The Awakened

by Amanda Carol

  “What’s your name?” he asks.

  “Ciera.”

  “Such a beautiful name for a beautiful woman,” Declan sighs.

  Before anything else can be said, Kora walks over with a tube of thick green paste and a small cup. Ciera doesn’t say another word as she moves out of Kora’s way. Kora removes the gauze with the yellow paste and wipes his wound with a damp cloth that I didn’t even realize she had. Then she applies some of that thick green paste to another piece of gauze and places that on his head before she seals it with medical tape. Ciera grabs the used gauze and throws it away in the trash can. Declan watches her every move.

  “Drink this. It’s not going to taste good, but it’ll help ease the pain and heal that concussion you have,” Kora explains.

  When she hands Declan the small cup, I lean forward to see what’s inside. It’s a blue liquid that looks like Kool-Aid. Abby and I help him sit up as he takes the cup from her. He tosses it back and makes a disgusted face, almost spitting it back out. He doesn’t, thank God. I wasn’t cleaning that up.

  “I don’t know what ass tastes like, but if I had to guess, I imagine that’s exactly what it would taste like,” Declan groans.

  I hear Bennett laugh from behind me and I bite my lip, trying to hide my smile. Leave it to my comedian of a brother to lighten the mood. Kora narrows her dark eyes at Bennett, then waves her hand as if smacking him on the head. I turn just in time to see Bennett’s head fall forward as if he were physically smacked. That’s actually pretty cool and now I wish I had that kind of power. I’d use it on Declan…a lot.

  “Ouch!” Bennett hisses, rubbing his head. “What’d you do that for? Hunter was laughing too!”

  Kora threatens to magically smack him again and Bennett visibly stiffens, holding his hands up. I can’t help the laugh that’s bubbling up in my chest. Everyone turns to me, and I quickly put my hand over my mouth.

  “Alright, everyone out. I will stay and keep an eye on him.” Kora starts to shoo us out. “Hunter, I would advise you tell your father about our new guests. I’m sure he’ll want to know right away.” She glances at me, then at Declan.

  “Yes, ma’am.” Hunter replies, nodding his head.

  He starts heading toward the door and, one by one, we follow him out of the room. Before I get to the door, I turn to Kora. She is putting a blanket over Declan, who is finally asleep.

  “Thank you, Kora. It means a lot to me that you’re taking care of him even though you’ve never met us.”

  “Nonsense, dear. It’s no trouble at all.” She looks at me and her eyes go wide. “Oh, my child. Your neck! You were bitten!” She runs over to her bag again.

  My hand immediately goes to my neck. With everything that’s happened within the past hour, I’ve completely forgotten that I was bitten.

  “Here,” she says, handing me some gauze with the thick yellow paste that she had given Declan. “That should help stop the bleeding and ease some of the pain.” She presses the gauze onto my neck.

  “Thank you,” I mutter, replacing her hand with my own and holding it there.

  She walks over to her medical bag and pulls out some medical tape, then turns back to me and starts to tape the gauze in place.

  “Okay, my dear. Leave that on there for at least an hour. Then you’ll be as good as new.” Kora smiles at me. “Now, run along. Your brother needs his rest. I promise I’ll take good care of him.” She all but shoves me out the door.

  The door shuts as soon as I cross the threshold. Well, okay then.

  I glace around and see Abby standing by the front door. I walk over to her, and she pulls me into a tight hug. We just stand there for a few moments. I’ve missed her so much. I haven’t spoken to her in months. I don’t want to lose anyone else in my life. So, I’ve made sure no one else gets close to my heart. If that meant pushing the people I loved most away to keep them safe, then it was a price I was willing to pay.

  Abby finally pulls back; dark gray eyes meet mine and I give her a reassuring smile.

  “I can’t believe you’re really here,” Abby whispers. Tears are welling up in her eyes as she pulls me back into another tight hug.

  I haven’t seen her since the funeral, which was three years ago. Now I feel like a shitty friend.

  “I’ve missed you too, Abby. I’m sorry I haven’t been in touch in a while…” I trail off, still in her embrace.

  I don’t know what else to say. My old life seems like a whole lifetime ago now.

  “It’s okay. I understand. But I think we need to talk,” she points out, releasing me.

  I nod as she grabs my hand and we walk out the front door. It looks like all hell is about to break loose.

  Hunter and Bennett are standing at the bottom of the steps and some man who has the same jet-black hair as Hunter, only with gray running through it, is standing in front of them. His face is red as he is glares at the two boys.

  “I could understand if this was Bennett, but you…” He points a shaky finger at Hunter. “I expect better from you, son.”

  “Son?” I question out loud.

  All heads and eyes turn to me. I flush. I didn’t mean to say that out loud. I mean, it makes sense that this would be Hunter’s dad. They look alike. His father just looks like an older version of him. My eyes land on Hunter. His expression is blank. Then I look to the man standing in front of him. His face softens slightly, but he still looks pissed. He closes his eyes and pinches the bridge of his nose with his fingers.

  “Hunter, you know there’s a pack law for a reason, son. Humans can’t know about us. It’s too much of a risk, not only for us, but for them as well.” His dad lets out a long breath.

  “I know sir, but please you don’t understand—” Hunter starts to say.

  His dad puts a hand in the air and he shuts his mouth. He lowers his head slightly but still doesn’t break eye contact with his father. For some reason, that doesn’t sit well with me.

  “I don’t need to understand. What’s done is done. You and Bennett are off patrol duty for the next month and starting tomorrow you will be training the others with Knox. And as for the humans, I’ll have Kora make a memory potion once the boy is healed,” his dad finishes, and then he turns to walk away.

  Hold up. Memory potion? Not happening. Not only did they save my life, but also Declan’s. Let’s also not forget that I also helped Hunter in killing that vampire.

  “Excuse me!” I yell, my temper starting to get the best of me.

  I start for the stairs, but Abby tries to pull me back. I shrug her off and stomp my way past Hunter and Bennett. They also try to stop me, but I shrug them off too. I stop right in front of Hunter’s dad. He’s a head taller than me but what the fuck ever. He has no right to mess with my or my brother’s memories. What if it takes away the good memories I have with my parents?

  “First of all, I don’t care who you are or what makes you think that you can take away my memory or Declan’s, but that isn’t happening. Ever. Second, if it weren’t for your son and Bennett, my brother and I would be dead,” I spit. My blood is boiling now, and I use a finger to get my last point across. It’s probably immature, but I don’t give a shit. “And third, what makes you think that Declan and I are just some ordinary humans, huh?” I narrow my eyes at him.

  We are just ordinary humans, but he doesn’t need to know that. He stands a little taller and a low growl rumbles in his chest, trying to threaten me. I never back down from a challenge.

  “I can smell it on you.” He leans forward and takes a sniff. “Although your scent seems to be masked, I know you are, in fact, just a human.” He sneers.

  I don’t move an inch. Before I can snap back at him, in my peripheral vision, I see another person approaching. I narrow my eyes at Hunter’s dad once more, then turn to face the newcomer.

  “Mrs. Thibodaux?” I ask, shocked to see Abby’s mom here. I take a few steps toward her.

  Luna was like a second mom to me. She was always very warm and w
elcoming. Plus, she made the best snickerdoodles ever. Every single time I was over she always had a batch ready for me. And tacos. Can’t forget about the tacos. In fact, she was the first person who I came to for advice as soon as I lost my virginity. It was a practice run for when I finally told my mom. Of course, Luna asked me what my favorite position was and how good it felt. I told her it was only one position, the boring missionary style and a tad painful. Then she went on and on about different positions and the G-spot. Oh, and to always wear protection. It was horrifying but not as horrifying as my Dad finding out. I wasn’t allowed to leave my room for a week until my Mom was able to convince him that I was not a little girl anymore. I was so glad Declan was away at football camp. Otherwise I was sure he’d make fun of me every chance he got.

  “Hello, Aria. It’s good to see you, sweetie.” She approaches me, bringing me into a hug and squeezing tight.

  I’d almost forgotten what it was like to have a warm motherly hug. I return her hug just as tightly. This is familiar, and after the night I had, it’s just what I need. I sag into her embrace. She pulls back and tucks the strands of hair that have fallen out of my ponytail behind my ear.

  “I’m so very sorry for your loss. Debora was one of my best friends.” She gives me a sad smile as she places a hand on my shoulder.

  Her chocolate brown eyes meet mine and fill with unshed tears. All I can do is nod.

  She takes the hint and pulls away, gathering herself together. She squares her shoulders and steps forward, putting herself between me and Hunter’s dad, which is probably a good thing, because I might just punch him in the throat if he brings up wiping our memories again. Abby is now at my side and she takes my hand. I look at my best friend. She gives my hand a light squeeze and we both turn our attention to Luna and Hunter’s dad.

  “Alexander,” Luna says sternly. “This is Aria. I’ve known her since she was a small child. She went to school with my daughter. She and her brother, Declan, are twins.”

  She emphasizes the “twins” part and narrows her brown eyes at Alexander. His eyes go wide and then he nods as if understanding the meaning behind her words. I look between them both and see the silent exchange.

  “Anyone want to fill me in on what’s going on?” I snap. I’m tired, hungry, and in desperate need of a shower.

  Luna and Alexander turn their gazes to me.

  “Don’t worry, my dear. I will explain everything to you later. It will be best to wait until Declan is better, as this involves him as well,” Luna answers firmly.

  I want to demand to know whatever it is that she’s keeping from me now, but I know Luna and it’s either her way or the highway. So I just nod.

  “Alright, it’s been a long night. I suggest everyone get some rest and we will discuss this more tomorrow,” Alexander orders before turning around and walking away.

  “Well, he’s in a mood, isn’t he?” Luna says, talking to no one in particular.

  “Yeah, he’s not happy with us shifting in front of Aria and Declan,” Hunter says, walking up from behind us. “What was that about, Luna?”

  “Nothing for you to worry about tonight. I understand the pack law and the Alpha’s orders. But he needs to lighten up sometimes,” Luna half jokes.

  I freeze as it finally sinks in that I lost my temper on the Alpha.

  “Oh no.” I whisper, putting my hand over my mouth.

  I take a step back, bumping into a hard chest. I stumble as strong hands land on my shoulders to steady me.

  “Whoa, Aria, are you okay?” Hunter whispers softly in my ear.

  I steady myself and turn as he drops his arms.

  “Hunter, I just… Your dad, he’s the Alpha. And I’m sorry. I mean…oh, God!” I stutter. I completely lost my shit toward an Alpha. The Alpha.

  Hunter lets out a low chuckle.

  I narrow my eyes at him. “What’s so funny?”

  “Nothing, Blondie,” Bennett laughs as he comes up next to us. I turn to look at him. “Believe me, it’s all good. You are not the first person to stand up to the Alpha like that. Am I right, Hunt?”

  He nudges Hunter with his elbow. Hunter just rolls his eyes.

  “I’m surprised he didn’t wolf out on you. He hates it when people talk back to him.” Bennett’s face turns serious.

  Oh crap! Crap, crap, crap! Before I start to really freak out, Bennett starts laughing.

  “I’m just kidding! You’re good, bruh,” he says as he tugs on my ponytail.

  I swat his hand away.

  “You’re an ass!” I narrow my eyes at him, and he laughs again. I sigh. “I guess I should probably bake him cookies or something,”

  “That works too. Just make sure they’re chocolate chip cookies. They’re his favorite.” Hunter smiles at me, revealing those dimples.

  “More like they’re your favorite, Hunter,” Abby joins in. “You know, if you want cookies, I’m sure all you have to do is ask. I bet Aria would be happy to bake you some cookies.” She smiles at me as she puts her arm around my shoulders.

  “Oh, really? Aria, will you make me—”

  “No,” I say, cutting him off.

  His face falls slightly. “But I saved your life!”

  “Yeah, and I returned the favor by throwing my dagger at that vamp to distract him long enough for you to kill him. So, I think we’re even.” I smirk.

  “Damn, this girl is sassy.” Bennett laughs, shaking his head.

  Before anyone can say anything else, I glance up and see Ciera approaching us.

  “Hi, guys!” she chirps. She looks at me and hands me a bag. “I brought you some food. I didn’t know what you liked, but I figured you can’t go wrong with a burger and fries.”

  I take it from her willingly as my stomach grumbles in response.

  “Thanks, Ciera. Oh, and hey, I’m sorry about Declan.”

  I grimace, remembering the things he said to her. It makes me wonder how he’s able to seduce women. But, then again, if they were all like Becca…or was it Becky? Whatever her name was. Anyway, I guess whatever he’s doing works. He’s got his work cut out with Ciera though. That is, if he remembers her when he wakes up.

  “Don’t worry about it. It’s nothing I can’t handle. Between working with the kids and helping my Grandma out, I’ve heard much more interesting things.” She shrugs.

  “Kids?”

  “Yeah, I teach the young kids how to handle their elemental magic and how to mix potions. That sort of thing. I also help with basic academic skills. I only teach the basics. There are others here who teach the more advanced stuff,” she explains.

  “Oh, okay. Cool. Anyway, thanks again.” I smile at her.

  “It’s nothing. Well, I’m going to check on Grandma to see if she needs anything before I head back to the cabin.” Ciera waves goodbye and heads back inside the barn.

  “Alright. I’m sure you’re tired, Aria. You can stay with us for now. I’m sure Lydia can have a cabin ready for you and Declan should you choose to stay, which I sincerely hope that you will,” Luna interjects.

  I’m not sure about staying yet. That’s something I should talk to Declan about. However, she’s right. I am exhausted. I need sleep, a shower, and food. But not necessarily in that order.

  “Lydia?” I ask

  “My mom,” Hunter says.

  “Wait. All of our stuff is still at the motel. Declan’s going to want his laptop when he wakes up. It’s his most prized possession.” I roll my eyes.

  Declan’s the smarter twin out of the two of us. Before our parents died, he was working hard to get a football scholarship to go to school to study criminal law. Not that we needed money, but we were always taught to work hard for the things we wanted. Our parents were rich, but they never spoiled us. If I wanted new paints, I had to work for it. When he decided he wanted to learn to play guitar, he had to work for that. We were never handed anything. But after they were killed, we put our dreams on hold.

  “Where were you guys staying?” Hunte
r asks.

  “Motel Six, just right off the highway. Also, we have a car. The keys are in the room.”

  “I think Jasper and Kai are near there tonight. I’ll call them and let them know to grab your car and things and bring them here.” Bennett says, pulling out his phone and stepping away.

  “In the meantime, you can just borrow some of my clothes.” Abby reassures me.

  I just nod. It’ll be like old times. Abby and I are the same size, so we always used to share clothes. She’s the girly one. While I don’t mind dresses and heels, I always opt for skinny jeans, a cute top, and my Converse. If we weren’t on the road so much, I’d have a pair in every color. Abby used to tell me I was the epitome of skater girl fashion.

  “All set. Jasper and Kai are going to do one more sweep through the Quarter, then head over that way.” Bennett says, walking back over and putting his phone back in his pocket. “Hey, Hunt, want to go train for a bit since we are officially off patrol duty? Somebody just had to shift to save a pretty girl.”

  He winks at me. I flush and turn to look over at Hunter.

  “Yeah sure. Let me park my car in my garage and I’ll head back over,” Hunter replies without looking at Bennett. He smirks. “Goodnight, Aria.”

  He takes a few steps back, eyes still locked on mine. Bennett playfully pushes him, breaking our eye contact. He turns and they both start to race off.

  “Hey! Wait!” I yell after them. They both stop, turning toward me. “How will Jasper and Kai get into our room without a key?”

  “Wouldn’t you like to know, Blondie?” Bennett wiggles his brows before turning to run away again.

  Hunter flashes me his dimples before turning on his heel and taking off after him.

  Luna, Abby, and I silently walk down a path that leads to their cabin. The cabins are spaced far enough apart to give the residents privacy. They’re moderately sized too, and some have garages while others don’t. I glance up and take a good look at the lights that are lighting up the path around us. I realize that they aren’t lights at all. They’re more like glowing orbs.