3. A Collision of Fate

"Seriously, watch where you’re going!" a curt voice snapped from above me. This voice was the source for all this chaos. If it hadn't bumped into me, I wouldn't be on the ground, desperately trying to salvage what was left of my cake. As I glanced upwards to identify the source of the disruption, I was met with the sight of a striking young man. He stood tall, with sharp, chiseled features and piercing, steel-blue eyes that seemed to cut through the commotion around us. His dark, tousled hair framed his face in an effortlessly stylish manner, adding to the air of confidence that seemed to exude from him. Dressed in a perfectly tailored suit that hinted at both sophistication and a hint of rebellion, he exuded a magnetic presence. His expression, a mix of exasperation and annoyance, did nothing to detract from his undeniable good looks. In that moment, despite the chaos around us, it was hard to deny that I was in the presence of someone truly captivating. "Well, aren't you just a vision of patience and understanding?" he remarked with a raised eyebrow and a hint of dry humor. My cheeks flushed, realizing I had been caught in my unintentional staring contest. It was a stark reminder that my momentary distraction had not gone unnoticed. Flustered, I quickly averted my gaze, feeling a flush of embarrassment wash over me. "Oh, my apologies for not realizing you were the center of the universe," I retorted, matching his sarcasm with a smirk. His confident facade faltered for a moment, and we shared a brief, amused exchange before Katherine interrupted us. Is everything alright here?" She hurried over, her gaze shifting between the handsome stranger and me, clearly trying to make sense of the situation. Before I could respond, the stranger smoothly took charge. "Just a little collision, nothing serious. We're managing just fine," he assured her with a charming smile. “Your shoes are all ruined. Carla dear help Jacob now would you," said Katherine calling out to her daughter. This was that Jacob. The formidable Alpha of the Wintermoon Pack, and the man Carla is set to marry. But here's the twist: Jacob is notorious for his ruthlessness, earning him a reputation as a young and fearsome leader. He ascended to the throne at the tender age of 18, a feat achieved by none other than dispatching his own father. This dark history has solidified his position as the youngest and most dreaded Alpha in their ranks. "Actually, I think I'd prefer her help, after all we should let the culprit be the one to fix her mess, " Jacob chimed in, his eyes locking onto mine. "Allow me to assist you. It's the least I can do after my stellar performance as a human bulldozer," I said my tone laced with a touch of self-deprecating humor. With that we made our way inside the house and towards the guest bathroom. “I'll be here if you need me” I said. With a curt node he went inside and I took this chance to look around the house. Beeston Castle exudes a sense of cozy sophistication. The walls are painted in a soft, muted tone, creating a serene atmosphere. Large windows drape the space in natural light, accentuating the room's spaciousness. A plush area rug rests beneath a tastefully arranged seating area, featuring comfortable yet stylish furnishings. It’s a harmonious blend of architectural beauty and practicality a stunning architectural masterpiece, boasting an elegant blend of modern design and timeless charm. Before long, Jacob came back from the restroom and he looked pissed. His shoes weren't just dirty; rather, he was completely soaked. “What happened? Did a full blown tsunami take place in there?” I inquired. "Well, I wanted to audition for the next Aquaman movie, so I turned my bathroom into an underwater set. Don’t you think I look quite attractive with these water droplets glistening on me?" he replied. "Yes, absolutely stunning! You've got the 'Drowned Rat Chic' look down pat." I said. "Oh, I know. It's amazing how effortlessly I pull off any look, even the 'Drowned Rat Chic,' isn't it?" he said moving closer to me his eyes red from fury. Before Jacob could take another step closer, our conversation was abruptly interrupted by a familiar voice. I swiftly turned my head to see the cute server from Debby's Dinner. What was his name again? “Is that who I think it is” he said while looking at me. “Wait you two know each other?” Jacob asked curiously "I wouldn't go so far as to say we know each other, more like we've encountered each other before." the server replied. He wasn’t one of us so what was he doing at this very private gathering that involved some of the most feared werewolves. "Oh come on. It's more accurate to say you spilled your life story to me” I said jokingly “When, Tyler, will you stop your endless blabbering with absolutely anyone and everyone?" Jacob intervened. Yes Tyler was his name. Ouch that was hurtful I think but don’t say it out loud. Before this could drag on any further, Carla's sharp heels brings an interruption to our very friendly conversation. Carla impatiently asks, “What's taking so long?” Before any of us could respond, she interrupted us once again with concern, 'Oh no, babe, what happened to you?' She said referring to Jacob. "It's nothing, just a minor incident," Jacob responded. "Come on, let's get you into something else," Carla says, and the couple leaves, leaving me and Tyler behind. As much as it pains me to admit it, Carla and Jacob do make quite a good-looking pair. And it appeared she genuinely cared about him. I suppose it wasn't merely a political marriage, as many of us had suspected. Before I could delve deeper into my thoughts, Tyler abruptly interrupted me, as was often his way. "So, what brings you here?" Tyler inquired, his curiosity piqued. "I'm Arthur's daughter, and he invited me to Carla's wedding, which is why I'm here," I replied, offering an explanation for my presence. "So, you’re Carla’s sister?" he said. I don't think we considered each other sisters, for as long as i can remember Carla has hated me, but I chose not to divulge the complex history, simply responding, "Half-sister." Tyler nodded, not pressing further. "Now, it's your turn. Care to share what brings you here?" I asked, mirroring his earlier inquiry. Tyler leaned in, confiding, "Jacob and I have a long history." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh really? Tell me more about your history with Jacob." "We're childhood friends. We used to spend our summers together at his grandparents' farm, getting into all sorts of mischief." I couldn't help but smile at the image of two mischievous kids causing havoc on a farm. "Sounds like you have some interesting stories from those days," I replied. Tyler chuckled, "Oh, you have no idea. We were like partners in crime back then. It's been quite a journey from those carefree days to where we are now." As we made our way back to the festivities, I couldn't help but notice the genuine camaraderie between Tyler and Jacob. Despite the years and the changes that had taken place, their friendship remained as strong as ever. Feeling apprehensive about returning to the party, especially after the cake-dropping chaos, I hesitated. However, Tyler noticed my discomfort and made a considerate gesture by sticking right by my side. His presence offered a sense of comfort, and I decided to rejoin the festivities with him. As we walked back into the party, Tyler's presence acted as a buffer against the awkwardness I had felt earlier. It was reassuring to have a friend who had my back, and I began to relax, slowly embracing the celebration once more. Finally, I had made a friend, and it happened to be my first friend from Lunarwells.