I condemn Aldo and Cain for requesting that I intrude upon her life.
My wolf, Adam, reminds me that she must be informed of Aldo’s arrival. She must be informed that it is no longer safe for her or her dog at this location.
Upon arriving at the motel in the town square and settling down, I commence scrutinising the documents Aldo sent containing Laura’s information. My anxiety causes my palms to tremble as I peruse her paperwork, apprehensive about confronting her once more after all these years.
She has established a new life here. What will her reaction be upon seeing me? I suspect that Laura is quite upset with me for my betrayal.
The darkness outside indicates that it is too late to verify Laura’s whereabouts at the creche or the clinic, therefore my optimal course of action is to find her at her other employment at The Halitton. I researched the club during my journey and arrived equipped with a masquerade mask for admission. I find it difficult to comprehend her employment at a club; nevertheless, knowing Laura, she likely deemed the position essential for raising her child according to her aspirations.
“Braylon…” I whisper to myself while reading about the young boy she is nurturing. His records indicate that he is nearly 4 years of age. Regrettably, no image is provided; but, I presume he resembles her closely.
I meticulously scrutinise her work badge. Her hair remains lengthy and curled, and her eyebrows continue to be dark and prominent. Her smile, nonetheless, has transformed. It no longer reaches her eyes as it once did, with scarcely any emotion evident in her kind brown gaze.
Upon my initial encounter with Laura, her impudent smile was the most striking feature I observed. Her grin has the capacity to make an individual feel acknowledged. During her training, Luna Kay instructed her on how to cultivate a grin that conveyed both benevolence and fortitude. I observed her rehearsing in the mirror, curving and uncurling her lips.
The more I examine her photograph, the more I comprehend that she forfeited her happiness long before Aldo’s rejection. She has recently mastered concealing her anguish behind her smile, since a commendable Luna ought to prioritise her pack above her own needs.
She must be much changed now… I contemplate, as I store her photograph.
Retrieving the mask from my suitcase, I prepare for the club, fervently wishing that Laura permits me to converse with her. My legs quiver as I traverse the tranquil town, and I softly recite a brief monologue to myself.
The doorman permits my entry, with music resounding from the speakers as I enter. Exotic dancers perform on poles as attractive women clad in little schoolgirl attire and fishnet stockings serve beverages to guys reclining in private booths.
I navigate through the swaying figures of inebriated dancers on the floor and locate the bar, where two bartenders are diligently preparing cocktails. Nearly instantaneously, I detect the aroma of a wolf emanating from the tattooed male barman.
I reviewed the Washington pack maps before my visit and am aware that there are no packs at Liberty Bay. From which pack did this individual originate?
He appears to perceive my wolf as well, approaching the bar to accept my order.
“You are not a local, are you?” He enquires while serving me a neat whisky.
I remain silent, uncertain how to interpret this solitary individual, and promptly consume the liquid in one go. He compresses his lips in discontent yet persists in interrogating me.
“We seldom receive… visitors… in this area,” he states, meticulously selecting his phrasing. “It appears you are in search of something or someone,” he enquires.
I scrutinise him attentively. Despite wearing a mask, I can discern his curiosity regarding the presence of another wolf; his composed demeanour and amiable aura pose no threat to me. Following an extended silence, I ultimately reply.
“I am seeking an individual,” I respond, elevating my voice as the music crescendos. “She is employed as a waitress here.” Ricky Ira. “She consented to meet me, yet I cannot locate her…” I shout above the music, my voice diminishing as I feign searching the area. “Have you observed her?” ”
Although I cannot discern his thoughts behind the mask, the spark of panic in his eyes indicates that he is acutely aware of whoever I am referring to.
“Ricky?” He enquires, tapping his chin with his finger. “No, I do not believe we employ a female named Ricky here. Are you certain this is the correct location?” ”
He conceals her… Adam observes.
I gesture towards my mask and smile. She instructed me to carry a mask. Unless there exists another establishment in this town with a mask mandate, I believe I am in the appropriate location.
He shifts restlessly on his feet and shakes his head. “Her name is unfamiliar to me.” Regrettably, it appears that your girlfriend has not honoured your arrangement.
