16. Chapter 16

Chapter 16

Building Trust

Lila

I bolt upright in bed, my heart pounding as the vivid images of my nightmare fade away. The sight of my beloved food truck engulfed in flames, with Gio's sneering face looming over the destruction, lingers in my mind. I take a deep breath, trying to calm myself, but the intensity of my new wolf senses overwhelms me.

The soft rustling of the sheets beneath me sounds like a roaring cascade, and the faint scent of pine and earth from the open window is almost suffocating in its potency. My thoughts race as I try to process the sensory overload, my mind struggling to reconcile my human understanding with my newfound werewolf instincts.

The door creaks open, and Axel enters the room, his presence both soothing and intensifying the chaos within me. His scent, a heady mix of cedar and wild musk, envelops me, and I find myself simultaneously comforted and on edge.

"Lila, are you alright?" Axel asks, his voice low and gentle as he approaches the bed.

I nod, not trusting my voice to remain steady. As Axel sits beside me, his warmth radiating through the thin fabric of my shirt, my phone buzzes on the nightstand. I reach for it, my hands trembling slightly as I see Sophie's name on the screen.

"Hey, Soph," I answer, trying to keep my tone light.

"Lila, I just wanted to give you an update on the truck situation," Sophie says, her voice heavy with concern. "The police came by, but they haven't found any leads yet on who might have set the fire."

My heart clenches at the news, a mix of anger and frustration welling up inside me. Axel and I know that Gio was behind the attack, but we can't reveal that to the police or Sophie without exposing our world.

"I see," I manage to say, my voice strained. "Thanks for letting me know, Soph. I appreciate you handling things while I'm..."

"Away. Of course, Lila. You just focus on getting better. I'm here if you need anything, okay?" Sophie finishes my sentence, her tone laced with worry.

"I know. Thanks, Soph. I'll call you soon," I promise, fighting back the urge to confide in her about everything that's happened.

As I end the call, Axel gently takes the phone from my hand, setting it back on the nightstand. He turns to me, his eyes filled with understanding and a simmering rage that mirrors my own.

"I hate lying to her," I whisper, my voice tight with emotion. "Sophie's my best friend, and I feel like I'm betraying her trust by keeping all of this from her."

Axel pulls me into his arms, his embrace a sanctuary from the turmoil raging inside me. "I know it's hard, Lila," he murmurs, his voice a soothing rumble against my ear. "But we have to protect our secret, and that means keeping Sophie and the police in the dark about Gio's involvement."

I nod against his chest, knowing he's right but hating the situation all the same. "I just want to make him pay for what he's done," I growl, my wolf stirring within me, eager for vengeance.

"And we will," Axel promises, his tone hardening with resolve. "But we have to be smart about it. We can't let our anger cloud our judgment and risk exposing our world in the process."

He pulls back slightly, cupping my face in his hands as he looks into my eyes. "Right now, let's focus on getting you comfortable with your new abilities. It's time for your training to start. Once you've got a handle on your wolf, we'll work on finding a way to bring Gio to justice without revealing our secret."

I take a deep breath, drawing strength from his unwavering support and determination. "Okay," I agree, my voice growing steadier. "I'm ready. Teach me how to control this new part of myself, so I can fight for what's mine."

Axel smiles, a glint of pride and affection in his eyes. "That's my girl. Get dressed, and we'll head out to the training grounds. By the time I'm done with you, you'll be the fiercest, most in-control werewolf this pack has ever seen."

I take a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves as Axel leads me into the forest clearing near his cabin. The sun-dappled leaves and earthy scent of the woods feel more vivid than ever before, my newly heightened senses absorbing every detail. As we approach the group waiting for us, I recognize some familiar faces from the pack meeting.

Axel introduces me to each member: Ethan, his loyal beta; Elena, the fierce tracker and intimidating enforcer; Kate, Axel's sister and a skilled tracker; and Finn, the energetic young wolf. I feel a mix of excitement and nervousness as I greet them, my wolf stirring within me, eager to connect with her new pack.

The pack members demonstrate basic shifting techniques, their bodies flowing seamlessly from human to wolf and back again. I watch in awe, trying to memorize the way they embrace the change, their movements fluid and natural.

When it's my turn to try, I struggle to find the balance between my human consciousness and my wolf instincts. It's like trying to control a wild animal inside me, and I feel frustration building as I fail to shift.

Don't fight it, Lila, my wolf whispers in my mind. Embrace the change. Let go of your human thoughts and let my instinct guide you.

Axel steps in, his presence calming and reassuring. "Lila, don't fight it," he says softly, his hand resting on my shoulder. "Your wolf is a part of you now. Embrace her, and let her guide you."

I take a deep breath, trying to relax and follow their advice. It's not that easy, I mutter under my breath. I feel like I'm losing control.

I close my eyes, focusing on the thrumming energy coursing through my veins.

My wolf chuckles softly. You're not losing control, you're gaining a new form of it. Trust me, trust yourself. We are one, and together we can do this.

With my eyes still closed, focusing on the sensation of my wolf's presence within me. Slowly, I feel the shift begin, my body transforming as fur ripples across my skin and my senses sharpen. When I open my eyes, the world looks different, sharper and more vibrant.

You did it! my wolf exclaims with pride. I knew you could. Now, let's run together and feel the wind in our fur.

I feel the power and agility of my wolf form, my muscles coiled and ready to spring into action. Axel smiles at me, his own wolf eyes glinting with pride and affection.

I'm still adjusting to my new wolf senses when a sudden shift in the air sets my instincts on high alert. The scent of unfamiliar werewolves, tinged with aggression and malice, fills my nostrils. My wolf surges to the surface, a growl rumbling in my chest as I sense the impending danger.

Axel immediately takes charge, his stance shifting to one of protective authority.

Rogues! he shouts, positioning himself between me and the approaching threat.

Ethan, Elena, flank them on the right. Kate, Finn, go left. Lila, stay close to me.

Three rogue werewolves burst into the clearing, their eyes glowing with feral intensity. Fear grips me, but my wolf refuses to cower. She pushes against my human instincts, urging me to stand my ground and fight alongside my pack.

As the pack members engage the rogues, I struggle to remember my training. My wolf's aggressive impulses threaten to overwhelm me, but Axel's presence at my side helps me focus. We face off against the rogue leader, a massive grey wolf with scars crisscrossing his muzzle.

Axel lunges forward, his teeth snapping at the rogue's flank. I circle around, seeking an opening to strike. My wolf guides my movements, her instincts melding with my human strategic thinking. I feint to the left, drawing the rogue's attention, then dart in to sink my teeth into his hind leg.

The rogue yelps in pain, turning to face me with a snarl. Axel takes advantage of the distraction, clamping his jaws around the rogue's throat. As they grapple, I catch a scent on the wind that sends a chill down my spine. It's familiar, but out of place among the rogues' scents.

My wolf becomes fiercely protective, her hackles rising as she scans the clearing for the source of the scent. I try to focus on the battle at hand, but the nagging familiarity of the scent tugs at my mind.

The scent of Gio's cologne hits me like a slap in the face, and my head snaps around, searching for the source. There, at the edge of the clearing, I spot him watching the battle with a smug expression. Shock courses through me, quickly replaced by a burning anger as the pieces fall into place.

Gio brought the rogues here.

My wolf surges to the forefront, her rage mirroring my own. Monster! she snarls in my mind, urging me to act. I catch Ethan's eye and jerk my head towards Gio. Understanding dawns on his face, and we both take off after Gio without hesitation.

Gio's eyes widen as he realizes he's been spotted. He turns and flees, crashing through the underbrush towards the distant sound of a road. Ethan and I push ourselves to the limit, our paws pounding against the forest floor as we give chase.

Branches whip at my face, but I barely feel them, my focus entirely on catching Gio. The scent of his fear mingles with the stench of his cologne, spurring me on. We burst out of the treeline just in time to see Gio scrambling into a hidden car.

My lungs burn as Ethan and I throw ourselves forward in one last desperate attempt to catch Gio before he reaches his getaway vehicle. Snapping jaws and flailing claws come so close but fall just short as the car door slams shut. The engine's roar is like a mocking laugh in my ears.

The taste of bitter frustration coats my tongue as Gio's taillights disappear into the distance. Ethan and I exchange a glance, our wolf eyes gleaming with shared determination. Without a word, we turn and lope back towards the pack, our paws padding silently on the forest floor.

As we run, I feel the now-familiar tingle of the pack bond in my mind. Ethan's thoughts brush against mine, clear and focused.

We need to regroup with the others, Ethan's voice echoes in my head. Axel needs to know what happened.

I send back a wave of agreement, still marveling at this new form of communication. Being a newly turned wolf, the pack bond feels both exhilarating and slightly overwhelming.

You're doing well, Lila, Ethan adds, sensing my mix of emotions. Just stay close.

We slow as we approach the clearing where we left the others. The scent of our packmates grows stronger, mingled with the sharp tang of blood and the lingering traces of fear and adrenaline.

We should shift back, Ethan projects to me, gesturing with his muzzle towards a cluster of bushes. You can use those for privacy. I'll go over there.

Grateful for his consideration, I nod and move behind the thick foliage. Once hidden from view, I focus inward, willing my body to return to its human form. The familiar sensations wash over me - bones reshaping, fur receding, claws retracting. It's still a strange, almost painful process, but I'm slowly getting used to it.

As the shift completes, I quickly pull on the clothes we'd stashed earlier, my hands shaking slightly from the residual adrenaline and the lingering newness of the transformation.

"I'm ready," I call softly, stepping out from behind the bushes.

Ethan emerges from his own hiding spot, fully dressed and alert. "Let's go," he says, his tone respectful but urgent. "Axel will want our report."

Together, we step into the clearing. The cloying metallic tang of spilled blood accosts my nose, much stronger now in my human form. Three broken rogue bodies lie strewn across the leaf litter like discarded rag dolls. I spot Kate, Finn, and Elena tending to their wounds, but I'm relieved to see the gashes already knitting closed. My heart feels rubbed raw with a mix of anger, confusion, and sorrow as the reality of what just happened sinks in.

Axel looks up as we approach, his expression grim. "I don't ever want to turn around and find that you have ran off like that again, Lila. What happened? "

I take a deep breath, trying to steady my racing heart. "Gio was here, watching the battle. He fled when we spotted him. Ethan and I chased him, but he got away in a car."

The pack members exchange concerned glances, murmuring amongst themselves. Axel's brow furrows, and I can see the wheels turning in his mind as he processes this information.

"What could he possibly gain by sending rogues our way?" he says, his voice low and serious. "If Gio is going to continue sending rogues, we need to stop him before he causes pack members to die."

The others nod in agreement, their faces set with determination. Despite the gravity of the situation, I feel a swell of pride in my chest as I realize that I'm truly becoming a part of this pack now, united in our shared purpose.

Axel turns to me, his eyes softening slightly. "You did well today, Lila. Both in the battle and in spotting Gio. Your instincts are sharp, and you're learning to trust your wolf."

I manage a small smile, but guilt gnaws at the pit of my stomach. If it wasn't for my past with Gio, would the pack be in this danger now? I can't shake the feeling that I'm somehow responsible for the threat we face.

Once back at the cabin, I sink into the couch, my thoughts spinning with a mix of questions and uncertainties. Axel sits beside me, his presence steady and reassuring.

"I know what you're thinking," he says softly, taking my hand in his. "But this isn't your fault, Lila. Gio made his own choices, and we'll face the consequences together, as a pack."

I lean into his touch, drawing strength from his unwavering support. My wolf stirs within me, her protective instincts towards the pack growing stronger with each passing moment.

"Come with me," Axel says as he pulls me from the couch.

"Where are we going?"

"You'll see." his face opens up with a wide grin.

As we enter the kitchen, my eyes widen in surprise at the sight before me. The counters are neatly arranged with all the ingredients and tools needed for a cooking lesson, and the warm scent of garlic and herbs fills the air. Axel stands beside me, a nervous but hopeful smile on his face.

"I thought you might like a little break from everything that's been going on," he says softly, gesturing to the setup. "And I was hoping you could teach me how to make pizza, like the ones from your food truck."

A swell of emotion rises in my chest, a mix of gratitude, affection, and a deep sense of belonging. Axel's thoughtful gesture touches me deeply, and I can feel my wolf stirring within me, content and pleased with our mate's efforts.

"Axel, this is amazing," I breathe, turning to face him. "I would love to teach you how to make pizza. It's one of my favorite things in the world, and I'm so excited to share it with you."

Axel's smile widens, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm and a hint of relief, as if he had been nervous about my reaction. We begin by mixing the dough, my hands gently guiding his as we knead the soft, elastic mixture together. The sensation of his strong hands beneath mine sends a pleasant tingle up my arms.

"You've got a knack for this," I tease, giving him a playful nudge with my elbow. "Maybe you should consider a career change."

Axel laughs, the sound warm and carefree. "I think I'll stick to health inspecting for now," he jokes back. "But who knows, maybe I'll open a pizza shop one day."

As we work, our wolves seem to dance together, their joy and contentment mingling in the shared experience. The kitchen fills with our laughter and the delicious aroma of the pizza taking shape.

When it comes time to toss the dough, Axel insists on trying it himself. "Stand back, Lila. I've got this," he declares with a confident grin.

I raise an eyebrow, stepping aside. "Alright, hotshot. Let's see what you've got."

"I've seen this done many times. It's easy watch."

He throws the dough into the air with a dramatic flourish, only to have it land directly on his head, draping over his face like a comical veil. I can't help but burst out laughing at the sight of the serious health inspector wearing a pizza dough mask.

Axel stands there for a moment, the dough slowly sliding down his face, revealing a mix of embarrassment and amusement in his eyes.

"Well, that didn't go as planned," he chuckles, peeling the dough off his head, revealing a sheepish smile.

I can't help but burst into laughter at the sight, my sides aching as I double over.

"Okay, maybe I don't got this," he admits, chuckling at his own mishap.

I take some dough from the bowl, still giggling. "Here, let me show you," I offer. "It's all in the wrist." I toss the dough expertly, sending it spinning gracefully before catching it with a flourish.

I guide Axel's hands, helping him form the dough into a perfect circle. "The key is to use your fingertips, not your palms," I explain, demonstrating the technique. "And when you toss it, give it a little spin for extra flair."

Axel watches intently as I demonstrate the proper technique, his eyes following my every move. When it's his turn to try again, he mimics my actions with determined focus, and this time, the dough sails smoothly through the air before landing back in his hands.

"I did it!" he exclaims, a triumphant grin spreading across his face.

"See? I knew you could do it," I say, giving him a playful nudge. "With a little practice, you'll be a pizza-tossing pro in no time."

Axel laughs, his eyes sparkling with joy. "Well, I had a great teacher," he says, giving me a wink.

I feel a blush creeping up my cheeks at the compliment.

A mischievous glint flashes in Axel's eyes as he flicks a puff of flour at me, the white powder dusting my nose and cheeks. "Oh, you're gonna pay for that!" I exclaim, laughing.

"Bring it on, Vanilla Bean," Axel challenges, his grin widening.

Laughter bubbles up from my chest as I retaliate, grabbing a handful of flour and tossing it back at him. "Take that, you rascal!"

Axel ducks, but the flour still manages to dust his hair and shoulders. "Oh, it's on now!" He reaches for another handful of flour.

The kitchen erupts into a flurry of white as we engage in a playful battle, flour flying through the air like snow. I dart around the kitchen island, trying to dodge Axel's attacks while launching my own. Our laughter echoes off the walls, and I can't remember the last time I felt this carefree and happy.

"Surrender now, and I might just spare you!" Axel teases, cornering me against the counter.

"Never!" I declare, grabbing a nearby dish towel and swatting at him playfully. "I'll never surrender to the likes of you!"

Axel's deep chuckles mingle with my giggles as we dodge and weave around each other, the earlier tension melting away in the face of this carefree moment. My heart swells with affection for this man who can make me feel so alive, so connected, even in the midst of chaos.

The commotion draws the attention of the pack members, who file into the kitchen with curious expressions. Elena takes in the scene, a smirk tugging at her lips. "I see you two are having fun," she comments, her tone light and teasing.

Kate chuckles, shaking her head. "Leave it to Axel and Lila to turn cooking into a full-contact sport."

Finn bounces on his toes, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Can I join in? I want to throw flour too!"

Ethan places a hand on Finn's shoulder, holding him back gently. "I think they've got it covered, buddy. Besides, we don't want to make an even bigger mess for them to clean up later."

I brush the flour from my face, laughing. "Don't worry, Finn. We'll have plenty of other chances for kitchen adventures. Maybe next time, we can even convince Ethan to join us."

Ethan holds up his hands, backing away with a grin. "Oh no, count me out. I prefer my food fights to be strictly metaphorical."

This is what it means to be part of a family. My heart swelling with affection for these people who have welcomed me into their lives.

Axel grins, brushing flour from his hair. "Care to join us? Lila's teaching me how to make pizza, and we could use a few extra hands."

The others exchange glances, smiles spreading across their faces as they roll up their sleeves and dive in. Ethan grabs a ball of dough and starts stretching it, his strong hands working the elastic mixture. "I bet I can toss this higher than you, Axel!" he challenges with a grin.

Axel laughs, grabbing his own dough. "You're on, brother!" He begins spinning the dough on his fingertips, the round disc growing larger with each rotation.

Kate shakes her head, smiling as she efficiently chops vegetables. "Boys, this isn't a competition. We're supposed to be learning from Lila, remember?"

But their playful energy is contagious, filling the kitchen with warmth and camaraderie. I watch in amazement as the pack works together seamlessly, kneading dough, chopping toppings, and sharing stories and laughter. It's like a well-choreographed dance, each person anticipating the others' needs and moving in sync.

Kate sidles up to me, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Hey, Lila, I have an idea for a unique pizza topping combination. Want to give it a try?"

Intrigued, I nod eagerly. "Absolutely! What did you have in mind?"

We huddle together, experimenting with different flavors and textures, our wolves humming with contentment at this newfound camaraderie. As we work, I can feel the last vestiges of my uncertainty about my place in the pack slipping away, replaced by a sense of belonging and unity.

The aroma of baking pizza fills the kitchen, making my mouth water and my heart swell with pride at our collaborative effort. As we gather around the table, admiring our creations, the pack members engage in good-natured ribbing, teasing Axel about his flour-coated appearance.

I lean back in my chair, savoring the warmth and laughter that surround me. It's a stark contrast to the trepidation I felt just hours ago, and I can't help but marvel at how quickly things have changed.

As the evening winds down, Axel leans in close, his breath tickling my ear. "Want to take a walk? Just the two of us?"

I nod, my heart fluttering at the prospect of some alone time with my mate. Hand in hand, we slip out into the moonlit forest, leaving the warmth and laughter of the pack behind us.