New Wolf novel Chapter 121

"If you pinch me one more time, I will bite your fingers off."

"Awe, is Hannakins getting mad? Is she gonna bite me?"

"Pinch me and we'll find out."

Charlie smiled tentatively. "Not bring up negative things, but, but you're just like Mom, you know?"

"What was it like? To have her around, I mean?"

"She yelled a lot," He chuckled. "that's one thing. And she likes to wack me in the head with practically anything she finds. But she was stronger than anyone I've ever known. I can see where you get it from... It wasn't easy for her to leave you, Hanna, but it was the only way to keep you safe. I wish I got to know you all of these years, cause it kinda sucked being an only child." He laughed.

I smiled. "Same."

"I wish I had the courage to come see you when I wanted because I knew where you were. But every time I bring it up, she would get angry. I had let it go for a while until I found out we went to the same school. I wasn't going to let you know who I was, but I was gonna try to at least be your friend."

"You kinda ruin that chance the moment you opened your mouth."

"I figured."

"I forgive you, though."

Charlie chuckled. "Thank you."

"But, me too," I smiled. "I'd like to hang out with you sometimes-"

"Hero!" I heard Troy's voice. "Let's get this show on the road!"

I haven't talked to Troy since we came back from Tylon, and honestly, I missed him. He doesn't remember anything that happened and Alaric and I agree it was better to keep it that way. But it doesn't stop my heart from clenching in my chest at the sight of him. The pain I took from him was horrible, but it was the feelings that came along with made it hard for me to sleep that night. He wasn't happy, he wasn't carefree, yet he acts as if these things pertained to him. He's been alive for so long and he's been suffering all this time. It's not like he could have said he didn't want to be a soldier. It was his duty, it was in his blood.

For the first time in years, I was utterly fearless. The power surging through my veins felt intoxicating as if my blood was being monopolized by a warrior's pure vengeance. I wasn't complaining about the unfortunate circumstances to befall in my life. I wasn't fretting over what I will encounter on the battlefield. I didn't need anyone to save me.

I was Hanna Greenbay.

I am Hanna Greenbay.

When we made it to the landbridge, Troy reminded me that Alaric would be waiting for us at the kingdom's entrance. I nodded in understanding and as I went to open my mouth, he whirled Barack around. I've been getting the feeling that he's avoiding me ever since we started on the path in the woods. Whenever I would catch up to him, he would abruptly nudge Barack's side and he'd increase his speed.

Annoying? Yes. But at least I know he knows I exist. After he woke up from to Norway, he barely spoke a word to me until I didn't really see him at all. Alaric would always tell me he's out with Barack whenever I release a long sigh in his presence.

I guess he was right when he said Barack would be good for him. Troy was an adult, but in a way, like a young child. You can't keep too far away from him, but at the same time can never let him know you're watching him. I want to be there for him, but I can't offer anything but words. I feel that Barack will help him find whatever he is looking for because, for once, his life is intertwined with another. Barack needs him to survive as much as Troy needs him. And by the way it's looking right now, I don't think I should add myself to the equation. I should probably let him be while his heart isn't stirred.

"Hanna," Charlie grabbed my arm. "it's time."