(SHEILA’S POV)
In my dimly lit hut, the flickering oil lamps cast dancing shadows across the room. The injured stranger lay on my makeshift bed, his brow furrowed with suspicion as his grip secured my arm.
I looked at him with tenderness, devoid of anger or annoyance, understanding all too well the fear and confusion he must have felt waking up in a strange place with someone who could potentially harm him at any moment.
‘He must've been terrified,' I thought, recalling my own experience of waking up in the haven's healer hut for the first time—confused and in great pain, with Elder Willow tending to my wounds. Deeply empathizing with the stranger's plight, my heart went out to him.
"I'm just helping you. You're injured, and I need to dress this wound," I softly said as I met his gaze with sincerity, pointing at the bleeding wound on his leg. It was a big gash on his pale skin, seemingly caused by hitting something sharp as he fell down before. Blood flowed from the wound, running down his body and gathering on the ground. The air smelled strongly of blood.
The stranger hesitated, uncertainty flickering in his eyes. Despite his reluctance, I could see the weakness creeping into his body. With a resigned sigh, he lowered his guard and allowed me to continue patching him up.
"Fine," he said reluctantly, releasing my arm.
I nodded in understanding, my focus unwavering as I tended to Orion's wounds. Carefully undressing him to expose his injured skin, I began my assessment. A deep bruise on his abdomen caught my attention first, its ominous hues of purple and blue hinting at underlying internal trauma. As I worked, I noted another troubling sight—a series of scratches etched angrily across his shoulder blade, their redness indicating a fierce struggle or scrape against a rough surface. I frowned, sadness and worry etched on my face at the severity of his injuries.
Despite momentarily being shaken, I gathered myself and resumed my task with determination. With gentle precision, I cleansed each wound with warm water, using a fresh cloth to ensure thorough removal of any dirt or debris, meticulously preparing the area for treatment.
The stranger watched my every move, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes as he surrendered to my care, his body weary but his trust slowly beginning to grow.
With steady hands, I proceeded to apply a layer of antiseptic salve to the wound, gently massaging it into the surrounding skin to promote healing and prevent infection. In the midst of applying the salve thoroughly to cover the stranger’s injured area, I engaged in conversation, eager to learn more about this man I had assumed fell from the hill higher than the pine woods.
"I..." the stranger trailed off, his voice fading as if lost in a labyrinth of forgotten memories. Slowly, he reached up, his fingers trembling slightly as they brushed against his forehead, a feeble attempt to coax back the elusive fragments of his past. Then, as if struck by a bolt of lightning, a gasp escaped his lips, his features contorting with the sudden onslaught of pain. Gritting his teeth in frustration, anger bubbled up from within, simmering just beneath the surface of his controlled exterior.
His reaction prompted me to halt my application of the salve. With gentle concern, I reached out and touched his hand, which was clenched tightly against his forehead, silently urging him to release the tension gripping him.
In response, he let out a frustrated growl. "I can't remember..." he muttered, his voice trailing off as his gaze drifted upwards to the ceiling. I couldn't help but speculate that if he possessed more strength in that moment, he might have thrashed upon the makeshift bed—breaking one of its wooden legs or two.
I bit my lip, a pang of regret coursing through me as I realized the futility of expecting coherent answers from an injured man in his current state.
"I'm sorry," I apologized earnestly, my voice laced with sincerity. "I was being stupid. Please, don't force yourself. Just breathe."
To my surprise, the man acquiesced to my instructions without resistance, and soon a sense of calm settled over him.
I then applied the last remaining salve to his injuries before wiping my hands clean with a cloth. As I ensured that all of his wounds had been treated, a sudden realization dawned on me. I recalled the name the man had mentioned earlier in the woods.
"Oh!" I exclaimed, my eyes widening with realization. "You did tell me your name before. It was Orion, if I'm not mistaken!"
"Orion," the man muttered, his eyes widening in surprise as a flicker of recognition crossed his face.
I nodded, feeling a smile slowly creep up behind my veil. I hummed in agreement before adding, “That fang pendant you have, it’s the most stunning blue I’ve ever seen, incredibly clear too. Seems like it means a lot to you before, doesn't it?”
I nodded enthusiastically as I proceeded to gather my already prepared roll of sterile cloth strips. With practiced hands, I began to wrap the wound on his legs, applying just the right amount of pressure to provide support and protection without causing discomfort.
I watch as the man, his fingers tracing the lines of his sapphire fang pendant, seems lost in thought. His lips curl into a small smile as he repeats the name to himself, savoring it like a newfound treasure. "Orion… yeah… I think that's my name. I like it."
My own excitement bubbles up inside me, mirrored in my smile as I speak. "Well then, Orion, I'll help you sit up because I need to dress your wound."
Orion nodded, accepting my support as he sat up. Despite the stinging sensations evident in his slightly scrunched face, he didn't really voice any complaints. Instead, he stared at me in awe as I continued to gently wrap his wound.
"Sheila, was it?" Orion's soft voice caught my attention, prompting me to perk up. I responded with acknowledging hums, confirming my identity.
"Thank you for taking care of me," Orion expressed his gratitude, his words carrying a sincere promise, "I'll repay you one day, I promise."
My smile widened, my heart warmed by Orion's gratitude. "No worries, Orion," I replied warmly, my hands deftly securing the bandage around his upper torso. I made sure it was enough to be proper support to his wound but not too tight to restrict circulation during the healing process. "I'm just glad I could help," I added, my tone filled with sincerity.
(ORION’S POV)Under Sheila's attentive care for about twenty-two nights, I steadily regained my strength, with most injuries healing significantly. Seven nights ago, I heavily relied on a crutch for walking support, but now, as I walked to the hut's entrance, I stood more steadily on my own. Pausing at the door, I glanced back at Sheila who was seated on the bed's edge, her smile evident even behind a veil, radiating joy at my progress.A surge of warmth filled my chest as Sheila's hands clapped together in praise. Her enthusiastic words reached me like a gentle breeze, lifting my spirits. "It's incredible how quickly you're recovering, Orion," she exclaimed, her genuine amazement evident in every syllable. "You must have been quite the warrior back in your pack," she admired.In the subdued lighting of the hut, my blush remained hidden, a silent testament to my embarrassment. I hadn't anticipated Sheila's praise, and the unexpected compliment left me feeling pleasantly flustered.Try
(ORION’S POV)I walked slowly down the path, my progress impeded by the crutch I leaned on for support. The fang-shaped sapphire around my neck shifted with each step, a constant reminder of both my strength and my vulnerability. Disappointment weighed heavily upon me, dragging down my posture and clouding my thoughts. Sheila’s rejection echoed relentlessly in my mind, each recurrence deepening the sting of defeat.In the middle of deep thoughts, Willowhart's private quarters came into my view, nestled among the vibrant foliage next to the bustling healer hut. Her serene presence was there, in the middle of fragrant herbs and blooming flowers. It was a stark contrast to my inner turmoil.Pausing in her gardening, Willowhart glanced up, her perceptive gaze catching my unrest immediately. "Young alpha?" she murmured softly, concern etched into her gentle features. "You seem troubled." Her eyes scanned the area, noticing the absence of her protege. "Where's Sheila?" she inquired, her voi
(SHEILA’S POV)With a sudden burst of energy, I swung the door to my humble abode open, the creaking hinges barely audible over the pounding of my heart. With trembling hands, I quickly pulled the door shut behind me, the wood meeting with a soft thud as I slid the locking mechanism into place. The room fell into an eerie silence, the finality of my actions echoing in the stillness around me.As the weight of the world crashed down on my frail shoulders, the dam holding back my tears shattered, unleashing the surge of emotion that was lying dormant from within. I leaned heavily against the door, my body sliding down its surface in tandem with my tears. With each passing moment, the pain that had taken residence in my heart flowed out relentlessly, unstoppable. In that vulnerable moment, I knew I had come undone—Orion had seen my horrendous face.However, just as despair threatened to consume me, my anguish was abruptly interrupted by the sound of Orion's approaching footsteps. Summoni
(SHEILA’S POV)Empathy gripped my resolve to waver as I looked at Orion who stood before me with a mix of emotions showing on his face. His hurt and disbelief were palpable, a stark contrast to the determined resilience I knew him for. However, I couldn't afford to waver despite the weight of his emotions pressing against me. Not now, when the stakes were so high.Orion's clenched fist mirrored the intensity of his emotions. His eyes, though clouded with hurt, glimmered with an unwavering determination that seemed to grow stronger with each passing moment. This resolve was characteristically Orion—surrender was never an option for him, especially when confronted with a challenge.Orion's touch was gentle as he reached out for my hand, his eyes softening as they met mine. "Sheila, listen," he started, his voice carrying warmth and affection, "I get where you're coming from, and I respect your decision. I'm okay with waiting for you, no matter how long it takes. If you do find your mat
(SHEILA’S POV)I slowly stirred awake, the faint scent of pinewood and herbs lingering in the air greeting my senses before anything else. I noticed that the room was still dimly lit by the early morning light seeping through the window curtains, casting a soft glow that danced across the walls. My eyes soon adjusted to the ceiling, which was in stark contrast to the simplicity of my own hut. The intricate carvings of the moon goddess symbols, mystical runes, and the hanging woven vines and flowers caught my attention. I recalled that I slept in my mentor's private quarters per the elderly lady's request—‘A measure to ensure my awakening safety,’ said Willowhart a few nights prior."Today's finally my birthday," I thought as I stretched my arms upwards. Though my eyes were heavy with sleep, the anticipation of my impending wolf awakening pulsed through my veins, adding a subtle edge to the drowsy haze enveloping my mind.I yawned, slowly pulling myself up, the remnants of sleep still
(SHEILA’S POV)As we worked on repairing the storm-damaged southern part of the haven's outer wall, I was focused on the task at hand, hammering away with Orion and the two Silverthornians by my side. The air was filled with the scent of fresh wood and sweat, but suddenly, amidst it all, another fragrance wafted to me. Lilac and rose, intermingled with the earthy essence that was unmistakably the signature scent of our haven's chief.I paused, lifting my head to locate the source of this unexpected scent. There, before me, stood a woman with flowing chestnut hair that stirred memories of our chief. Her amber eyes held a familiar intensity, and her jawline bore a graceful strength that echoed that of the figure I had been searching for."Orion! I finally found you!" The words rang out, drawing more of my attention as the chestnut-haired woman strode confidently towards Orion.As the daughter of the chief, Nova's presence often drew the attention of the haven's inhabitants, but Orion re
(SHEILA’S POV)I stood next to my herb cabinet, where I had meticulously stored my home-made concoctions. Turning my face towards the window, I observed the darkening sky outside. An audible sigh escaped my lips, signaling to me that the moment I had been anticipating had finally arrived.I reached for the small container of salve I had prepared, tucked away in the cabinet. Upon unscrewing the cap, a potent aroma reminiscent of damp earth filled the air. Carefully, I dipped my fingers into the balm, applying it to the scent glands located on each side of my neck, just below the base of my jawbones, as well as to my wrists. I knew Orion possessed a keener sense of smell than my own, so I took extra care to mask my scent while watching him from a distance, ensuring he wouldn't detect my presence.Fixing my veil and adjusting my cloak, I ensured they would withstand the cool breeze of the night as I stepped out of my hut. The sounds of the forest surrounded me, a familiar comfort. With d
(SHEILA’S POV)"Move, Orion," I demanded calmly, hiding my frustration and desperation behind a mask of composure.Orion stood still in his spot, his tired gaze locked with mine. He seemed adamant about not moving, seeking clarification for my words. "You said about ‘holding me back’, for what exactly?" Orion questioned, his tone tinged with exasperation. "You hold me back for nothing, Sheila."I opened my mouth to answer, but I couldn’t rebut with anything. His words hit me like a blow, and for a moment, I faltered. Did I truly hold him back for nothing? In a millisecond, I could feel Orion’s sincerity, yet the very next millisecond, I pondered about it. There was this nagging feeling that forcefully pulled my attention towards distrust. A reminder of Orion staying out of a sense of obligation, that he felt sorry for my fragile state of mind and was merely trying to appease his guilt, kept popping up.My mind spiraled back to my earlier encounter with Nova. The dimly lit room seemed