When he had parked the car in front of my house I waited for him to get out first, letting him get my door too. He hadn't said much the whole car ride, never ignoring me but he was full of thought.
I got out, standing aside on the sidewalk as he shut the door. The sun was beginning to set and the clouds were mixing together to create an array of pinks. I swallowed when he turned to face me again, putting his hands into his pockets after he brushed back some of his loose hair.
''Do you wanna come in for a bit?'' I offered, not wanting our time to end especially when I knew things weren't right for him.
Julien thought on it, really thinking before he answered. ''I should get back, I have to drive so.'' I nodded, it would take longer then him just running back. He smiled though, making me look up at him before I fully looked down.
''What are you doing tomorrow?'' He asked, his smile growing once he asked. Knowing the want to spend time together.
However I remembered Dean and I's camping trip for my birthday, leaving tomorrow in the morning. I had to pack tonight too.
''Dean and I are gonna drive out to a campsite; for my birthday.'' I told Julien before stepping a bit closer. ''I'll let you know where we go. You can come see me on my birthday?''
It was an offer and a question, both wanting him to but not sure of his plans either. He had asked when my birthday was. I noticed his expression though. ''You're going camping?'' He asked and I nodded.
''We've done it a few years in row now.'' I explained unsure why he seemed to be confused by my plans. Did he want to do something?
''Pax, Daven is still free.'' He told me and I sighed. Right, Daven. I had a plan for that.
I can spell the ground something lies on too, making it safe for a couple nights. I was going to bind it to the moon cycle for the nights we are there.
''He isn't going to ruin my birthday Julien. Dean will be there and you'll come say hi right; check the area if you want?'' I asked again, Daven will not have me hiding on my birthday; definitely not this one.
Julien let out a small sigh as he closed his eyes, looking incapable of arguing with me on it. Then he smiled upon looking back at me. ''I'd love to come, and hopefully do more then just check the area out.'' I nodded; absolutely.
I really just wanted to see him, he did not actually have to check out the area. I just know how he is with that stuff. It felt good that he didn't argue me on still going, despite seeing him very much want to but I know he just wants to keep me safe and I wouldn't be mad at that. I really couldn't be mad at him at all though; to be fair.
''Let me know when you get back safe.'' I know I shouldn't keep him any longer from starting the long drive ahead. Julien nodded and looked at me, either wanting something or to say more.
''I've wanted to kiss you the whole car ride.'' He finally let it out and my smile couldn't get any bigger. I stepped forward on the sidewalk and leaned up, Julien met me with his lips the rest of the way. Kissing me slow before a quick one and I kept the kiss going a bit more before I pulled back for a breath.
I blinked as I looked up at him, still close but his eyes were also so intense after. His want clear. If he didn't have his drive I would invite him in, wanting to just kiss him all day. His lips were so soft, so gentle and he was just plain good at it.
How I wanted to just drag him into the house with me. I didn't however and pulled back further. He said he wanted the kiss and he got one, he does have things to do and so I. We agreed on him calling when he got back to the pack house; I'd be done packing by then dinner would be done too.
Once I finished packing I went downstairs to have dinner with my parents, unaware they were making this my birthday dinner.
''Surprise!'' They both said at the same time when I entered the dining room, lost in thought and not fully paying attention.
''I thought we were going to do this when I get back?'' We said we'd do it Tuesday night. I smiled none the less, a good surprise. I just wasn't expecting it.
There was a cake, a couple wrapped presents and a box from the attic? I turned my head at the sight of it. Finding it strange to be everything else.
''I personally couldn't wait any longer to give you your present.'' My dad spoke up, smiling too before placing his hand on his chest. None of us were very good at waiting when it came to presents; giving them that is.
I moved to sit, pulling out a chair and they followed; excited for me to blow out the candles before everything else. I smiled and held my hair back when I leaned forward to do so. Closing my eyes when I found my wish for the year; having taken me a bit longer this time.
I wish that Julien and his pack succeed in catching Daven. Whether I be a part of it or not.
My dad already had the knife to cut the cake, doing so rather quickly after my wish and the candles blew out. I smiled at the both of them, I was so happy; like more then normal. I loved my parents but I have everything with Julien now. All I needed was the camping trip tomorrow morning and my birthday would be perfect.
''Okay well dad is finishing his cake, open the presents.'' My mother sat after taking the candles out and pushed one of the presents open.
I pushed my cake slice aside and sat up to unwrap it.
''Since your 18 the grimoire is officially passed down to you.'' She told me once I looked at it. Technically I would be in charge of the coven now too, no one else to be considered with just her and I.
''Thank you.'' She nodded but spoke before I could say much else on it.
''Open this one too.'' She pushed it over and I figured this one was from dad but she was too excited about me opening it.
I looked at her once more with a smile and opened it. A custom green bound journal with a matching pen inserted inside a tiny holder for it on the side. I looked up at her, a little surprised considering I didn't really write.
''For your own spells,'' She told me once seeing my confusion. ''Open it.'' She gestured with her hand and I opened the cover.
I read the words, faded by time but still clear. I wasn't sure why but tears flushed to my eyes as I read them. I never even met her. I looked up with a breath, trying to not let them fall over something so simple.
My great grandmother had a vision of me being born, getting her gift and she wanted me to have this. A message that read I'd figure everything out, she'd seen it with many other things I'm sure. She wanted me use this for either spells or to right down visions had she had done, finding it helpful.
I turned my head when my mothers eyes watered as well and she got up to hug me. The tears falling free but no more followed.
She pulled back to pull the box over. ''This was some of her stuff I thought you might like or find useful as she did.'' I looked in to see mainly journals but also a crystal ball.
''Alright before you start digging into it, time for your last gift from us.'' My dad spoke, getting our attention before he stood; his slice of cake gone and plate clean.
I stood too, to follow him. Not sure why I had to go somewhere to get the gift and in the garage? My dad smiled as he turned around to face me, opening the door without looking and I peered around him.
'No way.'' I said upon seeing it as I made my way down the few steps into the garage fully. A freaking car.
I turned and hugged him, knowing this was probably his idea. He was the one excited about it after all. He hugged me back, giving me a squeeze before I heard him sniffle and pulled back.
''Dad?'' I said but hugged him again after I looked up at him, his eyes watering.
''Your turning 18, I mean; just don't disappear on me.'' He pulled back, holding my shoulders as he looked at me; his request easy.
''I'm not going anywhere dad.'' I told him before he reached into his pocket; pulling out keys once he took his hands from my shoulders.
''These belong to you then.'' My dad smiled, still a little emotional but happy none the less.
I gladly took them, excited for it. Sadly I probably wouldn't be driving it too much knowing how much Dean enjoyed it. Now I could go visit Julien though; I just needed his exact address.
I thanked them both several more times before we hung out a bit more and then we all headed off to bed after cleaning things up and I collected all my gifts. Although I was excited about it all I wanted to start the book that Julien gave to me.
Once I doubled checked I packed everything and left the bag open for me to put it in later, wanting to bring a few books for reading at night; I laid down in bed and got comfortable to open the book. I was going to read every detail and not skip through it. This is important and I wanted to know Julien, his wolf side.
Wolfs were bound to the moon, there wolf side coming out more then ever on full moons, most forced to change but also easier for those who can control themselves fully. There was stuff on turned vs bitten, still having the same abilities but far easy for wolfs born then bitten.
I got through about a quarter of the book before my phone rang and I picked it up blindly to place a book mark into the page I was going to stop at, not gong to ruin his book; even if he said what's his is also mine.
''Hey, Pax; I'm home.'' I smiled and fully closed the book as I sat up. His voice just did something to me.
''Hey Julien.'' Was all I said as I put the book into my bag and zipped it up. I had packed the grimoire I had already started to learn too. My main form of reading well camping this trip. I'd enjoy sitting under the stars next to the camp fire for the majority of the nights though; plenty satisfied with that.
''I got info on that witch.'' He led with that but was hesitate about it still. ''Her name is Katy and she's his pack witch.'' I knew he wanted to say more, probably what I've heard before; he doesn't trust her. Especially given she is his pack witch, but I was Julien's pack witch now and I'd help him.
I wasn't saying I trusted her but she deserved a chance. I knew that.
''Do you know where his territory is then?'' If he knew more about his pack maybe he had a source who knew him and where he was located.
I folded a spare blanket for the trip and placed it atop the bag. All I would need in the morning would be a pillow; and of course Dean.
''Yes.'' Julien answered me, simply with just a yes. But I needed more, more information.
''So; what's the plan, what are you going to do?'' I moved back to my bed and laid back down on my back, looking up at the ceiling; adjusting my hair before I fully laid.
''The Elder's already checked his territory, none of his pack have even been there for weeks.'' I sighed before I bit my lip, I suppose that makes sense; they probably knew where he lived right away.
I learned from the book, the Elder council consisted of 9 Alphas who make decisions together on werewolf's matters, they kept the rules going and keep those who are following it in check. Given the title of elder once they have passed their pack down but still remain just a strong and wise; very few considered for such a job.
''I'll figure this out Pax, I got some alphas numbers who knew Daven and they've got to know something.'' Julien explained, having heard my sigh but It wasn't at him; I just don't want Daven free and I have this vision hanging over me.
Not knowing if that will be the only other time he tries to attack me or if he will try before then or even after; no time frame of when the vision I had will take place.
''I'm not worried about that; I know you will. Thank you for looking into Katy by the way.'' I added, knowing he was both doing everything he could and more. It made me happy that he both wanted to help me but also keep Daven away from everyone.
I also knew he did not plan on looking for Katy if I hadn't asked him too. Still thankful none the less.
''You know, I could still help.'' I offered with his silence, not convinced of himself.
He sighed, not fond of the idea at all. ''Have you found something other than wondering?'' That method already known to not be approved by him; too dangerous.
I rolled over to my stomach and pulled the phone away from my hear to put on speaker, pretended he was right here in the room with me; his voice louder and sounding like it surrounded me with my eyes closed.
''That would work, I'm not asking to do it all by myself; I'd need you to ground me anyways and I'd be in almost a trance state so you'd get to keep me safe too.'' I told him, getting the chance to actually explain it a bit more. However I had a plan forming with my new spells. Knowing some of the moon and my boundary spell. With a place to start I was getting how spells were put together.
''And what if you wondering is exactly how your vision started, what if we do but he still ends up corning you in that classroom?'' Julien asked frustrated with our situation as I was, not knowing about when the vision will happen or if it even could be prevented.
I opened my eyes, picturing the concern and anger; not wanting to see him that way.
''You still save me Julien.'' I told him, knowing that part for sure. Whether he wanted to believe in himself or not that is a fact. I looked to my phone, wanting to feel his comforting energy and it hit me. I swallowed at my realization; I love him.
It came with another realization, why hasn't he said it yet? He claims to feel this all more then I do but if I love him how could he not?
''I should get some rest; Dean once choose a site that was almost half a day's drive and he wake's me up early.'' I told him before he could respond. I'd get to see him when we got there too and the sooner I got to sleep the sooner that would be. I'd feel better with his presence.
''Call me when you get there?'' He asked, double checking; I more then wanted to see him in person. I wanted to tell him I love him, hope he feels it too.
''Yeah, you could always text Dean too; he won't tell me but he'd tell you.'' If he didn't want to wait to find out where we will be going.
Julien agreed, liking the sound of knowing and once he agreed to it we said our temporary goodbye and goodnight. It was going to be hard to sleep without him and the excitement for our trip. With Daven running loose I haven't had much of a chance to spend time outside, a camping trip just what I'd need.
I texted Dean that I was going to sleep before plugging my phone in, wanting it fully charged for the trip. I would only turn it on a few time well out, save both our batteries for the whole trip.
A couple hours passed but eventually I fell asleep, helping myself by picturing Julien after staring at the ceiling for most the time I had laid there. I wanted to get more of the vision with Daven or even one of his capture; anything that could help really.
It's like the harder I tried the less I was able to see. With my phone ringing I blinked awake, adjusting to the light I took in with my eyes open before I reached to unplug it and answer it to stop the ringing. It was bright but It was still early.
This was Dean. ''Hello.'' I answered and sat up to fully stand and toss my pillow onto my bag on the way to the bathroom.
''Happy almost 18th birthday, you've got 20 minutes before the birthday bus leaves for the camping trip; If your late no smores.'' I gasped at the end of his statement.
''You'd deny me on my birthday trip?'' I asked and used the bathroom before getting my tooth brush out. Needing to get ready.
''This is an automated message, take it up with management or...don't be late.'' Dean spoke, trying to sound a bit more like a robot before he hung up. I would buy them myself if I was late and he really refused to.
I texted Julien a quick message that we would be heading to the sight and I'd call him as soon a we got there; not sure if he knew how long it would take or not. Dean didn't mention him texting him but he could have just left it out. Then I turned my phone off.
I finished in the bathroom and picked out an outfit, taking out my hiking boots and lacing them up before grabbing my bag to head downstairs. Mom and dad would still be sleeping so I tried to be quite, having said my goodbyes last night before bed.
It only took me 11 minutes to get ready and I was heading out the door, Dean had pulled his truck up in front of my house for me to easily put my stuff in the back before getting into his truck. He was very ready.
''How far is this one?'' I asked as I put my seatbelt on and he started the truck.
''I'm afraid that's classified.'' I rolled my eyes, sometimes he told me the distance and sometimes he deemed it to be 'classified'.
I got comfortable for however long it would be, watching some of the colors that were faded with the cloud as the sun was nearly fully up now.
''I got a car.'' I told him and felt him look at me. ''So, your gonna have to start letting me drive sometimes too.'' I glanced at him, curious if he would actually like a break or if he truly loved driving this much.
''I could consider that, but only consider; no promises just because it's your birthday soon.'' He smiled at me when he glanced at me from the road. Somehow he never needed direction to places, once he saw the route he could remember it without GPS or anything.
Considering it was better then no, maybe he truly would think on it. I would be convinced he loves driving if he says no. Only going to be able to drive myself places; those places being to Julien's and not much else.
Once we got closer to the site after talking about our last few days; the things that have happened to both us in our new seemingly busy life's. Dean brought us back to his plans for my birthday.
''So, I'm gonna head inside the store here; since you were on time I'm gonna get stuff for smores too. Don't turn your phone on. No cheating on where we are.'' He even had me look away from any signs when we passed them. Seeming for this site to be even more secret then the others.
I was so excited for the smores that I agreed though, having no problem waiting for us to get fully to the site before I texted Julien and my mom that we were here. Maybe he had told Julien, part of the reason why I couldn't turn it on yet.
I took my seatbelt off, knowing this would be the town we were camping near; not his longest drive yet. Only about two hours. I sat back and looked around, not seeing Dean and wanting to get a hint on our whereabouts.
Julien however didn't need Pax to call him, having indeed gotten the location of the campsite from Dean but sensing her the moment she entered his territory. Everything about her very distinct. Dean had chosen this site before Pax and Julien met; the goddess wanted them to meet one way or another.
I sat up, seeing Dean get stopped by an older looking man who had something to say to him. I couldn't see his face but Deans; appearing to be a bit shocked by what ever it had been before he excused himself, readjusting the paper bag he held before spotting me looking at him and he hurried.
''What just happened?'' I asked upon him opening the door and he slid the bag to the middle as he stepped up into the truck. Starting it before finally answering me; processing it.
''He said we should be careful if were heading up to the campsite, there's wolves in the woods. Said they can hear the howls from the valley.'' He told me, seeming spooked by it.
''Do you think he meant wolfs or werewolf's?'' Or perhaps wolfs but they are werewolf's; who knew now that they are out there. Dean looked at me, seeming to not want to answer my question. ''Where are we Dean?'' I asked but he looked past me to back out of the parking spot.
''You'll like this surprise if you just wait a few more minutes.'' He told me and I looked around even more as we drove, was I thinking correct that this was Julien's territory?
We hadn't driven into town so I didn't recognize anything but the drive was about the same and there are some kind of wolfs. I at least hoped Julien knew of where we are and this isn't some alpha we don't know or trust.
I waited as Dean asked of me, all the way past his few minutes until we got the the site. This town was both small but large; lots of land rather then buildings. The way up the mountain was quick, only about 5 minutes after our 20 minutes drive. The mountain was large, not the only way up it too. The campsite barely putting a dent in it.
''Okay. Start unpacking; I'll get the cooler set up.'' Dean looked over at me, and I looked at him like he was crazy. He was forgetting something.
''Where are we Dean?'' I asked, not moving as he had to open the door.
He looked back at me, seeing I had no intention of doing so. Then he nodded, letting is brain catch up. ''You can turn your phone on, text Julien and your mom.'' I raised an eyebrow at him before he turned and got out with the bag of our food.
I took a breath and got out, turning my phone on as I did so and opened the back part of the truck to make it easier for me to grab our things. He got the cooler and started his own assignment.
I placed my phone In my back pocket for it to fully turn on and got my bag and tent first, Dean could put his own tent together; not just dealing with the food. I placed both down beside each other and took a step back to put my hair up into a ponytail.
Once I did so I paused and glanced around, looking into the thick tree line that mostly surrounded us.
But then I sensed it, I nearly jumped into movement at it. ''Julien!'' I said before going toward where I felt him. A smile on my face as I got closer, not even hearing what Dean had said to me.
Maybe he should have just told me and not been all weird and vague. Even more so then usual.
''Hey beautiful.'' I heard him before I noticed him in the denseness of the untamed woods. My smile grew and I walked over to him to close the space.
I hugged him before I looked up at him and pulled back slightly. ''I hope you aren't only calling me that because it's my birthday.'' I was joking but I was pretty sure that was the first and only time he's said that me, obviously having gotten other compliments from him.
He nodded. ''Absolutely not, there is something to you being an adult soon though.'' He smirked down at me, moving his hands just slightly lower on my back. I however blushed at the notion and looked down.
I smiled to myself at the thoughts of what he could mean, having many options before my smile fell and I turned from Julien, his hands letting me go as I did so.
''Oh, good; you can help Pax set up her tent this year.'' Dean made the comment to me but it was his way of asking for help. He took a few more steps to get around a tree and stopped to look at us. ''I interrupted something didn't I?'' He asked, never meaning to but his timing was always perfect in doing so.
Julien hid his laugh better then mine but we headed back to where the camp was. Julien did in a way help put my tent together by just doing all the work. I instead helped him, giving him the next piece each time he placed another efficiently.
He finished the tent before Dean finished his and I was even able to put all my things inside it well Julien went over to offer his help when we noticed he had been the one who was struggling.
I sat on my cot as I placed my pillow and pulled out my phone to finally text my mom of our arrival. Once I sent the text and got her reply I shut it off again and placed it under my pillow.
Normally we did smore's at night but It was my birthday trip and I wanted them so well Julien finished helping Dean I stepped away to gather some firewood. Not aware neither of them had not noticed me exit the tent and head for the woods.
......To Be Continued In The Next Chapter.....