The Wolf Within Me
Chapter 12:

Kiani: “I was tracking her-”

Rocco: “It was a woman?!”

Kiani: “I swear it was a girl. I felt like she was stalking me.”

In Rocco’s head: Hm.

Rocco: “I’ll replace out. I always do.”

Kiani: “Am I in danger, Rocco?”

Rocco: “Not when you're with me.”

Kiani: “Then I have to train with you.”

In Kiani’s head: I feel obsessed with this guy. I just wanna be with him all the time. Even though he can drive me insane.

Kiani’s Wolf: “Mine!”

In Kiani’s head: Yeah, I get it.

Rocco: “Kiani, having your neck broken is the most vulnerable state a shifter can be in. We're not invincible. Don't let it happen again.”

Kiani: “I was looking out for the pack. I picked up a strange scent and I thought the pack could be in danger. If it wasn't for me, you wouldn't have known she was lurking around in your territory.”

Rocco: “You could’ve had more than a broken neck if it wasn't for me! If you don't know how to protect yourself, don't go looking for danger!”

Kiani: “I was trying to use the instincts that you keep telling me about. My inner wolf wanted to investigate, so I did. I'm learning. Doing your lessons and for what? Until you approve. Well no thank you! I'm doing this for myself and my wolf. NOT FOR YOU! So you can take your hot and cold self, and hit the damn road, Jack! (Rocco laughs)”

Rocco: “Cute. But I'm not called Jack. At least you sound more like a Luna. You've got one trait. Stubborn.”

Kiani: “You're a pain in my ass. I can't believe I mated with you.”

Rocco: “You're not fully my mate until you let me claim you.”

Kiani: “What?”

Rocco: “Kiani. I need all of you to be my true mate. Or I can move on if I choose.”

In Kiani’s head: Move on?

Kiani’s Wolf: “NO!”

Kiani: “You were all over me. I'm addicted to you. Isn't that enough for you?”

In Kiani’s head: Gulp. Well, that was subtle.

Rocco: “Of course you're addicted to me. But it's more than that. It's hard to explain.”

Kiani: “But it feels more…”

In Kiani’s head: Damn, she stares at me instantly with his honey eyes. It's hard to really concentrate. Really now aware I'm only in a damn towel.

Rocco: “It could be so much more. But you've been raised as a human. You think like a human. Even though I crave you, my little wolf. We're not ready to bond.”

In Kiani’s head: How are we meant to bond if you keep pushing me away? Just because he thinks I'm not ready. More like he's saying I'm fragile.

Kiani: “Well I'm still here. Even though I've been raised by a human, had my neck broken and not freaking out, I'm tougher than you think I am.”

In Rocco’s head: She makes this so hard. I'm doing what’s best for us right now.

Kiani: “I have to go to the university.”

Rocco: “You wanna arrive on time?”

Kiani: “Yeah, I wanna arrive on time.”

In Rocco’s head: I stay angry, but not with Kiani. When she's angry, it turns me on.

Rocco: “Training continues after the University. I don't want that pretty little neck of yours broken again. Oh, and you never thanked me for saving your life. You can get changed in front of me. You might as well get used to me seeing you naked.”

Kiani: “GET OUT!”

Rocco’s head: It's my room.”

Kiani: “Does it look like I care?”

Rocco: “It's only fair, you've seen me naked.”

Kiani: “Not by choice.”

Rocco: “Didn't you like my body? I swear you called me buff once. You can see me naked whenever you want to. All you have to do is ask.”

Kiani: “Stop teasing me!”

Rocco: “Who says I'm teasing you?”

Kiani: “I’m getting changed in River’s room!”

Rocco: “Your clothes are here. It's a waste of time. Get changed, Kiani.”

Kiani: “Turn around!”

Rocco: “Why would I do that? Get dressed, Kiani. You're gonna be late.”

In Kiani’s head: Why am I turned on right now? Because I know he wants me.

Kiani: “Desperate or what? Look all you want! Like I'm bothered. I have a fine ass body and I think we both know that.”

In Kiani’s head: I feel Rocco’s eyes burning in the back of my body. I feel my heart jump into action. My heat rises all over my body. Regrets! As I'm about to hook my bra on, I feel Rocco’s hard chest against my back. Rocco hooks my bra on for me. This light touch on my bare back nearly sends me over the edge.

Rocco: “Do you want your hair up or down?”

Kiani: “I'll have my hair loose for a change. What do you think?”

Rocco: “I like it.”

In Kiani’s head: Rocco gently curls his fingers around one of my unruly curls.

Rocco: “You weren't lying about your body.”

In Kiani’s head: I hear Rocco whisper under his breath. The pull of attraction is too hard to resist. I dive on Rocco as my legs wrapped around his waist. He catches me when our mouths crash together. (Tao’s shocked)

Rocco: “It looks like you're saved, little wolf.”

In Kiani’s head: Rocco lowers me to the ground gently.

Rocco: “Excuse me.”

Tao: “Just pretend that I'm not here. (Rocco punches Tao across the room)”

In Kiani’s head: Although…thanks to Tao, I know I'm not the idiot in this pack now. Winning. (Kiani laughs - Hawthorne Mansion in the entrance way)

Mrs. Hawthorne: “Are those bum shorts?!”

Brooke: “Booty shorts.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “You're such an embarrassment.”

Brooke: “They're just booty shorts.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “What would people think? Oh sweetie, I've always hated that nose stud. Ruined your almost pretty face. At least wear your cheer outfit.”

Brooke: “I don't have cheer today mom.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “Oh dear. You go out of my house like that, darling?”

Brooke: “Goodbye.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “Wait. River Darkwood is attending Meadow Lake University.”

In Brooke’s head: You'll never guess who I saw at the University, Rocco Darkwood. It seemed like he knew Kiani well. But I'm gonna keep that to myself for now.

Brooke: “Why are you and dad so obsessed with that family? Don't tell me it's because it’s family business. Yeah, I get there a cult, but mystical creatures? They don't exist. We're gonna end up just as crazy.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “Don't be so naive, Brooke. You just do what I damn well tell you. Have you made friends with her yet?”

Brooke: “You've got to be joking.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “Give me strength. Have I taught you nothing? Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. I make it my business to know about everyone and everything in Meadow Lake. The Darkwoods are the only mystery. They're not from this world, let me tell you. The family business is gonna expose them. We'll have to prove that they’re more than just humans in this world.”

Brooke: “I'm so glad the family business is private.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “A non-believer, the Darkwoods are more than just a cult. You need to do your part for this family. I know you'll do this for me. You're already useless as it is.”

Brooke: “Don't underestimate me.”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “We’ll see. Find out what you can.”

Brooke: “Without it looking crazy on the family, correct?”

Mrs. Hawthrone: “Have a good day, my darling.”

In Brooke’s head: If anyone found out where all our money goes into research. Every fantasy creature you've read in books, my family believes it. That's been the family's secret business for generations. In private, slowly gathering information to expose the truth to the world. It's cold hard truth? They never found anything. That's why they're private investigations. All mentally insane. A fanatic is a word I would use. As past generations have learned. I was hoping my family would be different. No, the limits go on. Unfortunately, I'm stuck on the Looney ride. (Brooke texts Haley)

Brooke: “Hals, you’re in luck.”

Haley: “What are you on about, Brooke?”

Brooke: “Meet me before the university. You know the place. Xxx.”

Haley: “Does this mean we're okay? Xxx.”

Brooke: “If you do your job right.”

In Brooke’s head: It’s go time.

Brooke: “Oh hi daddy!”

Mr. Hawthrone: “Tell her I've gone hunting with the men if you see your mother.”

Brooke: “You just missed her.”

Mr. Hawthrone: “You should come hunting with us again. You used to love it.”

Brooke: “Yeah, killing animals is fun and all but I have college, remember?”

Mr. Hawthrone: “Of course. Cheerleading is a waste of your talents. Why do I pay for it again? You can't be a cheerleader all your life. It's time you join the family business.”

Brooke: “The family business is crazy. It's based on myths that your family believed for generations. Guess what? They never found proof. If anyone found out you believed such theories and myths, we would be like the Darkwood freaks! Sorry for wanting to be normal. Cheerleading takes hard work and skill. Not forgetting blood, sweat and tears.”

Mr. Hawthrone: “You're such a disappointment, my daughter, but you'll learn. Find out all you can about River Darkwood.”

Brooke: “Yes, dad. Despite what you think, I'm already on it. I think someone else has joined her stupid of a cult. Her name is Kiani Green. I'll replace out about her as well.”

Mr. Hawthrone: “Then get on it and report back.”

Maid: “Can I fetch you your coat, Miss. Hawthrone?”

In Brooke’s head: I'm a fucking cliche. A daughter who doesn't wanna be a damn disappointment. Then maybe my damn parents will love me.

Brooke: “GET OUT OF MY FACE! (Brooke storms off - Nia answering the door)”

Juno: “Hey, new neighbor. I brought cupcakes.”

Nia: “T-thank you. But we moved a while ago.”

Juno: “Oh, you did, huh? I must’ve been away. So lovely to see new faces around here. Is it just you and your-”

Nia: “My niece, you're the first to welcome us. Even though you're late.”

Juno: “Yeah, people can be so ignorant.”

Nia: “I'm not trying to be rude.”

Juno: “I'm the rude one for not saying hello earlier but I was away. I can't speak for others. It's nice to meet you. So just you and your niece? What's her name? I bet she's just as beautiful as you. (Nia laughs)”

Nia: “Well, you're quite a character. Kiani is at the University, or I would’ve told her to come say hello.”

Juno: “Can I use your bathroom?”

Nia: “Urgh, sure you-”

Juno: “Thank you so much. (in Kiani’s bedroom)”

In Juno’s head: I-it can’t be. That scent. Kiani Stone is alive.

Juno: “She smells just like her brother.”

In Juno’s head: But what is she doing with the Darkwood Pack? (in the living room)

Nia: “Where did she go?”

In Nia’s head: Something's not right. (Nia makes a phone call - Darkwood garden)

Kiani: “Slow down. I doubt a neighbor handing out cupcakes is a criminal offense.”

Haley: “Hey Kiani.”

Kiani: “Hey. I'll talk to you later. We'll sort it out then. Sorry about that. Haley, right?”

Haley: “Yeah, we met at the woods party.”

Kiani: “It's still a little hazy, but yeah.”

Haley: “Yeah, from what I could remember, It was a pretty good night. Can't forget that little make out session with Curtis.”

Kiani: “Yeah, I was drunk.”

Haley: “Been there, done that. But your mate, River, recorded it, right?”

Kiani: “She did WHAT?! (Haley laughs). That girl is going to get it. Don't you hang around with Brooke?”

Haley: “We've fallen out. I don't know if you can tell, but she's hard work.”

Kiani: “Yeah, I wasn't going to say it.”

Haley: “She’d kill me for talking to you. But I don't care. You seem like a good laugh. We should go and get lunch. If you want to. I know a cute little cafe we can go to.”

Kiani: “River’s got class, so…”

Haley: “Perfect. (at the cafe)”

Curtis: “Oh damn, guess who's here.”

Brooke: “Don't worry, Curtis. We should give Kiani a chance. You enjoyed making out with her anyway. Didn't you?”

Curtis: “I'm not going to lie. Do you want her to be a part of our group or something?”

Brooke: “We’ll see. Apparently, she’s taken. Don't let that stop you. It hasn’t before.”

Curtis: “What about River?”

Brooke: “We'll start with Kiani. She interests me. She got close to the Darkwoods So quick, don't you think?”

Haley: “Look who's here.”

In Kiani’s head: Damn, Curtis is here too.

Kiani: “Shall we go, we're done anyway.”

Haley: “This is our hangout spot.”

Kiani: “What do you mean? You knew they were going to come, didn't you? So much for falling out with-”

Brooke: “Hey Haley.”

Haley: “Hey, I've ordered your favorite, babes.”

Brooke: “Aw, thanks hon. (Kiani rolls her eyes)”

Haley: “You know Kiani, right Brooke?”

Brooke: “How can I forget? You know Kiani, right Curtis?”

Curtis: “Yeah.”

Kiani: “I was just leaving.”

Haley: “Oh come on, Kiani. Stay.”

Brooke: “We got off to a bad start. I'll be a nice person today.”

Kiani: “Are you serious?”

Curtis: “When Brooke first met me, she told me to get the hell out of her face or she would kick me in the balls. Now we're friends.”

Brooke: “Aw, stop.”

Kiani: “How nice.”

Brooke: “I'm a charmer. I'm not that bad once you get to know me.”

In Kiani’s head: No, just worse. How did I get here?

Brooke: “Wait until you try our coffee special.”

Haley: “It's our absolute favorite.”

Curtis: “Soon to be yours.”

In Kiani’s head: I didn't realize the time. What did I expect? The exceptional coffee is full of alcohol. I can only handle this group when I'm tipsy. I'm waiting for the bus with Brooke Hawthrone. Sorry, she's waiting for her driver. I'm waiting for the bus.

Brooke: “You're not going to throw up, are you?”

Kiani: “More alcohol than coffee.”

Brooke: “That's the whole point, dork.”

Kiani: “Dork, really? I thought we were getting along.”

Brooke: “Never.”

Kiani: “This isn't what I had planned. It must be the drink.”

Brooke: “The drink, babe. Want to smoke?”

Kiani: “No, I don't smoke. Well, usually. Smoking kills and all that.”

Brooke: “We all die eventually. Why not enjoy the ride?”

Kiani: “Talk about morbid.”

Brooke: “You and River became friends fast. River keeps to herself. Well, her whole family does. You come alone, and you're practically both holding hands.”

Kiani: “We just clicked.”

Brooke: “Hmm. Friends with her brother too? I never saw him properly before until he came to our University this time. It's unlike anything I've seen.”

In Kiani’s head: Where's the bus at?

Brooke: “The girls were drooling, and the boys were running scared. What a man.”

Kiani’s Wolf: “Back off! Mine!”

Kiani: “He's taken, Brooke!”

Brooke: “He is? Don't tell me you're dating Rocco Darkwood.”

Kiani: “NO WAY!”

In Kiani’s head: Damn it.

Kiani: “He was just giving us a ride back that time.”

Brooke: “You've been inside the Darkwood Manor?”

Kiani: “Who cares, really?”

Brooke: “Maybe you have something in common.”

Kiani: “Now you're talking a load of bullshit.”

Brooke: “Am I? It must be the drink, huh?”

Kiani: “What is it?”

Brooke: “Looks like you've got a ride to babes.”

In Kiani’s head: A black range rover pulls up.