Worth Fighting For

Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Serena's POV

I turned back to the rest of the gentlemen, inquiring about Adam's whereabouts. Their nonchalant shrugs struck me as peculiar, a mysterious air hanging over their demeanour. The sun began its descent as we continued to revel in the game, a day devoid of the usual discomfort caused by its rays. It seemed as if I were finally overcoming my aversion to sunlight.

Observing the surroundings, I noticed that many had departed, leaving behind a few dedicated souls assisting in the tidying of the food tables or small clusters of teenagers engaged in quiet conversations. Throughout the game, I received guidance and tips, finding joy in the victory our team achieved, Adam's absence notwithstanding. An unsettling sensation lingered in my stomach whenever thoughts of him surfaced—a feeling I couldn't quite comprehend.

Over the years, I hadn't interacted much with the boys I played the game with, but today marked a change. Conversations flowed, and I gleaned some insights into their lives. It struck me that I was the only girl playing, prompting a curious inquiry to Dan. He casually remarked that I was the first girl they ever wanted to play with, a statement that elicited an involuntary blush.

Despite the ambiguity surrounding their intentions, I brushed off any concerns, content that I had made friends or, at least, acquaintances. They laughed and talked with me, and for the moment, that was enough. Lost in my musings, I was startled by Alistair, offering an apology for his earlier actions.

Embarrassed, I responded, "Sorry..."

He assured me, and then extended an invitation, "Some of the guys are going out with their mates tonight. If you want, you can come with me as a sort of 'I'm sorry'?" Grateful for the offer, I eagerly accepted, looking forward to the prospect of going out for a change. "Sure," I replied.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we made our way home, traversing the woodsy expanse where our pack resided. The houses formed a semicircle facing the majestic Pack house, a white wooden structure with large windows and a small garden where the children congregated during pack meetings. The atmosphere within the pack was one of tranquillity, devoid of conflict and discord.

Reaching my front door, I fumbled for my key but realized I had left it in my room. A doorbell push brought my mother to the door, a mixing bowl filled with a creamy concoction in hand. Apologizing for my forgetfulness, I sought permission to go out for the evening, explaining my plans to join Alistair for bowling. My mother granted approval, emphasizing my father's protective nature.

Eager to assist, I proposed helping with baking, a joint effort resulting in the creation of delightful chocolate chip cookies—my favourite. Once the cookies were in the oven, I headed upstairs for a quick shower, revelling in the warm and relaxing water. Post-shower, I meticulously attended to my appearance, lightly curling my naturally straight hair and opting for a subtle enhancement of my features with makeup.

I picked out my dark blue flared jeans and an old the shoulder cream jumper. Satisfied with my choice, I descended to find Alistair at the door. A compliment on his car initiated our awkward conversation, and soon, we were on our way to the bowling alley. I kept my hands under my legs to stop myself from fidgeting and showcasing my nerves. 

We chatted casually about the pack, and current teachers we 

Alistair graciously opened the car door, revealing his impressive car—a birthday gift from his seventeenth year. Our journey continued, and soon, the allure of the bowling alley unfolded before us. Adam's chivalry persisted as he ushered me through the entrance.

Inside, the familiar scent of hotdogs and the distinct aroma of competition filled the air. Dan and the others welcomed us, ready to embark on an evening of bowling. As the night progressed, I found myself surrounded by newfound friends, couples departing as the evening waned. Each girl insisted I take their number, proposing future hangouts.

Leaving Alistair, Dan, Jasmine, and Adam engaged in conversation at the attached restaurant, I sat in Alistair's car, contemplating the night. The comfortable silence was abruptly shattered when we encountered an unusual obstacle in the road—a creature with bright hazel eyes resembling a bear. Panic set in as Alistair swerved to avoid it.

The creature, a werewolf, was soon joined by three others, unfamiliar to our pack. The car faced the wrong direction, and the situation escalated when one of them shattered the side window, rendering Alistair unconscious. Filled with terror, I screamed as the menacing wolves closed in.

The werewolf with hazel orbs turned its head toward me, a sinister grin matching his predatory stance. "Little girl..." it growled lowly sending shivers down my spine.

"Get out of the car. We won't kill the boy if you make this easy," it taunted, its voice dripping with ominous promises.

My heart raced, and fear paralyzed me as I reluctantly opened the car door and slowly stood. Everything went dark, my last sight being the werewolves closing in, their menacing forms silhouetted against the night. 

The last thing I heard was the horrid laughter of the one with hazel eyes, echoing through my head.