Confrontation

CHAPTER 21

Becky's P.O.V



I hurried out of the clinic, my heart pounding and my hair a mess. The strong smell of disinfectant stuck to my clothes, but all I could feel was fear building in my stomach.


When I stepped outside, I saw the serious soldiers of the Ravensong pack, their faces showing both strength and something more grim. At the front was Rian, our Alpha, tall and firm.


I could feel a need to rush at my skin, making my tired legs want to move faster.


“Becky!” Rian turned quickly when he heard me coming. His face changed from serious to worried, and he walked over to me with a clear goal. “You have to go back. It’s not safe here.”


“No!” I stood my ground, my heart racing with my strong refusal. “I’m not leaving.”


His forehead wrinkled, and for a moment, I saw irritation flash on his face before it changed to worry. “This is serious. Jessy Bloodmoon is coming with a group. We can’t let you get hurt.”


“But I won’t run away like a scared rabbit while you deal with her! I want to help. I have a right to be here.” I felt my voice grow stronger, a heartfelt plea spilling out.


Rian breathed out slowly, his intense eyes looking into mine like he was trying to find any sign that I got how serious this was. “You can’t decide that. This isn’t a game. Jessy will hurt you if she gets the chance.”


“She doesn't bother me.” I replied boldly.


“Rian, we need to go!” Jake came closer, his face serious with worry. “The Bloodmoon pack is near; we can see their flags.”


“Stay out of it,” I said to Jake, feeling annoyed. Then I turned back to Rian. “I’m going too.”


“Becky—”


“I said I'm going!” I cut in, stepping around him to get to the front, not wanting to be left out. I saw Rian looking worried as he shared a look with Jake. But he stayed quiet, and I felt a rush of confidence.


As we got close to the edge of our land, a charge filled the air like static. I saw the soldiers stiffen, their eyes locked on the coming army. My heart raced, fear gripping my insides as dark armor shone threateningly in the late afternoon sun.


“Stay behind me.” Rian ordered, his voice serious and strong. I sighed but followed, taking careful steps to line up with the others as we formed a close group, getting ready for the upcoming fight with Jessy’s team.


“What does she want?” Rian shouted, standing tall, even though he felt a bit weak inside.


A person rode in front of the army, the Bloodmoon pack’s flag waving strongly in the wind. Jessy showed up, her black hair swirling around her like smoke, and a scary grin on her face. “Oh, Rian, you’re always so serious! Can’t a girl just come by for a friendly visit?” Her voice was teasing, bouncing off the trees.


“Jessy Bloodmoon,” Rian said, his voice calm but tight. “What does this mean? Why are you here with an army?”


“Meaning?” Jessy giggled softly, a sound that made my skin tingle. “I don't want to hurt you, dear Alpha. You hurt me.”


Jake moved closer, holding his sword tight. “Do you think we’ll fall for that? You show up with a whole army. You want something.”


“Ah, brave Jake!” Jessy said, her eyes shining with fun. “You’ve always been good at figuring things out. But I’m just here for a little talk, nothing else. Maybe a quick deal?”


“Go back and stop your talks.” Jake said firmly, his voice strong. “You and your army are not wanted here.”


I felt my heart racing in my chest, wanting to jump in. “You don’t know anything about her, do you, Jake? I’ve heard tales about Jessy Bloodmoon. She’s mean and controlling. This isn’t just a talk; she’s not here for good.”


“Oh, Becky!” Jessy cooed, her voice dripping with venom. “I’ve heard about you too. The timid girl who used to tremble at her own shadow. How quaint that you’re so eager to stand up now!”


My face got hot, a mix of embarrassment and anger inside me. “I’ve changed, Jessy. Unlike you, I won’t hide behind a fake front and a group.”


Jessy moved in closer, her grin bold and fierce. “Looks like you have some spirit in you. I like that. But remember, spirit can also hurt, my dear.”


“Stop playing around!” Rian’s voice strong and clear. “Just tell me what you want, Jessy. We don’t have much time.”


“Isn’t that how it goes?” Jessy answered, her eyes sparkling with fun. “All I want is a bit of access. I’m sure you’ve heard about my... crush on Alpha Karl. I heard he’s taken a small plunge into trouble. Key word, small.”


“Why do you care about Karl?” Rian asked, his voice calm, but I could feel a small shake behind what he said.


“Curiosity, Rian. You should learn to welcome it. Power changes are interesting to watch, especially from the side. I want to see Karl before things get… complicated.”


“Your need to brag doesn't bother me.” Rian cleared his throat, moved closer, and tried to sound strong even though his voice shook. “You will go back, Jessy.”


“Let her in!” Jake said, his face white under his dark shirt.


“No!” Rian shouted, facing his son. “You don’t get what you’re asking. This is risky.”


I felt the heavy feeling of not knowing what would happen, but I was becoming more determined. I wasn’t going to let fear control what I did or let Rian deal with Jessy by himself. I had to join this fight, no matter the dangers.


I saw Jessy laughing, her voice happy and carefree, but I felt something lurking beneath. “Dangerous? How over the top! I swear, I’m not a threat. Just my small group to keep me safe.” She waved her hand, calling her guards, who stood there staring like they were waiting for orders.


Jake's voice cut through the stress, filled with anger. “You think we’ll just stand by and let you come in like you own this place? You don’t fit in here, Jessy!” I felt his anger heavy on me, and it was clear we were all in big trouble.


“Oh, dear boy, haven’t you learned? Power isn’t really about fitting in. It’s about pretending to.” Jessy's eyes shone with fun, enjoying the trouble she had caused. I couldn’t help but feel annoyed at her happiness over our struggle.


“That's enough!” Rian shouted, strong and firm. “You need to leave, Jessy. I won’t talk while you're forcing me.”


I could see Rian was really set on his choice, but Jake tried to speak up. “Rian, you can’t just—” But Rian stopped him with a look that felt like it could break metal.


“Do you really think I’d put my people in danger?” Rian replied, his voice filled with barely held-back anger.


Jessy's smile grew bigger as she jumped in. “That's nice. But being nice won't save your life.”


I felt like a pawn stuck in a game I didn't quite get, but something pushed me to speak up, eager to say what I thought. “Jessy, we know you. You’ve shown us who you are. You might think this is just a game, but you’re messing with real lives.” I held my breath, wishing my words would mean something with all the growing tension.


Jessy looked at me with a sharp stare, a smirk on her face. “You really need to learn to be quiet when grown-ups are talking. But I have to say, I like seeing you struggle to keep up. It’s like watching a dog chase its tail—cute but pointless.”


A wave of anger rose up in me, fueling my determination. I wouldn’t let her teasing bring me down. “You’re wrong, Jessy. We’re not scared of you. You might have the advantage now, but that doesn’t mean we’ll let you push us around.” My heart raced as I spoke, belief powering my stand. I was done just watching.