Game of Destiny by Dripping Creativity novel Chapter 16

Chapter 16-1

The week and a half slipped by faster than I expected, yet at times it felt as though time itself had stretched endlessly. Laura proved to be a natural when it came to waiting tables, quickly absorbing everything I taught her in no time at all. This eased my guilty conscience somewhat, knowing that Mrs. Jones and CeCe wouldn’t be burdened with extra work while I was away. My final shift at the diner was an evening one, and once the last paying customer finished their meal, Mrs. Jones declared the diner closed. To my surprise, the entire town seemed to pour in as CeCe excitedly announced it was my goodbye party. The evening turned out to be wonderful, filled with laughter and even a few tender, teary moments. CeCe and Jessie were adamant about coming over to help me pack my car the next morning, despite my insistence I’d manage on my own. Eventually, I gave in; I don’t think I could have kept them away even if I’d tried. Their presence was their way of checking if they felt I’d be safe with Finlay, which I found incredibly touching.

That night, sleep was elusive. My stomach fluttered with nervous butterflies, and my wolf stirred with a giddy excitement I couldn’t quite contain.

My alarm buzzed sharply at seven a.m., and I rose promptly. I carefully parked the bedding box I’d saved for the trip, then made my way to the bakery. Mrs. Andresen had promised to prepare breakfast for me, so I wouldn’t have to dirty any kitchenware on my last morning. Carrying in the two sacks of flour I always helped her with, I was greeted with the aroma of freshly baked muffins and the rich scent of coffee. As I savored the breakfast and chatted amiably with Mrs. Andresen, I heard the unmistakable sound of a vehicle pulling up outside. It wasn’t Finlay’s truck, which piqued my curiosity. I stepped out back to investigate.

To my astonishment, Finlay wasn’t alone. He was leaning casually against an unfamiliar truck, accompanied by Sam and Medow. Medow squealed with delight upon spotting me and rushed forward, wrapping me in a warm, tight hug. I smiled and hugged her back just as tightly.

“I’ve missed you,” Medow whispered.

“I’ve missed you too. I didn’t expect you to come all this way,” I admitted.

“I know, but when Finlay said he’d come to get you, we thought…” Medow began, only to be interrupted by Sam clearing his throat. “Okay, okay,” she laughed, “it seemed like a good idea for us to come along too.”

“I’m not complaining,” I said with a grin. “Though four people to move me might be a bit much.” Just then, CeCe and Jessie appeared, walking toward us. I introduced everyone, watching as Finlay and Jessie exchanged a measured glance. I rolled my eyes, prompting giggles from CeCe and Medow.

“Alright, let’s get me packed up before this turns into a contest,” I said, eager to avoid any more playful posturing. With six of us and my limited number of boxes, it took less than half an hour to pack everything neatly into the Volvo and the truck.

“I’ll be driving,” Finlay declared, holding out his hand expectantly for my car keys. I hesitated.

“I usually don’t let anyone else drive her,” I confessed.

“Her?” he raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, Amie has an unhealthy attachment to that car,” CeCe teased with a giggle.

“Hey, me and Beula have been through a lot,” I defended, patting the sand-colored roof affectionately. Everyone laughed.

“Are you going to tell me I can’t drive your car?” Finlay asked, his tone indicating he was speaking as my Alpha. Technically, he wasn’t my Alpha yet, but I knew better than to argue technicalities when starting my new life in his pack.

“Of course not,” I said, tossing the keys to him.

Just then, Mrs. Andersen approached, balancing two large bags and four to-go cups. “I’ve packed doughnuts and coffee for everyone,” she said kindly. Sam and Finlay hurried to help her with the load.

“That’s so thoughtful of you, thank you,” I said gratefully.

“I’ve also packed some burgers for the journey,” Mrs. Jones added, arriving with two bags full of food. “No fries — they’d just get soggy — but plenty of stuffed potatoes.”

“Thank you both,” I said sincerely, and they knew I wasn’t just thanking them for the food.

“It’s been a pleasure, Amie,” Mrs. Jones said warmly. She gave me a hug, and her sister followed suit.

Chapter 16-2

“Don’t forget about us. Keep in touch,” Jessie urged, giving me a playful nudge.

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