OCTOBER- THREE WEEKS BEFORE TRAVEL

Ricardo growled in frustration. " How many times do you plan to step on my toes Lil Amiga...?" He stepped back and sat down to rub his sore feet. Mika had stomped on them at least a dozen times since they began lessons. " Its starting to hurt. " he muttered.

"Sorry! I just keep panicking and then get defensive.. " she sighed and pouted holding her arm by her side.

Esmeralda giggled from the seat next to Rico. " Don't worry. He is just being a baby. But, you do need to relax. " She smiled brightly.

They arrived early the next morning. Ricardo was actually pissed that Mika was so sore. He kept yelling at Jayce because dance required her to be relaxed and at peace. It was an art according to him. His Luna was very timid at first. Just like he said. Shy, sweet, innocent looking, and even a little child like. That was until she and Mika hit it off.

She was a short little woman, with curves, and medium black hair. Her bright green eyes shined out against her dark completion and high cheek bones. She was beautiful. Her accent was heavy, but understandable as well.

They started to talk, and Mika cracked a joke about Jayce. In return Esme started in on Ricardo. He was shocked to say the least. His quiet little beauty had quite the wild side around Mika. He was glad to see her come out of her shell though. " I'm not a baby. You try leading her since you seem to get along so well. " he huffed softly.

Esmeralda simply smiled. " Well, I have a feeling we are teaching her wrong. Yes these are basics, but she keeps going into defense mode. Like she is preparing to fight. So, let's have her run basics with a broom? Just until she gets accustomed to holding on with both hands. "

Mika tilted her head. " A broom? My partner is a broom?" She asked softly feeling a little down. She hung her head in defeat.

" It takes a lifetime to be as talented as we are. You just focus on getting used to it. Then we'll move onto trusting your partner to dip you, and hold you up. " she smiled. " Besides, I'm doing it with you. Here. Come on. Let's get started. " she hurried.

Mika sighed. " Okay... " She took the broom from Esmeralda, and they both went to starting position.

~~~~~

" Are you sure this is working? It feels way to easy now..." Mika said going over the routine yet again.

" Positive. You haven't let go of either hand in hours, and you are slowly getting your footing down. " She nodded and stopped. " I think it's time to work on trust. You need to work with someone besides Jayce if you are going to dance with others. "

Mika nodded, " Yeah. I guess so. " She felt self conscious about this. " Do you think I'll be able to handle this in a long dress?"

" Yeah. It isn't as hard as you think. Most dresses fit for dancing have either long slits, or plenty of leg room. You just need to know the steps. " she assured. " The moves can be universal for most classical dancing. Your partner will lead, and allow you to catch up. So no worries there. Just rely on others. Rico dear! She's ready!" She called prancing off to find him.

Mika sighed and sat down. She rubbed her aching feet. These heels were hell. " Ugh... I hate heels. " she whined softly.

" Trust me. So do I. " A rich accent came from behind her. " But, you'll need them. So get used to them. " Rico smiled a little. " My Esme put you through the wringer hmm?" He asked helping her off the floor.

" Yeah. Kinda. " she sighed softly.

" She has opened up a lot with you. I'm glad she made a friend. I will admit. I was a little worried about her. She is always so shy, and reserved. " He chuckled as he whisked her right into starting position. " My, my.. she did help. You would have stomped on my foot by now. " he joked.

Mika rolled her eyes, " Hush and help me learn before Jayce sees..." She grumped.

He laughed, and the fun began. If fun was what you called it. They both called it torture. Her feet felt like they were going to blister, and his were sore from her stepping on them. Yet he had to admit, Mika was shaping up.

~~~~~~

" Okay.. let's stop for the night. You still have two weeks to learn, and you've mostly got it down. You are much more trusting than before. Yet, we still have a lot of work to do. "

" It helps when she explains what's coming. " she answered happily. " I'm glad I'm doing good. I just hope I can keep up in the dress." She sighed as she kicked the heels off.

" I'm sure Esmeralda will have you dancing in the style dress Jayce will have made for you by next week. But, we wont rush it. You are doing fine. " Ricardo patted her head and gathered her shoes. " Come on. The chef was making dinner when I came back. I imagine its waiting on us now. "

Mika nearly drooled. " Food sounds amazing...." She said happily skipping ahead of him.

They found their way into the dining room where Esmeralda and Jayce were waiting. Jayce lit up when he saw Mika. She looked exhausted, but happy. " Looks like things are going good after all. I heard a lot of choice words from Rico earlier. "

Mika frowned and pouted. " Hey.. it wasn't easy... I have to get used to stuff..."

He nodded, " I know, and you will. Come on. Let's eat. " he smiled as she joined him. She bent down, and he kissed her softly before she sat down.

They ate together before retiring for bed. " Make sure to rest tonight! Strictly rest!" Ricardo called as the took Esme to their room.

" Fine!!! " Whined Jayce. Mika giggled and he smiled. She was really happy to have friends. If she was happy so was he.

~~~~~~

Week one flew by. Mika made a lot of progress. She no longer stepped on Rico's feet. She twirled with grace, and he didn't need to tell her when he was going to have to support her.

Jason showed up at the end of the week with Farven. The two had been training together, and talking. Jason had learned to really accept himself for what he felt. His pack was behind him completely. Many of them were coming to the party later on as well.

Rico asked both of the alphas to help her. She hesitated a little sometimes, but it should be remedied with help from a few new dance partners.

Mika gulped at the dress Esmeralda was lacing up. "Oh goddess. How the hell am I supposed to dance in this?!"

The girl laughed. She actually laughed. " Its going to be okay. I promise. "

" I'm going to kill myself going downstairs alone and everyone else who dances with me! " She was so nervous she was shaking in her heels. " Why is this the practice dress?!"

" Simple sweetheart~ Its the style he is having made for you. Not the same. But similar. "

" I'll kill him for this. " She whispered earning another laugh. " Oh, come on.. this is soooooo not me. I dont wear big fluffy dresses. Or frills. Or dresses normally."

" Please you are doing wonderful. Just relax, and take deep breaths. I understand that you are dancing with Alpha Jason today right?"

Mika nodded. " Yes... and my Grandfather Alpha Farven. I can't wait to spend some time with him. It's been a while. " she beamed.

" That! " Esme shouted clapping. Mike nearly jumped out of her shoes.

She saw Mika was clearly startled. " Keep that thought. It'll relax you. " she explained. " I'll be dancing with Ricardo, you just watch us when you need guidance. Pay attention to Jason though.. trust him, let him lead, and relax. "

She nodded keeping the list in her mind. " Okay. I can do that. I can do that."

" Okay. Let's go~ The boys are waiting! Jayce is busy with work. The day is ours!" She lead Mika to the stairs.

" I can do this. I can do this. I can do this...I can't do this..." she hesitated shaking at the top.

Esmeralda laughed playfully. " Oh. Come on you silly thing. One foot in front of the other. Deep breaths. Happy thoughts. Hold your head high. You are beautiful. " She whispered as they descended the stairs to the boys.

Farven gasped at his little Mika. She looked so grown up. Graceful, and calm. He swelled with pride. She had blossomed into a beautiful woman. His flamboyant gasp caught Jason's and Ricardo's attention.

They couldn't believe their eyes. She was in a giant ballgown. She and Esmeralda literally took up the entire staircase together. They looked beautiful, even if these weren't the dresses for Mika's birthday.

Mika might have looked calm on the outside, but she was a huge mess inside. Her nerves were everywhere,though she tried to take Esme's advice. She walked slowly, and thought of spending time with her grandpa after. Before she knew it she was at the bottom of the stairs, and Jason held his hand out for her.

He snickered when she took it flushing a little. " Careful. You'll make Jayce jealous. " he said softly. Jason lead her out to the middle of the floor, and Rico his Luna. " You look stunning. He won't know what hit him. "

Mika smiled. " Thanks Jason.. but I'm terrified of breaking bones right now. Not making Jayce jealous."

" Nah. I'm a good lead. You will be fine. I won't let you get hurt. " he promised with a soft gentlemanly kiss to her hand.

She laughed, " Now whose going to make him Jealous?" She asked playfully before Farven started the music.

" I aim for it Mika. I just love to push his buttons. " he chuckled as he began to lead her.

"It can be pretty fun to do that hmm?" She asked smiling while Ricardo and Esme started to dance.

She took her deep breaths, and relaxed. Just as she was told. They danced for a while before she missed her step, and landed right on his foot. " Sorry!" She said as he winced.

" Don't worry about it. It happens. Otherwise you are doing great. " he nodded to reassure her. " You have a strong step, just try to be a little lighter on your feet. " he advised trying not to cry. He wanted to. Heels. Heels were the devil's invention.

She nodded. " I'm so happy that I can figure this out. I thought for sure I would mess up in the dress. " She smiled happily.

He swore his heart skipped a beat. He might have been gay, but she had a way with people. Not that he was attracted to her for it. More like his more brotherly instincts grew stronger. He smiled. " I do believe its time to switch partners. " he said twirling her into Ricardo's grasp.

She gasped at how easily the transition was. Rico swept her into the dance effortlessly, " Excellent Mika. I think you are about ready. We'll practice for a while each day until the ball. You'll do wonderful. " He beamed down to her.

She smiled brightly again. " You guys are just trying to ease my mind. " she dipped with Rico.

" No, we mean it. You've done great for just a weeks worth of practice. "

Farven tapped his shoulder. " May I?"

He smiled, " Or course Sir. " He passed her to Farven again effortlessly. It was like she wasn't in control at all when they passed her along.

" How you've grown Little One. " the old man smiled. " How did the lovely Esmeralda get you to relax?"

She smiled. " Well, she made me dance with a broom for hours. "

He laughed a little. " Sounds like fun. " he said as he lead her away from the floor. " Let's go for a walk. It's been a while. "

She beamed. " Sounds heavenly. Just let me get rid of these shoes....." she glanced back at Esme, " Is it okay if the dress drags a little?"

"Perfectly fine. Go on. " she waved her away. " You did wonderfully! " The little bubble of sunshine bounced happily as she went outside.

Mika waved and smiled as she kicked off the he shoes and let Farven lead the way. She let out a sigh once outside. " It feels so nice tonight. "

He nodded, " Yes it does. Autumn is moving in, and the seasons are changing. A wonderful time of the year. As long as you don't take into account all of the pollen. " He scrunched up his nose.

She nodded. " It really is. Gahh, I can't believe I'm about to turn twenty. I feel like an adult. " she frowned a little. " Don't know if I like that.."

He shook his head smiling, " You have been an adult Mika. You are just maturing more. "

She nodded as they walked into the garden. A comfortable silence settled between them as they walked. Eventually they sat down on a bench.

" Ahh... but, I did want to let you know that Jason and I both believe a traitor is in our group. " He eventually spoke.

Her head snapped towards him. " What? Why would you think that. Shouldn't Jayce know?" She asked softly not wanting to ruin any trust they held.

He patted her arm softly. " Jason is speaking with him. As I am with you. They'll join us soon. For now I want to warn you. Be careful at the ball. Don't go outside with anyone other than those closest to you. Not even that Darius fellow. " He said sternly.

Mika nodded. " Okay. But, how would I know if someone is trying to get to me or anyone else?"

" Don't linger on that. I want you to enjoy the party, just be weary of leaving it alone. Someone should know where you are at all times. Especially during all of these rouge attacks. Esmeralda will have special rules as well. She probably won't leave Ricardo's side. " He glanced over her shoulder at the doors of the ballroom. Jayce and Jason were coming to them. " Speaking of her, she is nothing like I imagined. Shy still, but not as shy as I thought. "

Mika laughed a little. " Yeah. We connect really well. I guess it's made her a little bold. " she smiled. " Its nice to have a girl to talk to."

He nodded. " I would say so. Seems like you can bring a shy little clam out of her shell as well. You have a way with people darling. " He chuckled as the two aloha boys came up.

" So you guys think the girls are at risk? " Jayce asked beside Mika.

She glanced up at him. " No they think the packs are at risk. Think about it. A lot of people would be here. "

" Yes, but it wouldn't be smart. We would all retaliate if they attacked here anytime we are gathered. If any packs get attacked every one of us would help. " Jayce reasoned.

" They can scout. Hand pick who they want to target. " Jason said softly sitting across from Mika and Farven.

Jayce nodded and Farven spoke up. " They can and will. Whoever it is will be at her party. You can bet they'll try to stay as close as possible to the main group trusted by the strongest leaders. That way they can infiltrate and bring them down trophy and all. "

Jayce fidgeted next to Mika. " I don't like this. It is just a little to close to home. "

" Tell me about it..." Farven said softly. " Its been far to close to my home the entire time. " He sighed and stared out into the night.

Mika squeezed his arm a little. " Don't worry. We'll train the packs, strengthen our numbers, and save who we can. " she said confidently.

" That's my Love. Confident and strong." He laughed a little. " Like a light for those in the dark. "

She smiled lovingly at him. Jason cleared his throat. " I want that. So, let's lay off of it in front of me. Sound good?"

They laughed and talked about random things for a while longer before Esmeralda and Ricardo joined them. They brought dinner outside and ate together. It was a truly peaceful night.

~~~~~~~

OCTOBER 16TH -MIKA'S PARTY

The next week passed rather quickly. She practiced everyday for at least an hour. It helped her get used to relaxing with multiple dance partners. Esmeralda still wouldn't let Jayce come to practice. Said she wanted it to be a surprise for him as well.

Jayce would protest, but the Hispanic little woman wouldn't budge. At all. He pouted like a little puppy, but eventually he left them alone.

It was October 16th, and since she was kidnapped from her bed around five that morning she hadn't seen Jayce at all.

In fact the entire upper floor was turned into a salon for the Lunas arriving, and the girls attending. She and Esme kicked every male off the floor with the exception of Farven. He was a great stylist, and most people knew it.

Poor Jason even had to go. After being allowed up to get himself cleaned up by Farven. Which didn't take long at all.

The girls in the pack were all upstairs getting ready, and helping others as well. A few other Lunas were showing up tonight. Most of their friends didn't have one yet though, so it would be mainly older Lunas from close by. Girls from various packs were scattered everywhere as well. This night would be a great night for mates to be found as well.

Mika was passed from person to person. She got scrubbed down in a bath, they did her nails, gave her light makeup, pulled her dress on and laced it up in the back, Farven did her hair, They slipped he shoes on.. It was never ending.

It took all day.

It was exhausting. And exhilarating.

She was glad she was able to eat in between it all. Food was delivered upstairs, and the girls all gossiped. She enjoyed getting to know the girls and talk with them. They seemed to enjoy it as well. It was like they had all needed a reason to relax, and enjoy themselves again. That was fine by her. It was much needed.

Farven worked miracles. He curled her hair, and pulled the top half up in a beautiful braid. It sat against the rest of her curled hair down her exposed back. Thankfully.

She could strangle Jayce. True to Esme's word he did indeed get her a fairytale dress. It was a deep blue with a satin bodice that flowed directly into its large fluffy skirts. The while thing sat on top of what she called the skeleton of the dress. It rested gracefully just at the floor with her heels on. She was grateful that it wasn't to hard to sit in it.

Esmeralda came through the crowd like a little wild whirlwind. " Ahhhhh! It's time! It's time! All of us girls are about to go join those grumps downstairs. You will be announced last, and Jayce will lead you to the floor once you reach the bottom of the stairs. " She instructed. " And, remember sweetheart, think happy distracting thoughts. " she giggled.

" Those boys have been busting their butts down there. It looks beautiful.. " Lianna said pushing through. " Oh, Goodness Mika. You look stunning. You sure you can dance in that thing?" She smiled after gushing.

" Of course she can! I trained her. " Esme said proudly propping her hands on her hips.

" You guys look amazing as well... Oh, god I feel sick. Why did he want to make a big deal out of this?"

Lianna and Esmeralda laughed. " Because he loves you. " They answered together.

" We have to go. They're starting. Just relax. You'll have a lot of fun. Axton is dying to see you. Carter is... being Carter. " Lianna snickered a little. " Just be careful on the way down. " The girls turned to follow the rest of the group down stairs to the ball room.

Mika was left alone. She sighed and pulled the matching wrap over her arms a little tighter. She took a deep breath, and walked towards the stairs. This was so nerve wracking. She wasn't so sure she could do this. Everything was so formal. It was almost like a wedding? No... well.. a ball. She burst out in a fit of giggles.

Hysterical nervous giggles. Great. She sounded like a mad woman.

She heard them announce her as the birthday girl. She took a deep breath, let it out, and made her way to the stairs. " Oh god... I'm so embarrassed. I could murder them... but I'm so excited. " She stopped talking as people came into view.

Her gaze was pulled immediately to Jayce when she entered, and slowly descended. Murmurs and whispers went through the crowd. Most girls had seen her, but were still in awe. The lighting set her off in a beautiful way.

He looked so handsome. His normally messy hair was perfectly styled and tamed just enough. His amber eyes smoldering. He was even dressed nicely in a navy colored tux, a single silver painted rose in the breast pocket. His eyes took her in, and stole her mind away. He smiled devilishly, and she returned it with a shy grin and blush.

She looked amazing as she came down the stairs. The deep blue shined against the light cream and silver interior of the ballroom. Lights were strung around, casting different patterns across the room. Jayce had been smart to choose the colors. She was the center of attention. Time flew by, and soon enough he stepped forward to escort her to the middle of the room.

Jayce took her hand gently, and placed a soft kiss on its top. " Happy Birthday Mika. " he whispered sending chills across her skin. She blushed, and he smiled. Jayce took his position, and swept her into a dance as the musicians began to play.

Soon after others began to join them, and before long the floor was full of dancers. She rested her head on his shoulder for a moment dreamily. This was amazing. She smiled and looked up at him.

" They did an excellent job teaching you Love. You looks stunning tonight. I feel like the luckiest man alive tonight. " he chuckled softly and kissed her forehead.

" I can't believe I've pulled this off myself. " she smiled happily. " I love it. Thank you so much. Everything looks amazing. I'm in a fairytale.." she gushed.

Jayce felt someone tap his shoulder. Axton smiled up at him, " I would like to dance with my sister. "

" Fine.. hands above the ass Axton. She'll still beat you. Little brat. " Jayce handed her over grumbling. She laughed softly.

Axton stepped up. Even in dress shoes he was much shorter, but that didn't matter to him. He didn't let it affect him, and honestly he looked so gracefull and elegant. " Happy Birthday Sis. I hope you enjoy it. The ball is amazing right? We worked hard to make sure you would love it. " he smiled, " Make sure you try my food! It's not as good as your food, but I'm a decent cook. " He said proudly.

She giggled as he danced with her and talked nonstop. Who knew a short angelic guy could be so elegant and still so kid like? " Calm down you crazy boy. I will try everything. Promise, and yes I love it. Everything is so amazing! "

He nodded. " I'm glad you think so. Oh, remember to stick with us tonight. Okay?"

He looked concerned, and it made her smile. " Don't worry. I will. " she nodded as the song came to its end. They bowed to each other, and he escorted her away from the crowd for a while.

Axton took her to the food tables, and she sighed contentedly. " It smells heavenly... I'm starving..." she muttered before dishing a hearty plate of food.

" They didn't feed you much today huh?" He asked joining her with his own plate.

They sat together, and Jayce joined them. " Guess we all had the same thought. " he laughed as Carter, Jason, and Ricardo joined them. Esmeralda came over and sat with Ricardo. " This is fun.. we should have been having parties like this a long time ago. "

Jason nodded. " Even I've met a few people through Farven. No mate, but nice guys. " he smiled happily. " Happy birthday Mika. "

She nodded, and smiled. " Thanks guys. This is amazing. "

" The night is young. There is an lot more so do tonight. " Jayce smiled and held her free hand.

~~~~~~

The night started flying by. She danced with many of the alphas she was going to be visiting. Many discussed training lightly, and some just talked. Good thing to. She wasn't sure she could or wanted to be silent around them.

" You look gorgeous tonight." A deep smooth voice said behind her.

Mika turned around, and raised her brow at him. " Good afternoon Darius. You are rather .. dashing yourself. " She smiled.

He took her hand, and placed his other on her lower back to lead her into a dance. " Thank you. I try. " he smirked. " Happy Birthday. Seems like last week that we were in high school. You slapping the hell out of me for hitting on you. Me hitting on you again. " He chuckled.

Mika laughed. " I know. Just do me a favor, and don't do it again?"

" I'll try. " he said glancing down. Darius looked rather handsome. His chesnut brown hair was always perfect. It never dared to disobey. His light brown eyes saw straight through to any girl's soul. He could play her every desire. Any girl could fall for him, and yet Mika never budged.
She was a girl full of fire, and he had gotten burned to many times by her. Far to many times.

They danced through the crowd, and towards the doors that lead to the garden. A breeze blew in, and sent her hair flying away for a moment. She sighed contentedly and smiled. He smirked. " Care to join me outside for a stroll?"

Mika almost agreed instantly. Then she stopped. This felt wrong. This felt bad. Every instinct said she should run. The others warned her about this. Darius wasn't close to her or them. He wasn't in the immediate group.

She looked up, " Umm. Sorry. No... I-I have to go. " she tried to turn and get away from him, but he grabbed her upper arm.

" What's the rush? It's just the garden. I'm sure Jayce wouldn't mind if you get some fresh air right?" His eyes had hardened as had his grip.

She glanced at his hand, and then up at him. Her eyes were getting dark. " Let. Me. Go. " She said warningly. " Don't forget who gave you the scar on your stomach Darius. Take your hand off of me. "

Darius chuckled darkly. " Your acting like I'm going to abduct you. " His voice purred. His chest rumbled in a way that turned her stomach.

She scanned the crowd for someone. Anyone. " And, you are acting like you would if I walk outside with you. So, let me go. " she repeated.

Axton slid up next to her, and slid his arm around her waist. " Everything alright Mika?" He asked watching Darius. He didn't like how Darius's hand was holding her. They were close to the doors. This set him on edge. " Mika, care to join me? Let's go find Jayce. The party will be over soon. People are starting to retire for the night. "

Mika breathed a sigh of relief. Darius gritted his teeth. " Yes. I do need to find him. I'm starting to feel queezy. " she said truthfully. She was beginning to feel sick, and her arms hurt now. Darius was gripping it hard. It was going to be bruised surely.

Axton nodded, and slapped Darius's hand so hard his head snapped over to him instead. " You heard her Alpha. We'll be going now. Say goodnight, and be on your way. "

Darius huffed, " Goodnight Little Beauty. Alpha. " he reluctantly let her go, and gave her a chilling smile. " I'll be seeing you. " He left angrily shoving through the crowd.

Axton looked over at her. " Is he always that much of a creep? Or do we have a problem on our hands?"

She looked at him. The anger faded, and fear started to take place. She rubbed her arm. His grip was so tight, and it was bruised like she thought. " Yes he is, and yes we do. "