The Wolf Within Me
Chapter 9:

In Kiani’s head: I hear ungodly sounds coming from the trees. They're gonna rip each other apart at this rate. Maybe Winter can turn into her wolf and stop them? 

Kiani: “OH MY GOD, WOULD YOU PUT SOME DAMN CLOTHES ON!”

Winter: “Why the hell would he want you? It makes no sense. You don't even know ANYTHING! It's so over your head.”

Kiani: “Are you decent? (Winter screams)”

Winter: “You’re soooo-”

Kiani: “I'm not looking at your naked ass.”

Winter: “I’M NOT NAKED!”

Kiani: “You better be sure.”

Winter: “I AM SURE YOU BRAT!”

Kiani: “It's a shame there isn't a wall around here. Are they gonna be okay?”

Winter: “Tao’s gonna get his ass kicked but Rocco won't kill him. Tao messes around too much. He likes getting a reaction out of Rocco. Boy, did he get it.”

Kiani: “Tao only licked me, a bit slobbery but sweet.”

Winter: “You have no clue!”

Kiani: “What?! Rocco didn't have to attack him over that.”

Winter: “Rocco’s not gonna let any male wolf near you. You're fucking his. Do you realize what this means?”

Kiani: “Yeah, what?”

Winter: “Rocco showed the whole damn pack he's into you. If Tao wasn't like family, he would’ve torn his throat out. This is how males get when they mark. Especially an alpha. He fucking marked you, DAMMIT! Rocco was meant to choose me. Why am I not good enough for him? I've tried for years to get him to mark me. I thought this was gonna be my year. I love this pack. I wanted to help lead this pack with Rocco. Then you came along out of nowhere and-”

In Kiani’s head: She loves him.

Kiani: “If he was your mate, wouldn't it have happened by now? I didn't ask for this.”

Winter: “Well, you're in the deep end now, babe.”

Kiani: “Are clothes not a thing around here?”

River: “Rocco and Tao are back at the manor. Rocco had to carry him back in human form when they were both calmed down. Tao’s in bad shape. Rocco tried to stop his wolf, but you know his wolf is strong-willed. You know how Tao is, but he crossed the line today. Tao will heal, but it’ll take a couple of days.”

Kiani: “I can help heal Tao. I won't have him hurt because of me. (Rocco pacing back and forth in the hallway). Rocco, are you okay? You're bleeding!”

Rocco: “It's not my blood, little wolf.”

Kiani: “Y-you didn’t have to-”

Rocco: “Tell that to my wolf, little one. I'm more aggressive than normal. My wolf feels threatened because you haven't marked me back. He doesn't want you to mark any male but me. Waiting for your mark to fade is more challenging than I thought.”

Kiani: “You still don't want to mark me? I mean, if you feel so strongly-”

In Kiani’s head: What am I saying?

Rocco’s Wolf: “Stop fighting this. You're meant to trust me.”

Kiani: “W-what I mean to say is…”

Kiani’s Wolf: “Why won't you mark him?”

Rocco: “I have to think of my pack. My pack always comes first. That's why I can't-”

Kiani: “Forget I said anything. I can't mark you back anyway. I'm here to heal Tao.”

Rocco: “But you'll take on his pain. You hardly know him to do this.”

Kiani: “I wanna do this. It's my choice. You wanted a healer, didn't you? Well, here I am, you've got one. (Rocco rolls his eyes - Kiani laughs)”

Rocco: “You're a headache, aren't you little wolf? (Kiani laughs - Rocco smiles)”

In Kiani’s head: OH MY HEART!

Kiani: “I had a dream about you.”

In Kiani’s head: Word vomit!

Rocco: “You've been dreaming about me?”

Kiani: “I didn't say that out loud. It's your stupid mark. (Rocco laughs)”

In Kiani’s head: Heart just stopped, heart attack in motion.

Kiani: “Tao needs me.”

Rocco: “Yes he does.”

Kiani: “Okay. (in Tao’s room)”

In Kiani’s head: I was surprised to see the whole pack in the room as Rocco followed me up the stairs to Tao’s room. Praying they hadn't heard Rocco and me downstairs. I was more worried that I had an audience. They all were worried for Tao which I know was love. I was worried because when I healed Rocco it just happened. Now I have to somehow do it again for Tao. Tao was in bad shape. No average human would survive this but that's the thing. We aren't normal. We're so much more. As I placed both my hands on Tao’s warm chest. I heard Rocco snarl slightly, but I needed to concentrate. I felt my hand tingle and become unbearably hot as I took a deep breath. Then I felt it. His pain slowly went through me. I was in too much pain to notice the whole pack staring at me in awe. The pain was blinding but I held on as I squeezed my eyes shut. Then everything went black. I felt a warm presence surrounding me.

Rocco: “Kiani, stay with me. (a few hours later Rocco’s bedroom)”

In Sierra’s head: Kiani has earned the pack’s respect in a matter of a day. A natural healer and selfless. I can’t let Rocco discover who she is. Kiani Bloodstone. Not yet. Not until they’re mated. Rocco will give in. I've seen how he looks at her. They could even be soulmates…I hope. If Kylo is out there. Kiani will be in our pack.

In Rocco’s head: Kiani healed Tao. Took all of his pain and passed out. She didn't have to do that. Kiani doesn't owe us anything. But she did it regardless. Respect earned. Now they bond.

Rocco: “Aren't you wolves hungry? I know you want to confort Kiani, but she doesn't know our way yet. Give her some damn space. She really will think we're a cult if she wakes up to this.”

Aspen: “Is that an actual joke from our ‘charming’ alpha?”

Rocco: “Whatever. (Aspen laughs)”

In Rocco’s head: In a trance, I let a couple of my fingers traced circles around her smooth skin. I'm only torturing myself, but damn. I wonder if she had the same dream I did. In that dream, I gave in to my instincts.

Kiani: “Mhm.”

In Rocco’s head: In the dream, I tasted her lips. Those lips were made for kissing. I bet they're as soft as they look. How would she react if I pressed my lips onto hers? I've never been so damn tempted. My Luna. Why deny my wolf? I can't risk her not being ready. Kiani has to be prepared for me. Can she handle an alpha? If I wasn't an alpha, I'd have her screaming my name by now. I’d make sure every damn male on this God forsaken planet knew that she was mine.

Rocco’s Wolf: “Yes!”

In Rocco’s head: No. But Kiani is bloody beautiful. But you can never be mine. My wolf lets out the biggest whine of the day. (on the balcony)

In Kiani’s head: Whoever dressed me in this dressing gown…

Kiani: “Hey you, how are you feeling?”

Tao: “How am I feeling? You're the one who healed me and took all of my pain. I wanted to say thank you, Kiani. You hardly know me and-”

Kiani: “Honestly, it's okay, Tao. I have the power to do so and you were in pain.”

Tao: “Damn, if only I marked you.”

Kiani: “Give me a break. (both laugh). Urgh, eyes up here, wolf boy.”

Tao: “I'm sorry, you just look-”

Kiani: “This better not have been your idea to put me in this.”

Tao: “It wasn't me. But thank you to whoever did it. (Tao laughs)”

Kiani: “Are you always such a flirt? (Kiani laughs)”

Tao: “I hope you join our pack. I can see you with us. Not just because you're a healer, either. You've won me over but I'll need you around if Rocco kicks my ass again. If he gave me five more seconds. (Kiani laughs). River loves you already. She usually turns the strays away. I better let you rest up. Rocco will kill me this time.”

Kiani: “You snuck in, didn't you?”

Tao: “Fucking snuck! (Kiani laughs)”

Kiani: “Is this Rocco’s room?!”

Tao: “Yeah. (Tao leaves - Nova walks in)”

Nova: “Sorry about Tao. I told him not to come in. (Kiani laughs)”

Kiani: “It's okay, I love Tao.”

Nova: “Yeah, he's lovable, but such a flirt.”

Kiani: “You can say that again. (both laugh)”

Nova: “He'll flirt with himself if you let him. (both laugh). I knew that dressing gown would look hot on you.”

Kiani: “It's yours?”

Nova: “Sexy, huh?”

Kiani: “I guess so.”

Nova: “Rocco couldn't take his eyes off of you. You could make him want you. I can give you some tips. Sexify you and all that. (Nova laugh)”

Kiani: “We're waiting for the mark to fade, so..”

Nova: “You want him, I can tell. I bet your wolf is craving him. I know how it feels when a male wolf shifter marks you. Especially if you already had the attraction to begin with. I’m mated to Asher. I couldn't resist him even if I tried. I had hot dreams about him and everything. Giving in never felt so damn good. They do like the chase. Be thankful it's not heat season. You'll love that season. Anyway, come eat something. And also, thank you. You healed Tao. He's like my brother.”

Kiani: “Of course. (Nova walks away). I CAN’T GO OUT LIKE THIS!”

Nova: “OWN IT, GIRL. (in the dining room)”

In Kiani’s head: Oh, there he is, glaring at me like usual. Oh fuck, I forgot what I was wearing. Or lack of. This could not get any more embarrassing. Everyone is staring at me. So, like Nova said, I'm gonna own it.

Kiani: “You better have left me some pizza. (Nova laughs)”

Asher: “Of course. (Rocco storms off)”

Kiani’s Wolf: “Go after him. (Kiani follows - on the balcony)”

Rocco’s Wolf: “I've waited long enough. WANT! NOW!”

In Rocco’s head: Get it together, Rocco, dammit.

Kiani: “Can you get any more rude?”

Rocco: “CAN YOU PUT SOME DAMN CLOTHES ON?!”

Kiani: “I WOKE UP LIKE THIS!”

Rocco: “THEN STAY IN MY DAMN ROOM!”

Kiani: “DON’T TELL ME WHAT TO DO!”

Rocco: “My pack, my rules.”

Kiani: “Feel free to screw your rules.”

Rocco: “My mark is fading.”

Kiani: “Good. That's the best news I've heard all day.”

Maia: “Rocco. I need to talk to you in private.”

Kiani: “The pizza was calling my name anyway. (Kiani storms off)”

Rocco: “What is it, Maia?”

In Rocco’s head: Thank God, Kiani’s intoxicating scent pushed me over the edge.

Rocco’s Wolf: “MATE!”

In Rocco’s head: Shut up.

Sierra: “Rocco. Maia, I need to talk to you.”

Maia: “I was just about to-”

Sierra: “It’ll only take a second.”

Maia: “Okay.”

In Rocco’s head: I usually would’ve questioned further. What did Maia wanna tell me? But my mind is occupied. I think my wolf might drive me insane.

Rocco’s Wolf: “Mate.”

In Rocco’s head: My wolf will always react to his animalistic needs. I have to keep the logic. What I don't understand is how my mark is fading, yet I still want her as if she marked me back. Not helping that her scent is all over the house. I shouldn't have let her join my pack. The idea of that is making my gut wrench. Not being near her.

Rocco’s Wolf: “I know best. (in the dining room)”

River: “Like the sexy dressing-gown, huh? All the males are drooling over you. Tao is practically panting. (Kiani laughs)”

Kiani: “I do feel good. But I saw how he was all over your wolf in wolf form earlier.”

River: “He's just playful. Even if we were mates, it would’ve happened by now. My wolf thinks he's hot. That's it.”

Kiani: “What about Aspen?”

River: “What about him?”

Kiani: “Defensive much? What does your wolf think about him?”

River: “We all heard your roaring match with Rocco.”

Kiani: “An excellent way to change the subject.”

River: “But you know, it just proves your chemistry.”

Kiani: “How does that prove anything?”

River: “Do you think any of us could raise our voice at our alpha without any fucking consequences right now? (on the balcony)”

Rocco: “I'm not in the mood, Winter.”

Winter: “You used to always be in the mood. I know you're not gonna mark Kiani.”

Rocco’s Wolf: “YES WE ARE!”

Winter: “So why don't you mark me and get this over with? Kiani can be our healer in this pack but you and I both know she can't be the Luna. She doesn't know you or this pack like I do.”

Rocco: “You and I both know we're not true mates. You can replace your true mate someday. Don't waste your time with me.”

In Winter’s head: But I love you.

Rocco: “If you wanna be a Luna, it won't be in this pack. (Rocco walks away - Winter screams - River’s bedroom)”

River: “You're leaving?”

Kiani: “Of course I'm leaving, I don't live here.”

River: “I thought you didn't trust your aunt anymore.”

Kiani: “Maybe I don't but I still love her. I'll see you at the university.”

River: “Do you want a ride home?”

Kiani: “I got a taxi. I'll see you around.”

In Kiani’s head: I don't think I can do this anymore. It's just all too much. Maybe Nia will let us move again. Rocco’s mark will fade when I'm gone. He doesn't want me and that hurts my heart. I know I'm running away, but I can deal with what I am on my own. At least I know what I am now. With Nia’s help I can manage. I'll miss River. She's been the most genuine person I've met. Her world is too much for me.

Kiani: “Goodbye River.”

In River’s head: Why do I feel like she's running away? (Rocco’s bedroom)

Asher: “Rocco.”

Rocco: “What's wrong?”

Asher: “Kiani’s left the premises.”

Rocco: “Did Maia take her back?”

Asher: “No, she got a taxi. I’m letting you know.”

Rocco: “Speak your mind, Asher.”

Asher: “I know how I felt when I marked Nova. I just wouldn't want you to lose your potential mate. From what I've seen, it's a strong connection.”

Rocco: “You warned me-”

Asher: “I know, but what she did for Tao, she's pure. Kiani is strong and dominant. I can feel it. She just needs to learn. Luna and a healer are very rare.”

Rocco: “Why do you act like she's not coming back? ASHER!”

Asher: “I heard an awkward goodbye she said to River. (River storms in)”

Rocco: “Is it true River?!”

River: “Why do you always push people away? EVEN YOU’RE MATE!!”

Asher: “River!”

River: “Don't say it's her age or for the good of the pack. Kiani’s the best thing that’s happened to us in a long time. You haven't even given her a chance. If you didn't replace out she was a healer, you would’ve given up on her already.”

Asher: “River, that's enough. You're talking to our alpha.”

River: “No, Asher. I wouldn't dream of it. I'm talking to my brother. A brother that I wanna see finally fucking happy.”

In Rocco’s head: Have I turned that heartless to push away my mate? I know that Kiani’s really mine.

Rocco’s Wolf: “MINE!”

In Rocco’s head: Yes, for bloody sake, I agree.

Rocco’s Wolf: “Good.”

In Rocco’s head: Ever since my dad put this scar on my face, I ended his life. I haven't been the same.

Rocco’s Wolf: “Threat, had to die.”

In Rocco’s head: Some scars will never heal. Can you believe I used to be just like Tao? All I can say now…Kiani better be damn well ready for me.

Rocco’s Wolf: “MINE! (Rocco walks away)”

Asher: “Poor girl, you've done it now.”

River: “Kiani will thank me later. (Asher laughs)”

Asher: “I agree. He's the best wolf I know. When he's not an ass. (both laugh)”