Chapter 61
Rowan
T he first light of dawn barely touches the horizon as I slip quietly out of the house. The air is crisp, carrying the earthy scent of dew-kissed grass and the promise of a new day. I move with purpose, my footsteps soft on the dew-covered grass as I make my way down the familiar path leading into the heart of Millbrook.
The town is still wrapped in the embrace of early morning quietude. Streetlights cast a gentle glow on the empty sidewalks, and the only sounds are the occasional rustle of leaves and the distant call of a bird greeting the dawn. My breath forms small clouds in the cool air as I walk, my senses heightened by the solitude and the serenity of the moment.
I pass by the quaint shops lining the main street, their windows dark and still, awaiting the bustle of the day ahead. The familiar sights of Millbrook, bathed in the soft hues of early morning light, evoke a sense of calm and belonging.
As I approach Babette's Kitchen, the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked goods begins to mingle with the crisp morning air. The café's windows are softly lit, a beacon of warmth and comfort in the quiet town. I smile at myself, pleased with the surprise I'm planning for the pack.
I push open the door to Babette’s Kitchen, the familiar chime of the bell greeting me. The warmth and rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods envelop me instantly. It's just after 6:30 AM, and the café is already alive with the soft hum of morning activity.
I settle onto the stool at the end of the counter, the polished wood cool beneath my fingertips. The menu in front of me is a delightful array of options, each more inviting than the last. From the hearty French Toast with local maple syrup to the savory Frittata of the Day, the choices are abundant. Today isn't about my usual preferences; it's about selecting the perfect dishes to surprise the pack.
As I peruse the menu, the waitress approaches with a warm smile. "Good morning! What can I get you today?"
I glance up, returning her smile. "Hi there. I'll start with a coffee, please. Black."
“I’ll be back in two shakes.”
She turns and leaves a smile on her face. I even hear her humming as she heads toward the coffee pot. She really is back in two shakes with a steaming pot of coffee and a fresh mug. After filling it she asks for my order and I tell her I need a few minutes and that I’ll be placing a to-go order.
I take a deep breath, inhaling the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee that mingles with the scent of warm pastries. As I sip the hot beverage, I feel a profound sense of gratitude wash over me. The simple pleasure of this moment, a quiet morning in my favorite café, is a testament to how fortunate I am.
Reflecting on the journey that led me here, I am reminded of the challenges and triumphs that have shaped my path. Each experience has been a stepping stone, bringing me closer to this sense of peace and contentment. I feel truly blessed to have found a place where I belong, surrounded by people who understand and accept me.
My thoughts drift to the pack. Despite our differences and the complexities of our lives, we have created a family bound by love and mutual respect. I am thankful for their unwavering support and the unique bond we share. It's a rare gift to find such connection, and I don't take it for granted.
As I continue to sip my coffee, I feel a deep appreciation for the life I've built and the people who enrich it. Today is a reminder to cherish these moments and to never lose sight of the blessings that surround me.
When the waitress comes back, I order an insane amount of food. The guys will be hungry, and I want to make sure there’s enough. Laurant can eat enough for three people. I’ve seen him scarf two large pizzas by himself.
While I’m waiting, I check my notifications on ClipStream. As always, it’s buzzing. A few notifications catch my eye immediately.
" You and your pack are goals. So much love for you all!"
"How do you manage such a big pack? Teach me your ways!"
"Xavier is ?????? . Just saying."
A smile tugs at my lips, warmed by the support from my followers. But then, a direct message from an unknown account catches my eye. The message is succinct, its brevity sending a chill down my spine.
"You think you're safe. You're not."
My heart races as I quickly check the account details, it's a new profile with no posts or followers. My instincts scream that this isn't just a random message.
I take a deep breath, pushing aside the unease settling in my stomach. Focusing on the positive, I reply to a few messages, thanking my followers for their unwavering support. Sliding my phone back into my pocket, I turn toward the café entrance, ready to pick up the breakfast order and bring a little joy to my pack this morning.
As I step out of Babette's Kitchen, the warmth from the café contrasts with the cool morning air. Balancing the bag of pastries, I begin the short walk back home, eager to surprise the pack.
Suddenly, a dark-colored van pulls up beside me. Two men dressed in black from head to toe with balaclavas pulled over their faces lunge at me. Before I can react, one grabs my arm while the other clamps a hand over my mouth, dragging me toward the van. Panic surges through me, but their grip is unyielding, and the world tilts as they try to force me inside.
A flicker of hope ignites our pack's bond. They'll know something's wrong.