Luna Pandora's Revenge

Chapter 7

"I'm Tyler," he replied. He looked into my eyes, searching for any flicker of recognition. "I'm your brother, Anna. I'm so sorry I couldn't be here when mom and dad came earlier. We had a rogue attack in our territory, and I had to see to it, ensure the safety of our pack members."

"I heard your cries and came into the room just in time to see you kicking and thrashing in your sleep. It was quite distressing. Are you alright? What happened in your dream?"

"It was just a bad dream," I replied, attempting to brush it off. "Nothing to worry about, really. I'd rather not dwell on it."

Tyler's brows furrowed slightly, a flicker of concern crossing his face. "Anna, if something is troubling you, you can talk to me. We're family, and I want to help."

"I know it must be incredibly difficult for you, Anna. The accident was traumatic, and it's natural to feel shaken. But I want you to know that I'm here for you. We'll figure this out together."

Was he genuinely concerned about me, or was he merely putting on a facade, hiding ulterior motives beneath a brotherly guise?

"I appreciate your concern, Tyler. But right now, I need some time to process everything. It's all so overwhelming and I am still trying to piece everything together."

Tyler's expression softened, and he nodded understandingly. "Of course, Anna. Take all the time you need. Just remember that I'm here whenever you're ready to talk."

As I contemplated his words, Tyler's face brightened with a sudden realization. "Oh, before I forget," he said, stepping out of the room momentarily. When he returned, he held a bag in his hands, a faint smile playing on his lips.

"I brought something that might help jog your memory," he said, pulling out a carefully wrapped painting. It was a beautiful landscape, vibrant with colors and intricately detailed.

Tyler's eyes sparkled with anticipation as he presented the painting to me. It truly was a masterpiece, but it wasn't one that I had any capability of creating.

"This was one of your most stunning creations, Anna," Tyler said, his voice filled with warmth. "I remember how passionately you painted it, how it brought so much joy to you. It's one of the pieces that truly showcases your talent."

As I held the painting in my hands, I tried my best to make as if I remembered creating this masterpiece. "Oh, this is beautiful," I said, feigning a smile. "I remember working on it. The colors, the brushstrokes... it all feels so familiar."

Tyler's face lit up with joy. He appeared relieved that I was seemingly regaining some of my lost memories but he did not know that this was all just a facade.

"I spoke with the doctor earlier, and although your condition is stable, they mentioned that you might need a few more days before you can leave the hospital."

He gently placed his hand on my shoulder. "I know it's tough, but please understand that the doctors just want to ensure your full recovery. They need to be certain that everything is alright before you're discharged."

I nodded. "I understand, I suppose I'll have to be patient and trust that they have my best interests at heart."

"Exactly, Anna. Just a little more time, and soon you'll be back home with our family."

These people around me were strangers, and I couldn't trust their intentions. What awaited me once they took me back to the supposed safety of my home? Would they subject me to the same torment I endured under the hands of Xavier and Elena? Or was there something even worse awaiting me?

In the following days at the hospital, time seemed to pass quickly and without any suspicious incidents. Neither Elena nor Xavier made an appearance and everything was calm. My supposed family was treating me with kindness for the time being.

Gone were the days of excruciating pain and immobility. I could now move around with ease, the strength returning to my body. The doctors and nurses provided excellent care, monitoring my progress closely and ensuring that I received the necessary treatment and therapy.

Still, a sense of caution lingered within me. The absence of Elena and Xavier was unsettling, leaving me to question their whereabouts and intentions. Could they be plotting something behind the scenes, waiting for the perfect moment to strike?

Many times, I attempted to reach out to my wolf Ruby but I could not sense her presence. Ever since Elena had injected me with wolfsbane, she had vanished. I was worried about her and I hoped that she would return to me soon.

Finally, the day arrived for me to leave the hospital and return to the supposed safety of my home. Tyler, wearing a wide smile on his face, came to escort me back. I couldn't shake off the nagging feeling that something was amiss.

As I gathered my belongings and prepared to leave the hospital room, Tyler stood by my side, offering his support. He seemed genuinely relieved and excited about my recovery, but my wariness remained intact. I couldn't afford to let my guard down.

Together, we walked through the hospital corridors, passing by familiar faces of doctors and nurses who had become a part of my temporary sanctuary. Their well-wishes and kind words accompanied us, providing a semblance of comfort amidst the uncertainty that lay ahead.

Outside, the sunlight greeted me, its warmth a stark contrast to the sterile environment I had grown accustomed to. I hesitated for a moment, taking in the world beyond the hospital walls. It was a fresh start, a chance to reclaim my life, but at the same time, an enigma shrouded in doubt.

Tyler opened the car door, gesturing for me to get in. With a deep breath, I stepped inside, the door closing behind me. As the car pulled away from the hospital, I glanced out the window, watching the scenery pass by in a blur. Questions swirled in my mind, intertwining with a mix of fear, hope, and skepticism. What awaited me at my supposed home? Would it be a place of solace or a continuation of the nightmare I had endured?

Tyler glanced at me, his eyes filled with concern. "It's good to have you back, Anna," he said, his voice tinged with genuine warmth. "I've missed you so much. Our family has missed you."

How could I trust this person who claimed to be my brother? What did he truly want from me?

The car came to a stop before a large gate, guarded by a well-built black-haired man. He greeted us with a warm smile, his eyes reflecting genuine happiness. I glanced at Tyler, a question forming on my lips. "Who is he?"

Tyler turned to me. "Anna, this is Ivan," he explained. "He's the son of the beta of our pack. Ivan has been a close friend and ally to our family for many years."

Ivan approached my side of the car and extended his hand towards me, a friendly gesture. Reluctantly, I reached out and shook his hand, studying his face for any signs of deception or hidden motives. Ivan's grip was firm, his demeanor friendly, but my skepticism lingered. I couldn't afford to let my guard down, not yet.

"I'm so happy that you've recovered," Ivan said. "Your return is a cause for celebration within our pack. We've missed you, Anna."

As the gates swung open, revealing the sprawling grounds beyond, my eyes widened in awe. Before me stood a magnificent mansion, a sight that took my breath away. Its grandeur and elegance were unlike anything I had ever seen before. The mansion was a testament to architectural mastery, with its towering structure and intricate detailing. The surrounding grounds were meticulously landscaped, with vibrant flowers in full bloom and lush greenery that seemed to stretch endlessly.

As the car came to a stop in front of the mansion's entrance, I hesitated for a moment, taking in the sheer scale and beauty of the building. It was a place that could easily swallow me whole, enveloping me in its vastness.

"Welcome home, Anna," he said softly. "This is where you belong, with our family."

I stepped out of the car, my eyes scanning every corner of the impressive mansion before me. The architecture was a blend of classic and modern elements. The exterior was adorned with intricate carvings and elegant balconies, giving the mansion an air of sophistication and luxury. What secrets did this mansion hold? What truths would be unveiled once I crossed its threshold?

Tyler opened the grand door of the mansion and led me inside, stepping into a vast foyer that exuded elegance and opulence. The polished marble floors reflected the warm glow of the chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings, casting intricate patterns of light across the room. As we entered, a soft murmur of conversation reached my ears, and the aroma of delicious food wafted through the air.

Tyler approached an omega, who stood nearby, and whispered something in his ear. The omega nodded and quickly disappeared into the depths of the mansion, presumably to deliver the news of my arrival to my supposed parents.

Within moments, my mother appeared, her face lighting up with a mix of relief and joy. She rushed toward me, enveloping me in a tight embrace. "Oh, Anna, my darling, you're finally home!" she exclaimed, tears welling up in her eyes. Her embrace was filled with genuine warmth and love, but doubts still lingered in my mind.

My father soon joined us. "Welcome back, my dear," he said, his voice filled with affection. "To celebrate your return, we have prepared a feast in your honor. The entire pack is looking forward to seeing you."

"Oh, my dear Anna, you must be exhausted from the journey and all that you've been through. You need some rest before the feast tonight," my mother said. "I will help you get ready later on. Let me show you to your room."

My mother gently took my hand and led me up a grand staircase, guiding me through the corridors of the mansion. The walls were adorned with paintings and family portraits, each capturing moments frozen in time. The air carried a sense of history and tradition, whispering stories of generations past.

As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of detachment, as if I were an outsider navigating a world that was meant to be familiar. Finally, we reached my room, a spacious and beautifully furnished sanctuary. The bed looked inviting, adorned with soft pillows and a cozy duvet. The large windows allowed sunlight to filter in, casting a warm glow across the room. Everything was meticulously arranged, as if awaiting my return.

"I've kept your room just as you left it, Anna. I hope it brings you comfort and a sense of familiarity."

She guided me towards the bed, urging me to sit down. "Rest for a while, my dear. I will have a maid bring some refreshments up for you."

I nodded, sinking into the plush bed. As my mother left the room, closing the door gently behind her, I took a moment to survey my surroundings.The room had a serene ambiance, decorated with soft pastel colors and delicate furnishings.

There was a sudden knock at the door. Startled, I called out, giving permission for the person to enter. A maid entered the room, carrying a tray with a cup of tea and some light snacks. Her face displayed a warm smile as she set the tray down on a nearby table.

"Good afternoon, Miss Anna," she greeted me politely. "I hope you find the refreshments to your liking. If there's anything else you need, please don't hesitate to ask."

I thanked the maid, and as she left the room, I found myself once again facing the doubts that plagued my mind. The impending feast loomed ahead, an event filled with unknown faces and hidden intentions. Would attending the feast shed light on the truth, or would it only deepen the labyrinth of uncertainty?