Chapter 14: A Lovely Day Off

Aurora woke up feeling refreshed and excited for her day off from school. She had plans to meet Liam for lunch, and she was looking forward to spending time with him in a relaxed setting.

As she got dressed and ready, she felt a sense of freedom and joy. No school, no homework, just a lovely day ahead.

After breakfast, Aurora decided to take a walk in the nearby park. The sun was shining, and the fresh air felt wonderful. She strolled along the path, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. As she walked, she thought about her life, her friends, and her feelings. She felt grateful for the good things in her life and reflected on how she could make the most of her time.

As she returned home, she saw her brother, Alex, sitting on the couch, playing video games. She smiled, remembering how they used to play together when they were younger. She sat down beside him, and they chatted about their favorite games and memories.

Their mom, Natalie, joined them, and they talked about their plans for the day. Aurora mentioned her lunch date with Liam, and her mom smiled, asking her to say hello to him.

With some time still left before lunch, Aurora decided to practice her guitar. She sat in her room, strumming the chords and singing softly. The music filled her with happiness and calmness.

A little while later, Rory stopped practicing and decided to get ready for her lunch date with Liam. She quickly prepared and left.

Aurora arrived at the café a few minutes early, wearing a bright smile and a comfortable outfit. She spotted Liam already seated at a cozy table by the window, looking handsome and relaxed. As she approached, he stood up and pulled out her chair.

They ordered their food and spent the first few minutes chatting about their morning and their shared excitement for the day off. Aurora felt at ease with Liam, enjoying his easygoing nature and sense of humor.

As they waited for their food to arrive, Liam asked her about her favorite music and books. Aurora was delighted to discover they shared a love for indie rock and classic novels.

When their food arrived, they dug in, savoring the flavors and each other's company. The conversation flowed effortlessly, covering everything from school gossip to their dreams and aspirations.

After finishing their lunch, Liam asked, "Hey, Aurora, want to come over to my place? I can teach you more guitar tricks and we can jam together."

Aurora agreed, and they left the cafe, strolling through the streets.

As they walked, Liam suddenly fell silent, lost in thought. Aurora noticed his distant expression and asked, "Hey, what's wrong? What are you thinking about?"

Liam shook his head, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Just thinking of your new nickname. I can't just call you Aurora all the time."

Aurora blushed and said, "You can call me Rory, it's easier."

But Liam chuckled. "Nah, not my style." He stopped walking and she stopped too, he then leaned towards her and whisper in her ear, "How about 'Little Wolf'?"

Aurora stiffened, her heart racing. Liam backed up and leaned closer to her face, his eyes locked on hers, and said "My little wolf". Aurora turned crimson red blushing and Liam withdrew and teases her about it with a grin on his face, "why are you so red like a tomato? Are you ok little wolf?"

Aurora nodded, still blushing furiously. Liam chuckled and said, "Come on, werewolf territory is just up ahead. Let's go."

As they walked towards Liam's home, a luxurious duplex in an upscale neighborhood, Aurora felt a mix of excitement and nerves. She had never been to his house before, and she knew that his family was quite wealthy and influential in the werewolf community.

Liam led her to the front door, which swung open to reveal a spacious and stylishly decorated interior. Aurora's eyes widened as she took in the grand foyer, marble floors, and sweeping staircase.

"Welcome to my humble abode," Liam said with a grin, gesturing for her to enter.

Aurora stepped inside, feeling a bit awestruck by the opulence surrounding her. Liam's family was indeed wealthy and influential, and their home reflected their status as the Alpha and Luna of the Moonstone pack.

As they entered the duplex, Liam said, "My dad's currently with the pack warriors, but my mom's here. She's probably in the kitchen, cooking up a storm."

They made their way to the kitchen, where the delicious aroma of roasting meat filled the air. Luna Annalise turned from the stove, a warm smile on her face. "Honey, you're home! And you brought a friend. Who's this?"

Liam introduced his mom, "Aurora, this is my mom, Luna Annalise. Mom, this is Aurora."

Luna Annalise's eyes sparkled with warmth. "You're welcome to our home, dear. Make yourself comfortable. I know you guys have probably had lunch, but you've got to at least get a taste of the roast beef I'm preparing. It's one of our pack's favorites."

She turned to Liam, "Honey, why don't you let Aurora sit at the table while you go get your sister? Emma's in her room upstairs, and your father will be home soon for lunch. I think Aurora and I can set the table while you go get your sister."

Liam nodded, gesturing for Aurora to take a seat. "I'll be right back, Little Wolf."

As Liam headed upstairs to fetch his sister, Luna Annalise smiled at Aurora. "So, dear, tell me a bit about yourself. What brings you to our neck of the woods?"

Aurora smiled, feeling a sense of belonging. "I actually just moved to Ashwood with my mom and big brother Alex. My mom used to run a restaurant, but now she works as the secretary for the council."

Luna Annalise's eyes sparkled with interest. "Welcome to Ashwood, dear! I'm sure it's a big change."

Emma bounced into the room, her curly brown hair bobbing with each step. "Mummy, Mummy! I heard we have a guest!" Her black eyes sparkled as she took in Aurora. "Hi! I'm Emma!"

Aurora laughed, charmed by the energetic eight-year-old. "Hi, Emma! Nice to meet you."

Luna Annalise smiled. "Emma, dear, why don't you go wash your hands for lunch? We'll be eating soon."

As Emma skipped off, Luna Annalise turned back to Aurora. "So, how are you finding Ashwood so far?"

Aurora shrugged. "It's been okay, I guess. Just getting used to a new town and school."

Luna Annalise's expression turned reassuring. "I'm sure everything will be fine soon, dear. You'll settle in and make new friends."

Just then, Alpha Eric entered the room, his firm features softening into a warm smile. "Hello everyone! I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Liam spoke up, "Dad, this is Aurora. We've been friends since the second day of school."

Alpha Eric's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled at Aurora. "Nice to meet you, Aurora. Welcome to our home."

Alpha Eric joined the group, his presence commanding but warm. "So, Aurora, Liam tells me you're enjoying music class at school."

Aurora smiled, feeling more at ease. "Yeah, I just started learning guitar in music class. I'm a total beginner!"

Luna Annalise nodded, her eyes sparkling. "Well, we're excited to have you share your new skill with us! Maybe you can play something for us soon?"

As they sat down to lunch, Emma peppered Aurora with questions, her curiosity and enthusiasm infectious. Alpha Eric and Luna Annalise joined in, asking Aurora about her interests and hobbies, making her feel like part of the family.

As they finished up lunch, Luna Annalise smiled warmly at Aurora. "It was wonderful having you over, dear. I'm so glad we got to meet you."

Alpha Eric nodded in agreement, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Yes, welcome to the pack, Aurora. You're always welcome here."

Emma hugged Aurora tightly. "I'll see you soon, Rory! We'll have so much fun playing together!"

Aurora smiled, feeling grateful for the warm goodbye. "Thanks, Emma. I'll see you soon!"

Liam walked Aurora home, the crisp afternoon air filled with the scent of blooming flowers. As they reached her front door, he turned to her with a smile. "Thanks for coming over, Little Wolf." Aurora's cheeks flushed slightly at the nickname, but she smiled warmly. "Thanks, Liam. I had a great time."

Liam stared at Rory for a while making her cheeks burn, then with a friendly nod, Liam turned and headed back down the path, leaving Aurora to wonder about the strange but wonderful feeling in her chest.