Seventy Two

Lenora

While I waited for CJ, the pack house buzzed with activity and kitchen operations. India organized the maids and worked relentlessly. The aroma of frying meat wafted through the air and the sound of knives chopping vegetables. I had to admit that despite India's disapproval of me, I enjoyed her cooking. She was a culinary wizard.

I could feel the pack house’s energy growing around me. Several leaders and the council gathered in the hall downstairs, waiting for CJ. In my mind’s eye, I imagined him walking in while I threw my arms around him and kissed him until I couldn't breathe

Weary of waiting, I fiddled around with my cell phone and occasionally looked up from it and scanned the gate in search of CJ. Then I headed upstairs and sat on an armchair overlooking the veranda to wait for him. The soft breeze rustled my hair making me shiver a little, and brought back memories of me, my dad, and his chimp, buddy.

I'd sit at the front porch behind my dad, braiding his long hair a