-February-
Lyra meticulously placed serving dishes, full of aromatic foods, along the center of a long mahogany table. It was one of nine that filled the dining hall, seating over one hundred people. She was deeply engrossed in musing over the plot of her mystery latest novel and failed to notice the reaching hand before it sneaked a biscuit from the stack of bread.
"Hey!"
She slapped Ruben's hand, but he was too quick and had already tossed the entire biscuit into his mouth. The glint in his eyes shining above his chipmunk cheeks. He wiggled his fingers in front of Lyra's face, comically indicating that there was nothing to be guilty for.
"Mmm!" He moaned as he attempted to talk with his mouth overly stuffed, "Huhn afa gong fee fack foo-ay."
"Swallow." She scolded sternly, "I don't do the Heimlich on dumbasses."
Ruben choked a laugh, causing some crumbs to shoot out of his parted lips. This earned a threatening glare from Lyra. He gulped down the dry biscuit painfully and brushed the table with his hand. The cheeky grin never left his face. Lyra's expression remained impassive, but Ruben could see the corners of her eyes subtly crinkle. She always acted so aloof, but she secretly enjoyed his playful banter.
"The Alpha is going to be back today." He repeated, his voice was unabashedly excited.
Ruben idolized the Gibbous Peak Alpha. When first arriving, he was a little on guard, knowing how many packs treat newcomers. But without any place or anyone to call home, he suggested they try it out here. Honestly, he was more optimistic than he would admit to himself. Lyra, however, could easily recognize how sorely he wanted a community again. Ruben was adamant that they stick together. He said that if push came to shove, and the pack was misleading, they could always defect as rogues.
Within one month, the young Alpha had completely won over Ruben's loyalty and admiration. There was no ploy or presentation, since they rarely interacted with the man. He was usually holed up in his office or out of the packhouse managing his territory and businesses. Perhaps that actually played a part in earning respect, since he knew that he didn't need to make an effort to convince anyone. On its own, Alpha Cedric's capable leadership and policies earned not only Ruben's but all of the pack's continual respect.
Ruben was jabbering on while attempting to sneak another morsel. He didn't notice Lyra's body freezing in place momentarily at the mention of Alpha Cedric. She had been lucky so far since she was assigned to the kitchens, and he had been too busy to pay any mind to the refugees staying in his home. But when would her luck run out?
Lyra was perplexed on why she willingly stayed this long. At first, she was fairly certain that the others would not want to join the ruthless Basil Pack. And then her problems would be solved without airing out her dirty laundry. But now she kicked herself for not noticing the obvious signs that Gibbous Peak, albeit in the same location with mostly the same people, was not the pack of her childhood. She should have gotten the hint by the name change to start. Alpha Cedric's first impression was worlds apart from his fathers. The people living and working were all cheerful and outspoken, not having the fearful and suspicious nature from her memories. And yet, even as she put two and two together, she kept the status quo. Lyra didn't realize she had such self destructive urges. Maybe she was more selfless to Ruben's wishes than she realized. Or maybe her wild instinct drew her toward the forbidden fruit, to hell with the cost.
"Will he hold another entry trial then?" Lyra said, without ceasing her work.
Lyra knew Cedric was eager to join the warrior ranks. He was an adept warrior in his old pack before their small village was leveled by the hunters' attack. Then his life of imprisonment both developed and hampered his fighting ability in diverse ways.
"You know it! And this time I'll get in for sure."
Ruben stood back, crossing his toned arms over his chest. His smug posture was clearly showing off his physical fitness, as if it had anything to do with ability. The last entry trial took place shortly after they had arrived, he didn't stand a chance in his ragged condition. By now he'd gained at least sixty pounds, all in muscle. His extensive injuries were completely healed and even with the scars, his skin had a healthy glow. Lyra smiled at him, satisfied to see her best friend thriving and healthy.
He continued, "I've been training with Gamma Kennedy. He's got serious skills. There's a long list of wolves dying to train with him, too. Because he usually only works with the elite warriors. You know, thanks to him, I'm already more skilled than ever before."
"Maybe he identified your hidden talent." Lyra shrugged with an eyebrow raised. She gathered the serving trays and brushed the remaining crumbs from the table. Ruben looked at her suspiciously, waiting for the punchline. He was not disappointed.
"Of course, it's more likely that Dana convinced him to humor you out of pity."
Ruben scoffed and punched her arm as he followed her out of the dining room. Just before splitting into opposite directions down the hallway, Lyra gently smacked his chest with the empty trays she had in hand. He stopped, standing tall and looking down at her and the mischievous grin never leaving his face. His dirty blonde hair flowed about with a stylishly messy look, a few loose locks loosely coiled down his forehead. His hazel orbs were revitalized, glimmering with reawakened spirit.
She said, "Make sure you wash up before you come back for dinner. You reek."
"Yes, mother." He sang in response, then sauntered down the hallway. His jovial mood was contagious. Lyra's cheeks felt sore from both smiling and forcefully holding her smile back.