I let out a sigh. "My mother is acting like this strange girl is her own daughter, as if she's never seen her before," I mock, not understanding her behavior. Carmen scolds me with a well-placed heel hit to the side of my head, to which I complain and retaliate by tossing the heel away. In return, she gives me a playful smack on the back of my head.
"Carter!" I protest, seeking support from my friend. He simply shrugs, saying, "What? You upset her in the first place."
"But she's your mate," I point out.
"Exactly, which is why I shouldn't upset her," he replies with a goofy grin, sending a kiss to his mate as the two girls leave the room.
As I lie back, thoughts swirling in my mind, I realize I might have to make an appearance at the party for my mother's sake. The return of the girl after eleven years is quite remarkable. I had assumed she was long gone, but fate seems to have favored her. I find myself with many questions about her return, but I'll have to wait until the party starts to find out more.
Riley's POV
I was jolted upright as vivid images flooded my mind, unlocking memories from eleven years ago. My hand instinctively reached for my forehead, feeling a slight throbbing sensation. As I glanced around, I realized I was in my old room, the sight of a twelve-year-old girl's space making my heart ache. I wasn't that innocent little girl anymore, and the realization hit me hard.
Before me sat my entire family, with my dad and mom by the foot of the bed, and my three older brothers scattered around. Their eyes were filled with various emotions, and I could sense my wolf feeling overwhelmed with emotions as well. It was strange; with the memories rushing back, it felt like everything had happened just yesterday, but their appearances showed that years had indeed passed.
Gray hairs had appeared in my father's hair and beard, and wrinkles marked his face. Although he seemed softer, he appeared smaller in my eyes now that I had grown taller. My mother looked mostly the same, but the years had taken a toll, leaving her looking more tired with wrinkles around her eyes.
My brothers, on the other hand, had transformed into matured, muscular men. Their faces had sharpened, and I couldn't help but be surprised by the sight of them. Their eyes, once distant and indifferent towards me, now showed a longing to hug and hold me close. It was something I had always yearned for, to feel the love of my family once again.
"Mom," I whimpered, tears streaming down my face. My mother's response was immediate; she rushed to me, and we both embraced tightly, tears flowing freely. My dad soon joined, holding my face gently as he expressed his apologies for my disappearance, blaming himself for the incident.
Trying to ease his guilt, I reassured him that it wasn't his fault, and that I had wanted to go for a run that night anyway. My brothers followed, hugging me in turns, a sight I never thought I'd experience.
We spent a long time in each other's arms, basking in the joy of being reunited as a family. Later, the Queen, who had become my mother's close friend after the incident, entered the room. Surprisingly, she greeted me warmly, hugging me tightly, and I found comfort in her embrace.
Moving to the living room, I shared my experiences after waking up that night. My family was speechless and filled with remorse for not finding me sooner. However, I didn't want anyone to feel guilty, as I cherished the time I spent with my adoptive parents, Thomas and Meggan Dyson, who had taken care of me all those years.
Despite the mixed emotions, the Queen planned a celebration at the palace to mark my return. Grateful, I accepted, feeling somewhat uncomfortable about addressing her as Ellie, but I was determined not to offend the Queen.
I stood before a tall mirror, completely mesmerized by my reflection. It may sound vain, but I had never felt so beautiful. I recalled the last time I wore a gown was for my graduation party, but it couldn't compare to the elegance of the one I had on now. I felt almost regal, fulfilling the childhood dream of being a princess, though the prince charming was absent.
The Queen had arranged for someone to bring a selection of gowns for me to choose from. After finally making my choice, two women arrived to style my hair and do my makeup. We spent a couple of hours deciding on the perfect look, and while it was a bit tiring, I refrained from complaining in front of the Queen, who had been so kind to me. She seemed like my fairy godmother, though one with expensive tastes.
Eventually, I was fully ready and set to be led to the palace. My blond hair was styled in a braided bun with shimmering decorations, while the rest cascaded down my back in soft waves. I opted for makeup that enhanced my natural features, and I couldn't help but admire how stunning I looked. The golden hues around my eyes, the nude lip color, and perfectly drawn eyeliner made me feel like a true goddess. I couldn't remember the last time I felt this glamorous and confident.
The gown I chose was a breathtaking green that complemented my hazel eyes. It featured a V-neck and an open back, with a flowing skirt that brushed the floor. The dress sparkled under the light, making me feel like I was stepping into a fairytale. I spun around, enjoying the sensation of the gown against my legs, and my golden heels completed the enchanting look.
Just as I reveled in my appearance, my brother Cole knocked on the door and entered. He seemed momentarily taken aback, a reminder that the last time he saw me, I was still a child. But I couldn't resist teasing him and thanked him for the compliment. As we made our way outside, we were greeted by a limousine, which was a first for me.
I asked about our parents, and Dylan explained they were at the palace assisting the Queen with some last-minute preparations. During the ride, my brothers chatted nonstop, keeping my nerves at bay, and I learned that they all had found their mates. I was touched that they wanted to spend this special day with me, but I insisted they invite their mates as well.
When we arrived at the palace, I was awestruck by its grandeur. It was massive, with towering height and intricate architecture, surpassing even the Beckenham palace in its dreamlike and regal appearance.
Apologies to the Beckenham palace, but this was something entirely other-worldly.
I walk through the main hall flanked by Noah and Dylan on either side, while Cole stayed behind, waiting for their mates. Mates... the idea made me wonder if I would ever find mine. Lost in thought, I barely have time to take in the surroundings as my brothers lead me down the stairs towards the open door.
Before I can fully take in the grand ballroom, my parents approach to greet me. The multitude of eyes on me makes me uneasy; this "small party" seems anything but small, and I feel out of place amidst so many strangers.
My mom embraces me, her affectionate hug feeling awkward under the scrutiny. My dad also expresses pride in me, but their attention only intensifies my unease. The Queen joins us, praising my appearance, and soon I find myself introduced to various curious strangers eager to know about my time in the human world.
After an hour of socializing, I excuse myself to rejoin my brothers, who are now with their beautiful she-wolf mates. The conversation shifts to rumors about the prince and his potential mate, but I find myself disinterested, feeling overwhelmed by the crowd and longing for peace and quiet.
I step outside, sighing with relief as the cool breeze hits me. I walk deeper into the garden until I'm out of sight and strip out of my gown, shifting into my wolf form. I run aimlessly through the forest, seeking solace and distraction. My wolf is energized, and I let myself be consumed by the feeling of freedom and release.
Suddenly, I hear a different kind of howl, strong and powerful. My instincts are drawn to it, and I cautiously approach the source. As I do, I come face to face with a majestic lycan, captivating me with his green eyes.
The scent of earth, citrus, and freshness envelops me, and I'm enthralled. He comes towards me, and I can't help but be drawn to him. His touch, his presence, everything about him feels right.
He kneels before me, his hands holding my face, and I can't resist the pleasure of his touch. My wolf is purring, feeling an overwhelming connection with him. We nuzzle and sniff each other, reveling in the intoxicating scent of our bond.
He pulls back to meet my gaze and growls one word: "Mine."
The feeling of belonging floods me, and I know this is something extraordinary. I don't want it to end. This connection feels like destiny, like finding the missing piece of myself. He's the one I've been waiting for, and I can't deny it any longer.
As we stand there, a newfound understanding settles between us. We are mates, meant to be together, and nothing will ever be the same again.
