I left Elara's chambers feeling like I'd been handed a crushing burden. The weight of Luca's medical expenses settled heavy on my shoulders, and I couldn't shake the feeling of dread that had taken up residence in my stomach.
As I walked through the winding corridors of the sanctuary, I tried to clear my head. I needed a plan, and fast. But every door I passed led only to more questions. How would I raise the funds? Where would I even start?
I finally found myself at the entrance of the sanctuary, staring out at the bustling streets of the city. The sounds and smells of everyday life seemed distant, muffled by the weight of my responsibilities.
And then, a gentle voice broke the spell.
"Luna? Are you okay?"
I turned to see Aria standing beside me, concern etched on her face.
"Aria" I called before running to hug her as my sobs came out loudly as I cried loudly on her shoulders while she patted my back in a soothing manner whispering ''It'll be ok" But she didn't understand.
I shook my head, feeling a lump form in my throat. "I'm not okay, Aria. Luca's medical bills are piling up, and I have no idea how I'm going to pay them. And to make matters worse, I'm jobless." I rapped while Sobbing loudly.
Aria's expression turned sympathetic. "Oh, Luna, I'm so sorry. I had no idea it was that bad." She said
I took a deep breath, trying to hold back tears. "I need to find a job, and fast. But it's not easy, especially since I... since I don't exactly have the best reputation among the humans." I said as I felt a Pang on my head knowing fully well it was The result that came from Overthinking.. but why won't I overthink when my only Love is in the Hospital.
Aria nodded understandingly. "I know it won't be easy, but we'll figure something out. You can't give up, Luna. Luca needs you."
I nodded, determination rising within me. "You're right. I'll do whatever it takes. Even if it means working with humans." I said
Aria's eyes widened in surprise. "Luna, are you sure? You know how they can be..." She trailed off scratching the back of her head.
I steeled myself. "I know. But I have no choice. I'll swallow my pride and do what needs to be done. For Luca, and for myself." I said as I wiped my eyes to get a Clearer vision
"I can do it, Aria. I'll find a job and pay off Luca's medical bills. I'll do whatever it takes." I Told her running my hands through my hair.
Aria's expression turned serious. "Luna, I know you're determined, but you have to be careful. You can't just go in there and be yourself. You have to... hide who you are, at least for now." She explained as I kept Nodding my head
I nodded, understanding. "I know. I'll put on a mask, pretend to be someone I'm not. I'll do whatever it takes to get the job and earn the money." I joked about the mask stuff before she laughed quietly.
Aria's eyes narrowed. "Just remember, Luna, you're not just doing this for Luca. You're doing it for yourself, too. Don't lose sight of that." Aria stated.
I took a deep breath, steeling myself for what lay ahead. "I won't, Aria. I promise." I said
Aria's expression softened. "Good. Now, get some rest. I have school tomorrow, and I can't afford you to be tired." She said before Chuckling though I knew it was a forced one.
I rolled my eyes, but smiled. "Yeah, yeah. I know. I'll be fine, Aria. Thanks for worrying about me." I said.
Aria smiled back. "That's what friends are for, Luna. Now go get some sleep." Aria said as I smiled at her before nodding.
Here's the continuation:
Aria and I sat in silence for a moment, the only sound being the distant howling of wolves. Then, Aria spoke up, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Do you miss him, Luna?"
I nodded, feeling a pang in my heart. "So much, Aria. It's like a part of me is gone."
Aria's eyes welled up with tears. "I miss him too. I keep thinking he'll walk through the door, smiling and joking like he always did."
I took a deep breath, trying to hold back my own tears. "He's not dead , Aria. He's not gone." I said as a Tear slid down my cheek
Aria's face crumpled, and she buried her face in her hands. I pulled her into a hug, holding her tightly as she sobbed.
After a few moments, Aria pulled back, wiping her tears away. "I know, Luna. I just... I wish things were different..like it didn't happen and all."
I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat. "Me too, Aria. Me too."
We sat in silence for a moment, lost in our own thoughts. Then, Aria spoke up again.
"Luna, have you thought about the job? What are you going to do?"
I shrugged. "I don't know. I'll figure something out. I have to." I said my voice Unintentionally Nonchalant.
Aria nodded. "You will. You're strong, Luna." She Stated while I just looked at her
Before smiled weakly. "Thanks, Aria."
Aria yawned, covering her mouth with her hand. "Sorry, I'm just really tired. School was exhausting today." She said
I nodded. "Go to sleep, Aria. We can talk more in the morning." I told her
Aria nodded, snuggling under the blankets. "Night, Luna."
"Night, Aria." I said as I noticed she was already sleeping
As Aria drifted off to sleep, I lay awake, my mind racing with thoughts of Luca, the job, and the uncertain future ahead. But as I listened to Aria's soft breathing, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. I'd get through this, together, with her support… I'll bring help Luca.
Slowly, my eyelids drooped, and I let sleep claim me, the sound of Aria's gentle snores lulling me into a restless slumber.