Chapter 43: Water

I woke up with a startle. I couldn't remember the dream, but I had a feeling of loss. This dream was not like my usual memories, there wasn't pain or blood but instead an aching emptiness like I had lost something dear to me. I almost preferred the pain rather then this unknown sorrow.

Darkness still filled my room except the moon casting shadows here and there. My wolf sight made it easy to see each empty shadow and piece of furniture positioned around the room. I looked to my right and a bright golden eye starred back at me. "Michael", I breathed out almost forgetting he stayed to keep my demons away for the night. I turned on my side facing his body. Had he gotten any sleep next to me?... Maybe I just woke him up when I was startled awake.

Michael reached a hand out and pushed my hair back away from my face. He said in a low soft tone, "I'm here. You can go back to sleep. I'll keep watch over you". His warm arms were inviting in the dark of night, but I needed to walk off this sense of loss. I turned away from his gaze and rested on my back momentarily. My focus landed on the ceiling as I spoke, "I'm going to go get some water from the kitchen. Do you want me to bring you back a glass?". The walk downstairs would give me a few minutes to let my mind erase whatever remnants of this sad dream was left. Michael still watching me said, "You stay here. I can go get it". He went to get up but I beat him to it. I walked to the bedroom door in a hurry and said, "I'll be right back. I just need a few minutes". I left the room before he had the chance to get up or oppose. Michael was wise and I knew he would understand my need for a few moments alone.

The big house was surprisingly quiet in the dead of night. I walked carefully trying to avoid any creaking boards as I headed down the stairs. The last thing I wanted to do was wake up the pack. They deserved their rest after the long run we had earlier in the night.

My skin had goosebumps the longer I was away from the warm bed and Michael's inviting arms. I thought about turning back and forgetting about my trip for water. Each step I took had my mind clearing of the fragmented dream. When I reached the kitchen I felt refreshed and more at ease. The dream had finally dissipated into nothing.

I walked into the kitchen and golden eyes faced me. My canines elongated rapidly and I stood ready to fight. One deep breath in and my body relaxed, it was just Eric sitting at the counter.