Chapter 34: James

“Beta? Jackson breaks through the mind link waking me. “James? Where are you?” “I’m out at Amalea’s house,” I reply groggily. “What? You better get back fast! The fight is set to start in less than an hour! I've been looking everywhere for you.” Shit. I didn’t mean to sleep so long. I sit up, slip on my shoes, wrap the flower chain neatly around my wrist for luck, and head for town.

I’m surprised by the turnout when I get there. Every member of the pack and then some seems to have gathered overnight. The streets are lined with cars, and there are people everywhere. It’s overwhelming after being so isolated in Cold Bay, almost suffocating, especially because people keep trying to talk to me.

Whether wishing me luck, offering me guidance, or sarcastically saying their goodbyes, they just won’t leave me alone. I just want to get to the arena. As my anger rises, a path begins to part for me until I run into Jackson.

“You’re clearly already in the right head space,” he laughs, “your ener