dance floor set up with newly found mates dancing. Above them are a bunch of fairy lights and flowers are scattered around. They have a few tables and chairs set up for people to sit and chat. It has a very romantic feel to it. There's a fair amount of people out here, but not as many as inside.

I have no place to hide out here, and I can't go back inside. I look through one of the floor length windows into the ballroom. I can see the staircase from where I'm standing, and see the dark haired man quickly running down the steps.I don't have much time before he trails me out here. I look around again and see a path that leads into the woods. I run over to the trees trying not to draw attention to myself. Luckily, everyone is too engrossed in what they are doing to notice a girl running like a mad woman. It also helps that is is dark outside and the only lights are from lanterns scattered around the garden and light shining out from inside.

"Stupid shoes" I mutter to myself glaring at the death traps. Running in heels is just a difficult as I always thought it would be. I mean, it took me a while to figure out how to walk in them, so how can I expect to run in them?

I had to slow down going across the lawn because the heel part kept getting stuck in the grass. I leaned up against a tree and removed the stupid shoes and hid them behind another tree. I looked over my shoulder to see if anyone was looking in my direction before slipping into the woods.

I could run faster now that I ditched the heels. I couldn't shift into my wolf because I didn't want to tear my clothes or ruin my hair. I did have to go back eventually.

I ran as fast as I could not caring where I was going, or if I got lost. I could feel the soft wind against my face and feel the crunch of the dead leaves and pine needles under my feet. It was dark out, but with my enhanced eyesight, I was able to see perfectly fine.

I decided to go off the small path to make it harder to find me down, in case he is able to track me out here. I ran as fast as I could ducking under branches and climbing over trees. I ignored the pain in my feet from the sharp rocks and points sticks.

I ran what felt like forever but was probably more like five minutes. I finally stopped to catch my breath leaning my back against a tree. I looked around to see if I had any clue where I was.

Nope. No idea.

I turned back around and found a beautiful lake. It was surrounded by grass and wild flowers. I walked closer and plopped down on the grass facing the lake. I pulled my knees to my chest and rested my head on my knees.

Looking at the peaceful water helped me calm down a little and I could feel my heartbeat slowing back to a normal pace.

I had no idea how I was going to get back. I was in unfamiliar territory and it is dark out. I could just pick a direction and keep walking until I find something, but I took so many twists and turns that I got all mixed up. I could probably mind link Cody, but I don't really want to disturb him if he found his mate. Maybe I could just walk around looking for anything familiar, but I didn't really pay attention to where I was running.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. Okay Grace, think. How can you get out of this mess. You need to get out of these woods and back to the party while avoiding that man.

Nothing. I had nothing. No ideas, zip, zilch, nothing. I let my mind wander back to the man. I really wanted to see his eyes. I bet they are a gorgeous forest green. I smile at the thought of those eyes staring back at me filled with warmth and love.