As I abruptly awaken, a shock of icy water hits my warm skin, abruptly pulling me from my dream world. Lifting my head, I spot my mischievous friend Bailey grinning and holding a now half-empty bucket, her laughter echoing. "Hey, slumber bug! It's your last day at the beach, and you decide to sleep through it?" I roll my eyes, exasperated by her cheerful energy. "Alright, I'll dip my toes in, but I won't stay long," I reply, letting out a sigh.
Together, we seize our floaties and walk into the shallow water, linking arms to prevent drifting away. Bailey asks, "Can't wait for tomorrow, huh? I sure am!" For me, though, the thought had been an unwelcome distraction during the entire trip. The beach provided the tranquility I so desperately needed after senior year's chaos.
Upon returning home, I knew I'd have to confront the drama that had engulfed my life in the past three months. Throughout high school, I focused on my team and training, trying to remain invisible. But there was always one troublemaker – my ex, Austin. His father, our pack's Alpha, had sacrificed his life in a battle, leaving Austin's mother, the Luna, to raise him and his sister alone. Now, as Austin reached eligibility for the Alpha position, my concerns grew. He had openly defied my father, the Beta, and continued to watch my every move.
The idea of returning home loomed large, knowing that drama was imminent, like a storm on the horizon.
