As Rylan watched the interaction unfold between his mother and Lucian, a sense of relief washed over him. Perhaps they could navigate the day together without drawing undue attention. The sweet, delicate flavor of the moonflower pastries filled his senses, and he savored the moment; it was a celebration of their friendship and the festival itself.

However, as the afternoon wore on, the festivities continued, leading them toward the grand feast that the village had prepared. Rylan was seated at the long wooden table beside his father, who proudly filled his plate with generous portions of roasted meats and colorful vegetables. Lucian took the seat next to him, the tension in the air sharpening slightly as a few of the guards shot suspicious glances their way, whispering amongst themselves.

Yet it was Rylan’s little sister, Celeste, who questions bubbled with unfiltered curiosity. With wide innocent eyes, she leaned closer to Lucian. “Why are you wearing that mask? And why do you have such bright red eyes?” she asked, her voice echoing with curiosity that filled the air like the scent of roasting meat from the feast.

“Celeste, hush,” Rylan whispered, trying to shush her as he subtly shot a glance toward his father, who was already eyeing Lucian with a mixture of intrigue and concern.

But then the presence of the grand feast silenced the table, as platters piled high with food were laid out, and everyone began to partake in the annual celebration. Laughter and chatter filled the air as stories began to flow, tales steeped in tradition and shared over generations.

After the meal, as twilight descended, everyone gathered around a large bonfire that crackled and spat sparks into the night sky. Shadows danced across the faces of the villagers as they settled onto logs and benches, surrounded by the warm glow of the flames. It was time to share Wolfbane stories—tales of hunts, bravery, and the connection between their people and the wild.

An elder, with deep-set eyes and a voice that resonated like the distant rumble of thunder, started the first tale. “Long ago, when the moon hung low and the nights were thick with shadows, the Wolfbane clan faced a mighty beast that threatened our very existence. It was a creature of darkness, a shadow born from ancient fear.”

He spoke in hushed tones, weaving a narrative rich with the magic of the Wolfbane's past. Paintings of courage filled the air as he described how the bravest hunters banded together, armed only with their wits and the strength of unity.

“They traveled deep into the heart of the forest, where no light dared penetrate,” he recounted, “guided only by the flicker of their torches. They fought valiantly, with the howl of wolves echoing in their hearts, until finally, with a final roar, they drove the beast back into the shadows, securing our land for generations.”

Rylan listened intently, the flickering flames casting vibrant colors across Lucian’s face. Lucian, too, seemed absorbed by the tales, though Rylan could feel the weight of unspoken thoughts lingering beneath his mask.

One by one, other villagers stood to share their own stories—tales of great hunts where packs of courageous hunters pursued game through treacherous terrain, showcasing not only their strength but also the camaraderie that defined the Wolfbane spirit. Rylan's heart swelled with pride as the tales unfolded, every story deepening the connection to his roots and his people.

But as the moon climbed higher in the sky, bathing the gathering in silvery light, Rylan noticed that the guards grew more wary, their eyes scanning the crowd. Lucian, ever perceptive, tugged at Rylan’s arm, pulling him slightly closer, whispering just above the crackle of the fire, “We should be cautious. They are watching us.”

Rylan nodded, more aware than ever of their surroundings. “I know. But it’s just one night, right? I don’t want the magic of this festival to end because of their suspicions,” he replied, hoping to reassure them both.

“True,” Lucian agreed, a subtle smile breaking through the tension. “But sometimes magic comes with its own risks.”

“Then let’s enjoy it,” Rylan insisted, taking a deep breath. “We’ll stay close and make the most of this night.”

But through the stories and laughter, he couldn’t shake the feeling that the tension in the air was growing, like a storm cloud building on the horizon. And as Lucian listened, Rylan found himself both captivated by the tales around the fire and anxious about the shadows that lingered—waiting to see what the night would reveal.

As Rylan and Lucian stepped into the lively heart of the village, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped them. Music floated through the air, a joyful tune played by street performers, while the laughter of children mingled with the shouts of vendors promoting their wares. Little Wolfbanes darted through the crowd, their colorful kites fluttering above like vibrant butterflies, adding to the festival's charm.

Yet, despite the festivities, Rylan couldn't help but notice how the guards' eyes narrowed at Lucian, their suspicion palpable. The dark cloak and hood covered his pale skin, but his crimson eyes, gleaming bright even beneath the shadows of the mask, caught attention like flames in the dark. Rylan noticed how Lucian’s demeanor shifted slightly, an air of tension surrounding him as curious glances followed their path.

Determined to shake off the unease, Rylan excitedly pulled on Lucian's hand, leading him away from the wary stares toward the center of the festival. "Come on! I want to show you the ring fights!" he exclaimed, his voice bubbling with enthusiasm.

They made their way to the circular enclosure bordered by wooden fences and a rope wall, where two Wolfbanes donned in war armor faced off. The crowd roared with encouragement, cheers and jeers filling the air as the fighters clashed. Rylan's eyes sparkled with excitement as he and Lucian found a spot close enough to feel the heat of the battle, but still a safe distance from the fray.

“Look at that!” Rylan pointed at one of the fighters who had just delivered a powerful blow, sending his opponent tumbling to the ground. There were no rules; the fighters were fierce and determined, each eager to prove their strength and skill in the ring. Rylan laughed as the crowd erupted into a chorus of shouts, some placing bets, others simply reveling in the violence.

After watching a few more matches, Rylan pulled Lucian away from the ring, his heart pounding from the excitement. "Okay, next we have to check out the food stalls! I think I saw my mother setting up hers just a little further down."

As they navigated the bustling marketplace, a wave of anxiety hit Rylan. How could he explain Lucian’s presence to his mother? With his dark attire and masked face, Lucian was bound to raise questions. Just as the thought began to fester, Lucian turned toward him, an amused glint in his crimson eyes.

“I have an idea,” he said, his voice low and conspiratorial. “Why don’t I be your mysterious friend? I can pretend to be a traveler passing through, seeking shelter for the festival. It might even make it more interesting.”

Rylan raised an eyebrow, intrigue mixing with hesitation. “But what if she recognizes you or someone else does? The guards…”

“They’ll be too busy with the festival,” Lucian reassured him, a playful smile creeping under his mask. “And if anyone asks, I can say I’m an old friend who just wanted to experience the festivities like everyone else.”

Rylan chuckled, feeling the tension dissipate. “You really think that’ll work?”

“Trust me,” Lucian replied, a spark of mischief in his eyes. “Let’s give it a try.”

As they approached the food stalls, Rylan took a deep breath, anxiety creeping back in. His heart raced as they neared his mother’s brightly colored stand, the sign proclaiming “Best Moonflower Pastries in Moonstone Hallow.”

“Mom!” Rylan called, spotting her busy arranging the moonflower pastries, her hair tied back and flour dusting her apron. She looked up, a broad smile spreading across her face. “Rylan! You made it!”

“Of course! I brought a friend!” he said, gesturing to Lucian, who stood a step behind, obviously playing the part of the mysterious traveler.

“Hello!” Rylan’s mother greeted warmly, her eyes sparkling with friendliness. “Welcome! What brings you to our festival?”

“Just passing through,” Lucian said smoothly, his voice steady. “I’ve heard stories of the celebrations here and couldn’t resist the invitation.”

Rylan’s heart pounded in his chest, but his mother's smile only widened. “Well, you’ve come at a perfect time! Would you like to try our famous moonflower pastries? They’re the best in the land!”

Lucian’s eyes flickered with interest as he stepped closer, the tension in his posture easing a little. “I’d love to.”

As Rylan watched the interaction unfold, a sense of relief washed over him. Perhaps they would be able to navigate this day together without drawing attention. And as they sampled the delicious treats, Rylan realized that the bond he shared with Lucian was already solidifying into something far deeper than he had imagined—a connection that could withstand the scrutiny of the world around them.

The morning of the festival arrived with a palpable excitement in the air. The entire village shimmered with life as moonflowers adorned every corner, their delicate petals reflecting the silvery light of the full moon that hung overhead. Colorful banners danced gently in the breeze, and the sounds of laughter and chatter filled the streets as villagers prepared for the evening’s festivities.

Rylan helped his father, a stern yet loving man, with the last-minute preparations. They hung lanterns and strung garlands of moonflowers from the eaves of their home, the fragrance of the blossoms mingling with the earthy scent of the morning dew. Rylan did his best to keep up, but his thoughts kept wandering to Lucian and the promise of meeting in the forest.

“Rylan, come on! We need to finish this before the sun gets too high!” his father called, pulling him from his daydreams.

“Yes, Father!” Rylan replied, putting on a determined grin and returning to the task at hand. Still, as soon as he had finished helping, a thrill of anticipation surged through him, and he quickly found a moment to slip away.

After making sure no one was watching, he dashed toward the edge of the village and ventured into the familiar embrace of the forest. The trees stood tall and proud, their leaves filling the air with a gentle rustling. He felt the pull of an unseen connection guiding him deeper into the woods.

Rylan pushed through the underbrush, heart racing with each step, fueled by both excitement and a tinge of nerves. He hoped Lucian would be waiting for him, just as they’d agreed. The last rays of sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting playful shadows on the ground.

Finally, he arrived at their secret glade, the spot where the wildflowers grew thickly, and the sunlight poured in like molten gold. Rylan's heart raced at the thought of Lucian's warm smile and the way his crimson eyes glowed against the backdrop of nature.

As he stepped into the clearing, he paused, scanning the area. “Lucian?” he called softly, the sound of his voice mingling with the chirping of birds.

A figure emerged from the thicket—tall, with a grace that seemed almost unnatural. Lucian appeared, his presence commanding yet welcoming. He smiled, and the sight of him sent a rush of warmth through Rylan, easing his earlier anxiety.

“There you are,” Lucian said, stepping closer. “I was beginning to think you wouldn’t make it.”

Rylan shrugged, a grin spreading across his face. “I couldn’t miss the chance to see you.”

Lucian’s expression softened, and he gestured to the flowers surrounding them, their petals unfurling into the light. “Beautiful, isn’t it? The festival is wonderful, but sometimes I think the best part is being here, away from the crowd.”

Rylan nodded in agreement, feeling the weight of the world lift as they shared this serene moment. “I’ve been looking forward to this all week. I wanted to tell you… about what happened the other night.”

The atmosphere shifted slightly, tension coating the air like a fine mist. Lucian stepped a little closer, his inquisitive gaze meeting Rylan's. “Yes?”

“It was… different,” Rylan admitted, searching for the right words. “It felt real. I’ve never felt anything like it before.”

Lucian's eyes sparkled, and he took a step closer, their bodies almost touching now. “Neither have I. There’s something about you, Rylan; something that pulls me in. I didn’t want the moment to end.”

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm glow over the forest, Rylan felt an overwhelming sense of hope and connection. He knew there might be challenges ahead, especially given the secrets that shrouded Lucian's past, but for now, it was just the two of them, basking in the magic of their discovery.

“Let’s make this festival one we won’t forget,” Lucian said, a playful challenge in his tone. “After all, moonflowers bloom brightest under the full moon.”

Rylan smiled, heart racing at the thought of what awaited them as they returned to the village together, ready to explore not just the festival but the growing bond between them.

My best friend of 13 years was getting married in 3 days . I thought this day would never come. Two fiancés later this one was it. I’ve never seen some one so in love before. Even though I have been married for 14 years to my high school sweet heart I dont think I’ve ever been in that kind of love. Sure I’ve had boyfriends before him but I’ve never felt that way about any of them not even my husband Cullen. I know I love him but not like Tammy loves Robin. That was the fairytale love every little girl dreamed of.

I meat Tammy when we where seniors, Cullen was really close friends with her boyfriend Hunter at the time. 5 months before graduation I found out I was pregnant, Hunter told Cullen his girlfriend Tammy found out she was pregnant a month later. They introduced us and we clicked instantly. The guys driffed apart but Tammy and I never did even after she had broken up with Hunter.

Hunter was fiancé number one, she was head over heels for him…it’s true those where her exact words. They say boys become men when they become a father. Phssshh not this guy, Hunter had a problem being faithful and loooved to party. Even though Tammy was “head over heels in love” she loved herself enough to know that he was not the one. Not her fairytale Prince Charming.

Cullen and I moved into our own place before the baby was born. We couldn’t afford much since we didn’t have much money, our parents helped as much as they could. I stayed behind after graduation, Cullen thought it would be best to put college on hold till we figured out our living situation and me being close to my due date and all. So Tammy and I fixed up our little shack and turned it into a cozy little cottage where we spent our months nesting. She would come over everyday even straight after work. We’d order pizza, lay on our sides of the couch with our blankies and pillows. We’d nap and watch scary movies all day. I had a strong feeling she spent her days with me because she was lonely. I know how much she wanted the house, marriage, little family and love life. But it’s okay, because I was only too.

Cullen was often gone, he was either working or at the community college. It was for us I would tell myself , he wanted us to have a good life which I was thankful for.

But I envied Tammy sometimes. Just to be so free and knowing what she wanted in her life. To make a life for herself to become some one. She did that and raising Amy full time. Very proud bestie here, she did the damn thang!

Hunter had Amy two weekends out of the month , Amy adores him . But I still think he’s a douche bag. So Tammy got to get out there in the world till she found Robin. He’s just perfect, great with the kids and Amy couldn’t be happier. I am truly happy for them. So here I am at 2am in the freaking morning hot glueing flowers, twigs and strings of beads to glass vases for the center peices on the tables. I already told her I’m stealing one . I did all this work I deserve it. Perfect for my bookshelf.

Chapter two

The day is finally here, and I am on auto pilot. As usual, I’m either mom, wife, or best friend to Tammy. There’s not much to me, since I don’t even know who I am as a person. Who even am I?? I couldn’t tell you one thing about me if you asked. I know that’s why I’m so down in the dumps today. I hate big events. Who am I kidding even little ones, like dinners with Cullens friends. I always have to meet a new girl friend or even wives. Those are excruciating, at least at bigger function no one notices I’m missing. I can just stear a conversation to another person and I slip out just walk away not even missed. Or busy about cleaning or something. Anything to not have to speak about my non existing life. Or listen to someone drone on and on about their life and suddenly I know to much about them. Thankfully when the kids are around I have the excuse of “oh little Timmy fell in a well! Gotta run!”

We finally arrive after a long morning of trying to get the kids ready and out the door. Thank god there was no fuss today, don’t think I could take another Zoey tantrum.?Girl makes me crazy but I Love her like breath itself.

The venue is beautiful, I’m stunned! Tammy wanted to keep things on the down low for her and Robins sake of it being special. so I didn’t know much.

I always wanted a wedding but after we had Zoey that got pushed to the side. She blessed my world , the kids make me feel needed and like I have a perpouse in the world. But I always felt like I was missing something, like I was meant to do be more than just a mom and wife. I often feel that if you where to look at me you’d see a gray smear of a face because I don’t have an identity. Just mom , wife.

I try to stay up late for me time to read a book and have a glass of wine. Which always ends up with cleaning, laundry and packing lunches. By time I get to my book I’ve polished off my bottle of wine and I don’t get past the second page before I fall asleep.

I’m the first one out there and helping with the final touches and little details. The venue is tucked in this cute little forest in Lake Tahoe. Everything is totally giving off twilight vibes . I imagine Edward leaping from rock to rock “As if you can out run me!” “I’m a monster Bella” (sparkle sparkle) I laugh to myself.

I go to turn to finish putting the center peices on the tables when I see something behind one of the trees, it looks like it’s glinting from catching the sunlight. I sheild my eyes from the sun to get a better look. It’s a man with black hair and pale skin. He’s looking at me and he’s not bad looking himself. Jacob yells from the venue building behind me that Tammy is have a dress malfunction and needs me pronto. I turn to tell him I’ll be right there. When I look back the guy is gone, hmm he must be from Robins side of the family. I’ve never seen him before.

Chapter 3

(I’d love to continue this as I am a mom of 3 but I have two children, I lost my first and this brings him into my story as a live person. I was going to name him Jacob. My life feels like something is always missing and I know it’s him. So this is my chance to bring him to life. It’s been years and I I’ve come to terms with it a little but this story is how I Think he would have been. He would have been an older brother to two sisters. Oldest to all the grandchildren. He would have been the only boy. I had a dream on night when i was crying myself to sleep asking god to please let me see him and if he was okay. God answered. He was with his uncle from his dad’s side of all people, who I did not care for. They were at the beach , sunny and blue the sky was. I was sitting a little further back and his uncle mucio who was holding my son turned to me and said he’s okay, he’s happy look at him. I looked at him, his uncles arms under his arm pits holding him up. Jacob had a big smile on his face and green eyes. Green eyes, the first time I seen his eyes, brown hair and butter scotch skin. He was happy and okay. His uncle mucio was alive and well but I felt that he was okay and happy. God gave me that dream for a reason. ) so here he is a character in my book, my son that I wish was here.)

Clara paid for the garden lanterns at the local garden centre and made her way back to her car. She was due to meet her best friend for coffee and cake at their favourite little tea room in fifteen minutes time. Rose and Clara had been friends since pre school and now Rose was getting engaged to her other longest friend, Sam. Sam and Rose met a very long time ago at primary school, drifted apart during their teenage years and finally reconnected through Facebook five years ago.

Sam moved away from Cornwall to Barnstaple after leaving school at sixteen, as his parents as wanted to be closer to Sam’s sister Rebecca who was about to have her first baby. Sam joined the Royal Marines and had travelled around a lot of the world. He was invalided out after being severely wounded during a tour of Afghanistan. He’d lost both legs below the knee but had some amazing prosthetic limbs and managed to get a job as a receptionist at the local hospital.

“The hanging light fixtures bring a lot of warmth to this experience,” Reggie murmurs from beside me. I look up at him and smile. For some reason, I’m only now noticing how much my brother has aged. Reggie has always had softer features that made him look much younger than he was. Yet tonight, under the warm glow of candlelights and a starry sky, Reggie looked manly.

“I think you and Sabrina bring most of it yourselves” I respond. I watch as Sabrina, soon to be sister in law dances around the forest bare feet with her friends. She looked like a forest nymph from a fantasy novel.

“Listen, thanks for doing this. I didn’t expect it to be so beautiful. Who knew you were creative?” He joked.

“I’m a graphic designer, being creative is my job,” I say, rolling my eyes playfully. Reggie laughs.

“And besides, that’s what best friends are for” I continued.

Reggie lifts his eyebrows in confusion, “I’m your brother.”

“Same thing,” I say.

“Lily,Lily,Lily!” Abbie came darting into the living room all smiles. “I have something amazing to tell you!” “What is it?” I replied. “Zach and are getting married!” I couldn’t even hide my excitement. “This is amazing. You and Zach are going to be a wonderful couple.” This is what I’ve been waiting for ever since she started dating Zach two years ago. I had a hunch he was the one. Abbie and I have been friends for 8 years. I’m 24 now and Abbie is 22. She’s aways been kind of boy-crazy but I could care less! “I was wondering,” Abbie began, “…If you would plan the wedding.” I thought about it and I couldn’t say no! I am a wedding planner so it’s kinda my job plus, she is one of my best friends. “Yes! Of coarse.” Abbie was so happy “I just don’t know where I want it.” “I’ll start planning it tonight. I’m sure we’ll find something.” That night after Abbie left I started planning. I searched up on my computer where the best places are to have a wedding in Georgia. Two searches popped up. A local forest wedding was one idea. “Abbie would love that!” I thought to myself. That was easy now I just have to plan everything out. I went to bed sleepy. I already have dark circles under my eyes so staying up a little late couldn’t hurt. The next day I got the idea to go to Starbucks and PLAN. I decided to wear a pretty white blouse, ripped jeans and a pair of converses. I added some hooped earrings hopped in the car. I turned on Spotify and blasted Lana Del Rey over the speakers! Then I was at Starbucks. That was when I saw him. Matt Williams was a year older than me and actually only a few inches taller than me (I’m 4’8). He also was in college to be a Nurse. “Hey Lily! What are you working on?” His brown hair shown when the light hit it. “I’m planning a wedding for my friend Abbie and it’s in the woods!” “Well, I’m sure it will be as beautiful as the lady who’s planning it.” This caught me by surprise. “what do you mean?” I knew what he was going to say. “I’m talking about you! The girl I’ve aways crushed on!” I couldn’t help but smile!

The last bit of light between the trees in the forest twinkled out of sight and a curtain of darkness and coolness overtook the day. The warm summer days were being chased out every evening by the early fall coolness, and there was an extra chill setting inside a shallow basin formed in the earth in the forest. Any moment the guests would begin their trickle in. The change in the air also signified the change amongst the creatures of Narodë. Here in the middle of the forest, a cozy place of peace has been carved out for the attendees. Warmer days had provided a lush covering of ivy across the opening and around tree trunks, steadily creeping higher before death by frost set in. Arele had the honor bestowed upon her to create this delicate ambiance, and she was grateful to see her favorite bumbling dwarf, Truda, had already donated a beautiful array of their pumpkins which came in different sizes and shades of green, blue, and orange. Four large fire pits made of intricate strands of light wood surrounded the quaint table and chairs. To match the table setting, these firepits were lined with mismatched wax candles all melting into each other from their close proximity. The large oak table was starting to drip wax from either end of the table. Light orbs floated above the table for the final enthralling touch. Guests could see the warm glow fluttering from deep in the earth and that was the sign the celebration had begun. The creatures of Narodë arrived in groups; five humans of the Hazfort village, a large bronze centaur accompanied by a shorter but sturdy grey centaur, a swarm of air sprites plus a couple fire and earth sprites, two tree goblins, seven dwarves of which Arele spotted Truda, as well as an intimidating group of animals including a very large buck, a burly brown bear, a well-fed black crow, and a hound dog with bloodshot eyes and a chunk missing from his ear. When Arele was sure there was someone to represent every invited party on the guest list, she gave a signal to an air sprite named Fern who in turn set off a pleasant dance of the bells. The bride and groom would now arrive shortly, and the gleeful buzz in the air quieted down as guests eagerly looked around for their descent. CRACK. Lightening struck just outside of the gathering amongst the first line of trees, and A horned creature slowly emerged from the treeline. There was a visible jolt from the guests as realizations set in. “Xelots weren’t i-invited!” Hamlin sputtered loudly from the corner of the table hosting the dwarves. Pheara took one long and graceful step towards the party, which caused a shuffling amongst the guests to let through the strongest of the bunch.

The air was warm with a cool breeze dancing through it every so often. The glade was lit with blazing lanterns and candles. The table was ready with plates and cups ready for the celebratory feast which awaited them. The forest had no idea the excitement which was coming: the laughs, smiles, cheers and dancing. As people started arriving, there were clinking glasses and chatter all around. Pumpkins were being used as seats and young children were dancing with ribbons in and out of the trees. The happy couple were going to be the last to arrive and be met with applause and cheering upon their joyful arrival

Fu fuh friend the fuck is a friend a fool that text a meager three sentences a day or worse three seconds count your blessins count your days cauze it’s coming your retarded and their retarded and my life is a stick in a ball and I’m tired of it