CHAPTER 2
As we made our way through the dark alley, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Adrien's presence. He had helped me feel safe and secure, and I knew I wouldn't have made it out without him. So, I turned to him and thanked him for his help.
To my surprise, Adrien accepted my invitation to join me in my store. We walked side by side, chatting about our lives and interests. Adrien was a great conversationalist, and I found myself enjoying his company more and more with each passing moment.
As we arrived at my store, we continued talking, getting to know each other better. The night seemed to slip away as we exchanged stories and shared our experiences. Adrien was an excellent listener, and I felt comfortable confiding in him.
I had forgotten something in my store, and Adrien graciously offered to keep me company while I searched for it. We continued talking, laughing, and enjoying each other's company. It felt like we had known each other for years.
Finally, I found what I was looking for, and we said our goodbyes. I felt grateful to have met such a kind and charming person like Adrien, he said he's going back for tomorrow suggesting that we're going to see each other for another day.
The sun has barely risen, and I'm already awake, unable to shake off the thoughts that have been haunting me since that night. I can't help but picture that night in the alley, the way he had appeared out of nowhere, the way he had saved me. I'm certain that it was him.
Since that night, I've been dying to ask him about it, but fear has held me back. Adrien is such a calm and collected person, and I don't want to risk scaring him away with my questions. But today, I've decided that I can't keep it bottled up any longer. Today is the day I will finally ask him.
I spend the entire morning trying to gather my courage, playing out different scenarios in my head and practicing what I'll say. I keep reminding myself that if he truly is the guy who saved me, he must care about me in some way. That thought alone gives me the strength I need.
As the day goes on, I can't help but glance at the door of my store every few minutes, waiting for Adrien to walk in. When he finally does, my heart skips a beat. He's wearing his usual charming smile, and I can't help but think how lucky I am to have met him, even if it was under such scary circumstances.
"Hey, Emilia," he greets me, his voice soothing and warm. "How are you today?"
"Hi, Adrien," I reply, trying to keep my voice steady. "I'm good, thanks for asking. How about you?"
"I'm doing well," he says, his eyes twinkling. "Just thought I'd drop by and see how you're doing."
I take a deep breath, feeling my courage rise within me. "Adrien, there's something I've been wanting to ask you."
His eyes meet mine, and I sense a hint of curiosity. "Sure, what's up?"
I hesitate for a moment, but then I remember the kindness he showed me that night, and I know that I have to ask. "Adrien, were you the one who helped me in the alley that night? I know it might sound strange, but I just can't help but feel that it was you."
For a moment, there's silence. Adrien looks at me, his eyes searching mine, and I worry that I may have freaked him out. But then, he smiles gently and nods.
"Yes, Emilia, it was me. I didn't want to bring it up because I didn't want to scare you, but I'm glad you asked. I care about you, and I'm glad I was there to help you."
A wave of relief washes over me, and I can't help but smile back. "Thank you, Adrien. I don't know what would have happened if you hadn't been there."
As Adrien and I continue to chat, my curiosity about werewolves grows stronger. I've always been a bookworm, and I've read countless stories about folklore and mythical creatures. The idea of meeting someone who could shed light on this mysterious world fills me with excitement.
"Adrien," I say, my voice filled with enthusiasm, "I have so many questions about werewolves. I've read about them in books, but I've never had the chance to talk to someone who knows about them. Would you mind if I asked you a few questions?"
Adrien chuckles a warm and endearing sound. "Of course, Emilia. I'm happy to help satisfy your curiosity."
"Alright," I begin, trying to keep my excitement in check. "First of all, how does one become a werewolf? Is it like the stories where you have to be bitten or is it something you're born with?"
Adrien thoughtfully considers my question before responding. "It can be both. Some werewolves are born into it, inheriting the ability from their parents. Others can become werewolves through a bite or a scratch, but it's not guaranteed. There's a lot of variation and complexity to it."
I nod, taking in this new information and comparing it to the stories I've read. "And what about the full moon? Does it cause a loss of control and make werewolves transform?"
Adrien smiles a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Yes, the full moon does play a significant role in our lives. During a full moon, our senses and abilities are heightened, and it's more difficult to control our transformations. However, with proper training and discipline, some werewolves can maintain control."
Fascinated, I continue to ask more questions about werewolf society, their abilities, and their limitations. Adrien patiently answers each one, providing me with a deeper understanding of the world I had only ever read about in books.
As we talk, I can't help but feel grateful for this unique opportunity to learn from someone with firsthand knowledge of werewolves. It's a dream come true for a bookworm like me, and I'm thankful that Adrien is willing to share his experiences with me.
As the conversation winds down, I look at Adrien with a newfound sense of awe and admiration. "Thank you, Adrien, for sharing all this with me. I've always been curious about werewolves, but I never thought I'd have the chance to talk to one. This means a lot to me."
Adrien smiles warmly, his eyes shining with sincerity. "You're welcome, Emilia. I'm glad I could satisfy your curiosity. And remember, if you ever have more questions, don't hesitate to ask."
With that, our conversation comes to a close, and I can't help but feel as if I've just experienced a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. As Adrien leaves my store, I find myself eagerly anticipating our next encounter, eager to learn even more about the fascinating world of werewolves.
As our conversation continues, I notice that Adrien seems genuinely interested in my life as well. He listens attentively as I share my experiences and curiosities.
"So, Emilia," he says, his voice full of genuine interest, "tell me more about yourself. What got you into reading and folklore? And how did you end up owning this store?"
I can't help but smile, touched by his concern for my life. "Well, I've always been a bookworm," I explain. "Ever since I was a little girl, I've loved getting lost in the pages of a good book. My parents used to read me bedtime stories, and I would beg them to continue long past my bedtime."
Adrien chuckles softly, clearly able to picture a young me begging for more stories. "I can imagine that," he says with a grin.
"As for folklore," I continue, "I've always been fascinated by the unknown and the mysterious. There's something so magical about the idea that there might be hidden worlds and creatures just beyond our understanding. My love for folklore led me to study literature in college, where I took courses on mythology and the history of storytelling."
Adrien nods, clearly impressed. "That sounds incredible. And what about the store?"
I smile, recalling the journey that led me to where I am today. "After college, I worked at a bookstore for a few years, but I always dreamed of having my place. When the opportunity arose to buy this store, I took a chance and went for it. It's been a lot of hard work, but I love being surrounded by books all day and sharing my passion for reading with others."
Adrien looks around the store, taking in the shelves filled with books and the cozy atmosphere. "It's a beautiful place, Emilia. You should be proud of what you've created here."
My heart swells with happiness and pride at his words. "Thank you, Adrien. That means a lot to me."
As we continue to talk, I realize that Adrien and I share a genuine connection. He seems to truly care about my life and my interests, just as I care about his. Our conversation flows effortlessly, and I find myself feeling more and more comfortable in his presence.
Just as I'm about to ask Adrien another question, the door to my store opens, and a tall, muscular man with a serious expression on his face walks in. He glances around the store before his eyes land on Adrien, and I can tell that they know each other.
"Adrien," the man says in a firm, authoritative voice, "we need to go. There's something we need to take care of."
Adrien looks at me apologetically, a hint of regret in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Emilia. I have to go. Duty calls."
I nod, trying not to show my disappointment. "Of course, I understand. I'll see you around, Adrien."
Adrien smiles warmly at me before turning to leave with the man. As they walk out the door, I can't help but wonder what kind of responsibilities Adrien has as part of his pack. The mysterious and intriguing world of werewolves has been opened to me, and I'm eager to learn more about it.