18: Others
Anyra
I sit at the kitchen table with a mug of hot coffee in my hands. I hold the mug close to my body, letting the coiling steam rise from the rim and onto my face as I hunch down to take a sip.
I don’t need the added energy. I already feel like a thousand volts of electricity are being shot through my veins, but the aroma of fresh coffee settles my mind with thoughts of comfort.
My mom appears in front of me and sets a single cupcake on the table. She smiles and says, “Happy birthday. How are you feeling?”
I set the mug down and look at her. “Nervous,” I say honestly and drag the cupcake closer. A candle sits in the center, a bright flame dancing on the wick.
She nods. “I was too my first time. There is nothing to fear, though. It’ll be painless. Don’t hold back when it happens. Let your wolf come to you, embrace her, and be a part of her as she becomes a part of you.”