The pack
"Where's Chhaya?" I burst into the camp, my heart racing. Waya, Atohi, and Jane were gathered around the fire, the night alive with the sweet songs of birds and the soothing chirping of crickets.
Waya looked up, a flicker of concern in her eyes. "She said you two were going camping. She grabbed her stuff about an hour ago."
"Wait, what do you mean?" She's leaving, the thought hit me hard ripping my heart in two. I felt the ground shift beneath me as panic washed over me. My palms grew clammy with sweat. Why would she leave like that, without a word? My mind raced with questions, each one more frantic than the last.
I decide to grab my backpack and head out in search of her, hoping to find Chhaya before it gets too dark. With a flashlight in hand, I follow the trail she might have taken, determined to ensure she's safe and sound.
My feet crunched on the dirt, leaves, and earth beneath me. I knew she was upset about Saturn. The forest was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, the trees overhead filtering the moonlight, so it's only seen on the ground below. As the night's dark shadows danced among the trees, the rustling leaves suggested the presence of unseen creatures. I hoped there were no demons; I didn't want a fight alone. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the distant hoot of an owl, creating an eerie yet oddly comforting feeling that accompanied my search. I was so frustrated with myself; I should have never let this happen. Love triangles are complicated. I should have been smarter about this.
"Chhaya!" I shouted into the darkness, my voice echoing back to me as I frantically searched for her. Where could she be? The night deepened around me, the only light coming from the pale glow of the moon filtering through the trees.
"Chhaya, joined us!" I heard Cedric's voice cut through the night, a cruel laugh following his words. Though I couldn't see him, I could sense his presence lurking, waiting to toy with my fears.
"Come out and face me!" I demanded, anger growing within me.
With a sinister chuckle, he stepped into view, emerging from a thick layer of trees. "Where is she?" I spat, my voice low and vicious.
"Safe... for now," he replied with a smirk that sent a sickness to my stomach.
"What do you want with her?" I pressed, my heart racing.
"Nothing much," he sneered. "She's just a pawn in this game."
I rolled my eyes, feeling the heat of anger rise in my cheeks. "I'm not playing games, Cedric. If she's harmed in any way, I swear, I'll tear you apart."
He leaned back, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "The deal is simple: I'll return Chhaya if you leave Saturn alone." His words hung in the air, a twisted proposition that left me staggering. I know I love Saturn; she's my mate, but I have to play along. I will for Chhaya.
"I was never interested in her; she means nothing to me. But Chhaya, she means everything to me, everything."
"So we have a deal," he said, reaching out his hand. I rolled my eyes and shook it. "I want her back at camp before morning, unharmed, or the deal is off."
"Yes, sir," he hissed as I walked away.