Balto

Family Stories:

The Change of Heart 

(Part 3)

Chapter 37

     The morning as well as noon passed quickly. It seemed as if the hours had just flown by after Aleu returned from the medical center. While Aleu waited for the afternoon to come she had taken the clan out back into the woods to give catching their breakfast a second try, except for Balto. He decided to pass to spend some time with Jenna. But thankfully, they were successful. All team work this time.

            Aleu decided to bend the feeding rules a little bit. She wanted everyone to eat at the same time, knowing that everyone was really hungry since they failed their first catch, though still reminding everyone who was in charge.

            After breakfast, Aleu and the clan returned to Balto’s boat. Since it was noon, they decided to tie breakfast and lunch together since no one was hungry enough for a second meal, except for maybe Nuk. Actually, they all seemed rather tired, supposedly just a mid-day nap feeling. So they all decided to take one, except Aleu.

Aleu: You guys go ahead and rest for a bit. I’m gonna take a walk.

Sarah: Would you like any of us to come with you?

Aleu: No. It’s fine. I just need a little time on my own.

Sarah: If you insist, Aleu. 

            Balto walked out of his room as Aleu began to head off the boat.

Balto: Don’t leave us worried like last time, Aleu. Don’t be gone for too long.

Aleu: I won’t, Papa. Don’t worry. I’ll be back after night fall, I promise.

Balto: Alright. Be careful.

Aleu: I will.

            Aleu went over to Balto and gave him a hug as a sign of appreciation. Even though Balto did sometimes worry about her too much, she was thankful that he worried a lot instead of not at all.

Aleu: I’ll be back after night fall, everyone. Sarah, take charge until I get back.

Sarah: Yes, Aleu.

Aleu: Thanks.

            Aleu turned and walked down the plank off the boat, passing her father. Sarah turned her attention back to the clan.

Sarah: Alright, everyone. You heard Aleu, until she get’s back, I’m in charge.

Nuk: Like always.

Sarah: Watch it, Nuk.

Nuk: Alright, alright. It was just a joke.

            Aleu looked back at the boat, over hearing Nuk and Sarah. She laughed at their comments. Good old Nuk and Sarah. She thought.

Chapter 38

     Niju was fast asleep inside of his cave. He really had nothing better to do while he waited for Aleu. He had been taking walks ever since he’d got there and he needed to save his energy for a bit. Plus he was going to walk with Aleu down to the stream so he didn’t want her to get there to find out that he had already gone without her. But he wouldn’t go without her regardless. There couldn’t have been a better person to walk with than Aleu. He thought.

He was so in love with her. He couldn’t wait to tell her that night how he felt. But how was he going to put it in words? What was he even going to say? What if he started to stutter or lose his words in the process? Niju had way too much to worry about, though he never had the problem of being himself. He was always himself ever since he had arrived at Nome. He just didn’t know what to say to her. But what he didn’t realize is that he had no problem speaking to her when something was wrong. When he saw the look on her face that other morning, he wanted to desperately know what was wrong. He had no problem asking what the problem was, and he wanted her to know that she could tell him anything. He supposed that all he wanted was to make sure that she was happy, and after that, what he wanted to say was all put together. He realized that he hated seeing her sad or depressed. As long as he knew that she was happy, there was no loss of words.

_

            Aleu was just around the corner from Niju’s cave. She hoped that he was still there. She wouldn’t have to look for him if he was out walking or catching food or something. But she was happy enough to be able to see him and she was positive that he was going to be there.

            Aleu reached the cave. She peaked around the corner to see if he was inside. At first, she didn’t see anything. She moved to the middle of the entrance and saw Niju in the corner, fast asleep. He looks so handsome when he sleeps. She thought. He was wrapped up in a bundle. She could see his side rise up and down slowly as he breathed. He looks so peaceful. She thought. So nice.  For some strange reason, Aleu began to feel somewhat of an attraction towards Niju whenever she was near him. Whenever she was with him she felt… happy.  It was a feeling she couldn’t describe. She began to think about it. Was she in love with Niju?

            She walked inside the cave, a shadow falling over her as she walked in. It was starting to get a little dark, so the cave was a bit gloomy, but she didn’t mind it.

            She got closer and closer to Niju as she walked in. She wondered over to the corner slowly, trying to make as less noise as possible to not wake him up. When she got to the corner, she looked down at Niju. She smiled a little bit just at the sight of him.

            All of a sudden, Niju started to toss and turn in his sleep. It looked like he was having a bad dream or something. He turned back and forth on his sides, pawing the air and muttering words.

Niju: No…. no. Please, no.

Aleu: Niju?

Niju: Don’t go. Please.

            Aleu reached forwards and shook Niju’s shoulder with her paw.

Aleu: Niju! Wake up!

            Niju tossed and turned harder, throwing his paws in the air. Aleu started to paw his shoulder harder to wake him up. He lied upwards and started shaking his head. His eyes slowly started to open.

Aleu: Niju, it’s me.

Niju: (blinking tiredly) Huh…. Oh, hi.

            Niju smiled, seeing that Aleu was right in front of him. Even in the dark, she still looks beautiful. He thought.

Aleu: You were having a bad dream.

Niju: (tiredly) was I?

            Niju stood up slowly, yawned and stretched.

Aleu: You were tossing and turning in your sleep. I’m I woke you.

Niju: No, it’s alright.

Aleu: So, what was it about?

Niju: Hmm… I can’t really remember.

Aleu: Well. Besides the bad dream, did you sleep ok?

Niju: Oh, yeah.

            Niju yawned again, his eyes still half open.

Niju: Just decided to take a little nap before you came over. I needed to save some energy.

Aleu: Alright. Well are you ready?

            Aleu noticed that Niju was still a little droopy. He must have been really tired, but she just woke him up from sleeping as well so he must have been still a little sleepy.

Niju: Yeah. Let’s go.

            Niju started to walk forward. It seemed like he was loosing his balance. This made Aleu laugh a little, though she felt a little bad waking him up and then having him walk somewhere.

Aleu: Uh, maybe we should wait until you’re up and ready.

Niju: Oh, no. It’s fine. I can walk.

            Niju kept on walking. He still seemed a little wobbly. Aleu walked next to him, observing his funny walk. Once they were outside the cave, Niju began to give in. Aleu tried to help him a little, laughing at the same time. Once he was down, he began to close his eyes. Aleu lied down gently on top of him.

Niju: Maybe I’m not quite ready for a walk yet.

Aleu: (laughing) I agree.

            Aleu thought of something for a second. It was starting to get dark a little. If they were to take a nap then Aleu would definitely be back way after dark and she would be going against her word. She had to wake him up, so she decided to have a little fun with it.

            Aleu got up and began to walk away. Niju lifted his head up tiredly, looking after her.

Niju: Where are you going?

Aleu: Hold on a second, I’ll be right back.

            Niju was too tired to offer to go with her, so he just did what she said.

Niju: (tiredly) Ok.

            Niju laid his head back down and closed his eyes. The grass actually felt pretty good. He didn’t really understand why he didn’t sleep outside instead of inside the rock hard cave. Then, he heard a light thumping on the ground. He lifted his ears up, wondering what the sound could be. He looked to his left, seeming that was where the sound was coming from. He could see a brown thing running towards him out of the corner of his eye. As he kept turning, he saw Aleu, charging after him. This woke him up completely.

Niju: Good God!

            The next thing he knows, he and Aleu are rolling in the grass from the force of her tackle. It didn’t hurt much because of how light she was. Though it was a little unexpected and awkward; Niju kind of liked being as close to Aleu as he was.

They both laughed as they rolled in the grass together.  Aleu was enjoying this just as much as Niju was. They continued to wrestle and play. They felt like pups that had known each other for years, and had grown up together, and had always had feelings for each other. Aleu felt so happy while they played together. It’s like she completely forgot the wolf that he was a long time ago. It seemed like had always been like this, like he was a completely different person. She really liked the person that he was at that moment, though it was a little more than just like.

As they continued to wrestle, Niju got the upper hand and leaped on top of her while she was on her back, pinning her down with both his arms on her shoulders, not with much force trying not to hurt her.  

Niju: Ha! Can’t move!

Aleu: (laughing) Ah! No fair!

Niju: Hey. I’m taking it easy on you.

            Aleu laughed a little. They were having such a good time. They were so happy. They stopped for a while and just looked at each other, just stared into each other’s eyes, smiling. Then Niju realized something. This is a little awkward. He thought.

Niju: Um… Maybe we should get going.

Aleu: Yeah, probably.

            Niju got up and backed away, giving Aleu a little room to get up as well.

Niju: Ready?

Aleu: Yep. Let’s go.

            The two of them turned in the direction towards the creek and began to walk, side by side.

Chapter 39

            Niju was still a little curious about what happened earlier that day after Aleu left. Although he could see that Farris was hurt, he still didn’t get the story on what happened.

Niju: So how’s Farris doing?

Aleu: He’s doing alright. He’s not severely hurt but he still has to stay at the medical center until he gets better.

Niju: What happened?

Aleu: (with a sigh) He took a moose head on when I didn’t give the signal.

Niju: Ooh. Ouch.

Aleu: Yeah. He got hit in the chest by the antlers and he lost feeling in his shoulders.

Niju: You said he was staying at a medical center?

Aleu: Yeah. Steven was nice enough to bring him in for us, after a quarrel or two with his father.

Niju: I saw this human last time I saw you. Who is he?

Aleu: Steven? Oh, he’s… He’s really, really nice.

Niju: Is he?

Aleu: Yeah. I met him a while ago. Well, I actually first met him when I was a pup. He came to Nome for a visit and he saw that I was being given away for free.

Niju: Given away.

Aleu: Yeah. That’s what our masters do with our parent’s pups. They give them away.

Niju: Oh.

Aleu: But it wasn’t that bad. We were all living in the same area.

Niju: Oh, ok. 

Aleu: In fact, that’s why Steven couldn’t take me. He didn’t live in Nome. Oh, but he wanted so badly to though.

Niju: Why?

Aleu: You’re going to think that I’m crazy when I tell you this, but he has a passion for wolves.

Niju: A human?

Aleu: Yep.

            Niju was very surprised to hear that a human had a passion for wolves. Last time he heard, humans weren’t very fond of them.

Aleu: Anyway, almost a year ago, he moved here and I saw him again. He actually recognized me the minute he saw me.

Niju: After all those years, huh?

Aleu: I guess so.

            Niju looked at Aleu, her not paying attention. God, she’s beautiful. He thought. No wonder the human wanted to adopt her so bad. He really hoped that this all worked out. The closer the moment came to tell her how he felt, the more nervous he was. But regardless of how nervous he was, he still wanted to tell her. He wanted to be with her so bad. And the closer they got as friends, the more confidence it gave him that she would want to be with him too.

            Aleu continued to look forward as they kept walking to the creek. She tried not to look at Niju, not that she didn’t want to look at him. She didn’t want him to see her f ace. She was feeling a little distant, and she didn’t want Niju to ask her what was wrong, not yet… She was currently assessing her feelings about Niju. She really liked him, a lot. She obviously didn’t exactly know how he felt. She hoped that he had the same feelings about her that she did about him, or at least something similar. This did seem a little strange at first for Aleu. Just months ago, he was nothing like this. She thought. He was the complete opposite. Right after she thought that, she scolded herself for it. What am I saying! She thought. He’s changed. Why would I ever think something like that? He’s been so sweet ever since he got here. Aleu was pretty sure that this wasn’t a trick or anything. She could feel it. If it was, than something would have happened already. But she still hated her self for thinking such a thing.

            The creek finally came into view beyond the trees. Aleu and Niju walked together near the side.

Niju: Let’s go ahead and get to the other side.

            Niju started to walk slowly into the creek.

Aleu: Why do we have to go on the other side?

            Niju turned towards Aleu, not paying attention to where he was stepping.

Niju: Because the grass is greener.

            They both laughed a little. Mean while, Niju didn’t notice where he was going. As he walked forward, he stepped on a smooth rock covered with algae and slipped.

Niju: Whoa!

            Niju fell into the water, flipping upside down on his back, making a huge splash. Aleu gasped a little, thinking he was hurt. Niju got up quickly. He was completely soaked. Niju was breathing heavily, the expression on his face showing that he didn’t believe what just happened. He felt embarrassed, but over all, he felt wet and cold by the temperature of the water.

            Aleu saw the expression on his face and began to giggle a little, turning her face away a bit.

Aleu: (making slight giggles) are you… ok?

Niju: (breathing heavily) Yeah… I’m fine. I guess I just lost my…

            All of a sudden, Niju heard a sound that heard like a tiny giggle, coming from Aleu. He turned toward her with a questioning expression.

Niju: Are you… laughing?

            Aleu couldn’t help it. She lost it. She fell over on her back and began to crack up.

Niju: Oh, my God. You’re laughing.

Aleu: (laughing hysterically) I’m sorry… I just…

            Aleu couldn’t get a hold of her self. There was just something about Niju’s expression and the fact that he was soaking wet that made it really funny.

Niju: Funny? You think this is funny?

            Aleu continued to laugh. Niju wasn’t really mad. In fact, he loved hearing Aleu’s laugh. He was actually laughing a tiny bit as he watched her, but only because he knew what he was going to do.

            Niju walked over to the side of the creek, and saw a puddle of thick mud. He dug his paw in it and scooped some up.

Niju: Do you know what I think is hilarious?

            Aleu began to get up, her laugh lowering to a heavy chuckle.

Aleu: No. What?

            Niju walked over to Aleu and held the clog of mud in front of her, giving a bit of a cocky smile. Aleu stopped laughing and gave a “he’s too chicken” kind of expression.

Aleu: You wouldn’t dare.

Niju: Oh, really?

            Niju raised his paw full of mud and did exactly what Aleu wouldn’t think he’d do. He plopped it on her left cheek. As soon as that mud hit Aleu’s face, her expression went from “he’s to chicken” to “oh, he’s going to get it.” Niju wiped the mud all over, then to her other cheek, Aleu not moving a muscle. Niju began to laugh a little. He just hoped that she was able to take a joke.

            Niju finally put his paw down and gave a good hard look at Aleu’s face.

Niju: (smiling) you know, that looks great on you.

            Aleu picked up her paw and took some mud from her left cheek and looked at it.

Aleu: Hmm. You know what, you’re right. In fact, maybe you should try some!

            Aleu quickly took her paw and rubbed the mud on his right cheek.

Niju: Aw! I don’t think so!

            It was on, now. Niju and Aleu started to get in a mud fight. They kept on kicking mud on each other and tackling each other. They were having a good time though, knocking each other over to get the upper hand. They felt like pups again, playing in the mud.

            Niju tried his best not to be too rough with Aleu, though she was pretty strong to his surprise. No wonder she put up such a fight so long ago. He thought. Wait a minute. Why am I even thinking about that? He scolded. That was a long time ago. It doesn’t even matter anymore. I would never hurt Aleu...

            Aleu knew that Niju wasn’t giving his all when they were playing. He could tell by the way he moved that he was trying to be careful. How sweet, too bad I don’t take it as easy. She thought jokingly.

            Niju tried to pin Aleu down to get the upper hand. When Aleu was crouched below him, she saw an advantage.  She quickly stood up, putting force on her back, and Niju flipped over her and landed on his back in the mud.

Niju: Whoa!

            Niju landed making with a big thud, splashing mud everywhere. Aleu quickly pinned him down using the same technique that he used earlier.

Aleu: Look who can’t move now.

Niju: (laughing) Ah! You win!

            They both laughed at each other, covered in mud. They both loved how much of a great time they were having together. They were so glad that could laugh and play like best friends that have known each other forever, though Aleu had only known the new Niju for only a week or so.

            Niju looked at Aleu in the eyes while she looked down at him. He couldn’t think it or say it enough. God, she’s beautiful. He thought, even with mud all over her. He felt so lucky to have her as a best friend, but he hoped soon to have her as his lover, as well as hoping that she felt the same that she did. He thought that if it weren’t Aleu that he met that day, it wouldn’t be the same. He had never felt so happy, so in love in his whole life. In fact, he had never even felt loved at all before he met Aleu.

            Aleu looked down at Niju as they laughed together. It was a miracle. She couldn’t believe how much he had changed. She was so happy when she was with him. Every thing he said and everything he did was all in favor of their friendship. And for the first time her life, Aleu didn’t want to call it friendship anymore. She felt that it was something much more. She had fallen in love for the first time, and the best part was, she felt loved as well. But this feeling wasn’t new to her. Even after the night she and Niju had slept together, she felt a sense of love and a sense of being loved, and during that moment when they were together, lying there in the mud, she felt it even stronger than before.

            Aleu couldn’t help it. She had to express how she felt. She looked deep into Niju’s eyes, bent down, and licked Niju on the cheek. Niju looked at Aleu with his surprised look he always gave, but there was something different in his expression that wasn’t like the other. It seemed like a type of surprise that he couldn’t let go. He didn’t smile afterwards; he just continued to look at her, seeming like he didn’t believe what just happened. When she rose back up, she continued to look at him, but when she saw his expression, she quickly got off of him.

Aleu: (clearing her throat) Forgive me.

            Aleu looked away from Niju as she sat there. Niju got up slowly, seeing Aleu’s expression. She looked embarrassed. Niju couldn’t stand seeing her that way. He stepped towards her.

Niju: (in a soft voice) it’s alright.

Aleu: I’m… I’m so sorry, I-

            Niju stepped closer to her and interrupted.

Niju: Aleu… it’s ok.

            Aleu took a deep breath and looked away. Niju tried to look at Aleu’s face. She looked so embarrassed. He felt so bad. He knew how he would feel if that happened to him, if he would have done what she did. Niju looked at himself, and at Aleu. They were covered in mud. Niju laughed.

Niju: Look at us.

            Aleu turned at him and laughed.

Niju: (laughing) let’s get you cleaned up.

Aleu: (smiling) ok…

Chapter 40

            Aleu and Niju were getting close to the cave. It was starting to get pretty dark, and Aleu had to be on her way back soon. The two of them stayed quiet for most of the time they were walking. It was a little awkward, what had happened back at the creek. Niju still felt a little bad for Aleu. He really didn’t want her to feel embarrassed about what she did back there. If she wouldn’t have done it, he would have, and he knew it.

            Aleu tried her best to forget what she did back at the creek. She tried not to make too much contact with Niju as they walked. She still felt embarrassed, but not as much as she did right after she kissed him. Nothing could describe how embarrassed she felt. She never thought about how Niju would react. She was really thinking about nothing except her feelings when she kissed him. She couldn’t ignore them. She thought the moment was perfect, despite the fact they were covered in mud. They were having such a good time, and she thought that it was the right time to express her feelings; she just didn’t expect his reaction. As bad as she felt, she didn’t regret what she did. She was actually somewhat relieved that she got it off her chest. But she began to wonder if there was anything Niju needed to get off his chest as well. If anything, it seemed to Aleu that it was Niju who had feelings. Not to be bragging, but she could tell it a little by the way he had been acting. How he gave her his fish last time, how he risked getting caught by her father just to see her, even though he had just seen her that morning. She didn’t want to flatter herself, but it’s just the way it seemed.

            Niju thought about making small contact a few times while they were heading back to his cave. Half the time they walked, he peeked over at her to see if she still had that look of embarrassment on her face. Unfortunately, she still did, but it wasn’t as bad. Though as time passed, the worse Niju felt about Aleu. He was almost a little mad at himself for the reaction he gave her when she kissed him. Although it was kind of what he wanted all along, it was unexpected. He was surprised, but in a good way. He would have never thought that she would be the first one to make a move. And mixed in with how bad he felt, he also felt glad to know that she had feelings for him. That kiss couldn’t have just been a friendly thing, not if she was as embarrassed as she was and for how long. He thought that tonight, if he could get the timing right, he could return the favor for Aleu, and finally let her know how he felt.

            Aleu and Niju finally reached the cave. When they got to the entrance, Niju stopped.  Aleu turned around to face him. The sun was almost set, so she faced him to say good-bye.

Aleu: Well, I need to get home.

Niju: Ok.

Aleu: I’ll see you later, maybe… Have a good night.

Niju: You too.

            Aleu went up to him and gave him a hug. Niju hugged her back, passionately. When Aleu pulled away, he looked into her eyes, trying to reassure that they were still ok. There was something different in her expression. It was less embarrassed and more… sad, as if she thought that he didn’t like her because of what she did. He wanted so badly to take that pain away.

Aleu: …bye.

Niju: Bye.

            As Aleu walked away, Niju thought he’d missed his chance. But he knew he hadn’t come all this way to just see her walk away. He had to tell her. He had to let it out. This was it.

Niju: Aleu.

            Aleu turned around slowly.

Aleu: Yeah?

Niju: Don’t…

            Niju tried to gather up what he was going to say.

Niju: Just don’t feel bad about what happened back at the creek…

            Aleu turned around completely to face him.

Aleu: What?

Niju: I’m glad you did it…

            Aleu looked touched by his comment. The corner of her mouth slowly formed a half smile.

Aleu: Really.

Niju: Yeah… If you hadn’t of done it… I would have.

Aleu: (smiling)…Do you really mean that, Niju?

Niju: (smiling) Yeah… I do… I really do.

            Not a second after he said it, Aleu’s face brightened ten times more, and so did Niju’s. Aleu ran up to him, and gave him the very kiss that Niju wanted to return. Niju had waited so long for this moment, and now it had come true. This was the happiest day of his life. He could now proudly say that he was in love with Aleu, and so could she with him. That moment couldn’t have felt any more right than any moment in both of their lives. It was too good to be true. Niju’s life was now officially changed. His heart was now whole.

            With the passionate kiss, they held each other for the longest time, and they never wanted to let go. But it was dark, and Aleu needed to get home like she promised the clan. But the clan was one thing Niju cared less about. In fact, at that moment, he could have cared less about anything in the world as long as they were together.

            Aleu pulled away from the kiss gently, and looking at Niju with loving eyes, only to have him look at her with the same eyes.

Niju: I’ve thought it enough, and now I have to say it… I want to be with you, Aleu.

            Aleu lit up right after he said it. She couldn’t believe it. He was in love with her in the first place. This day couldn’t have been more perfect, she thought.

Aleu: Oh, Niju.

            Aleu gave him one last kiss before she had to depart.

Aleu: I have to go.

Niju: I wish you could stay.

Aleu: So do I…  I promised the clan.

            Niju leaned in and hugged her passionately. He really didn’t want her to go. He wished that night could have lasted forever. Aleu hugged him back and whispered in his ear.

Aleu: But I promise you that I’ll see you tomorrow. Alright?

Niju: (whispering) Alright.

            Aleu pulled away and they looked at each other in the eyes one more time. Aleu gave a reassuring, loving smile, Niju smiling back. Aleu turned and began to walk back towards the town, after a few steps, she looked back at Niju with a smirk, then turned around again and trotted away. The corner of Niju’s mouth formed a half smile as he watched the love of his life head back to her home. He was so glad to know that she could finally say that, even if it was too soon to be saying things like that. They both felt the same way about each other, so it didn’t matter. He loved her, and she loved him. They both felt that it was meant to be, and that’s all that mattered.

Chapter 41

            For a while, Aleu taking walks in the woods started to seem like an everyday thing. At first, the clan thought it was nothing. She just must be anxious to get back out there again. They thought. But the more they thought about it, and the more it happened, the more they began to realize that something was going on. One way or another, whether she was keeping something from the clan or if it was just a phase, something was up. And no one thought more than Sarah. She was starting to worry about Aleu. She seemed to end up taking her place a lot at the time. But every now and then, Aleu tended to stay with the clan and do something with them and her father, so she tried not to worry about it too much.

            One day, Aleu and Balto went back up to the medical center to check on Farris. He seemed to be doing pretty well. Of course Steven and his Father were there with them.

Aleu: How are you holding in there?

Farris: Pretty good. I think I should be out of here some time soon.

Aleu: That’s good.

Farris: Yeah, but I still have to catch up with my sleep though.

Aleu: I agree. Try not to move around too much. You don’t want to increase your chances of having to stay here for a few more days.

Farris: Yeah, I know. I’ll be careful.

Aleu: Ok.

            Aleu smiled and looked at Farris. It was pretty good to see that he was doing so well. He smiled back at him. Aleu hoped that he would keep that smile. She thought about Niju, and how both the clan and her father didn’t even know about him yet. She began to worry a little bit about his safety, and what they would think of her for hiding it for so long. She figured that she needed to tell them about him soon. But if anyone had to know, it’s Balto. She couldn’t go and tell the clan about Niju and have him not know about it. He was her father, and he had enough years of life experience to know how she should handle the situation. But she couldn’t tell anyone just yet. She had to talk to Niju.

Aleu: Well, it’s great to see you.

Farris: You too. I’ll be out soon, I promise.

Aleu: Alright.

            Aleu walked forward and have him a little nuzzle before she left. He nuzzled back happily.

Balto: Be sure to be careful until you’re able to return to us, Farris. 

Farris: Will do. Thanks, guys.

            Aleu and Balto said their good-byes and returned back to the boat. It was getting pretty late already and the clan decided to go to bed early. Balto had Jenna over to join them again.

            Before Sarah went to sleep, Aleu had to talk to her real quick. When she was settling into her place, Aleu confronted her.

Aleu: Sarah, may I have a word with you?

Sarah: Of course, Aleu.

            The two of them walked over to the bow of the boat, overlooking the town as the sun went down. When they got there, they both sat together. Aleu faced Sarah with her back against the bow.

Sarah: What’s on your mind, Aleu?

Aleu: I just wanted to thank you for your patience with me. I know I haven’t been spending much time with my clan and I’ve been leaving the responsibility up to you a lot lately. 

Sarah: Oh, it’s no problem.

Aleu: It’s just, I know I’ve been gone a lot and I want to thank you for being there to fill in for me. I really appreciate it.

Sarah: (smiling) it’s my pleasure, Aleu. I understand that you may be going through something right now. And I just want to let you know, I’m here for you if you need me.

Aleu: Thanks, Sarah. If I weren’t the Alpha of this clan than I’m sure you would be a perfect leader.

            Sarah was touched by Aleu’s comment. She did try her best to be a good substitute for Aleu whenever she was away. And Aleu complimenting her on her job was great to hear.

Sarah: (smiling) Thank you, Aleu. But I can’t image anyone taking your place. 

Aleu: Try me.

            The both of them laughed. Aleu felt so lucky to have Sarah there for her to talk about anything. She really felt that Sarah would make a great leader. She heard about how she did during her absence, and she was impressed.

Aleu: Alright. Let’s get some rest. We’re gonna need it.

Sarah: Yes ma’am.

            Aleu and Sarah walked together back to the stern of the boat, where the rest of the clan was settling into their sleeping places.

Chapter 42

     Aleu woke up in the middle of the night. She looked around her to see that everyone was asleep. She could see the moonlight reflect off their fur. She looked over at Nuk. He was snoring, heavily. Sarah was laying on her felt side right next to him. As Nuk continued to snore, Sarah’s foot kicked Nuk in the head, stopping his snoring. Aleu laughed. Wow. They don’t even have to be awake to fight. She thought jokingly.

            Aleu got up quietly, being careful not to disturb any of the clan members. She had to talk to Niju about Balto and the clan. They had to know about him. She tried to ignore the possible outcome of them finding out about it. They had to stop hiding their friend ship from them, or their love for each other.

            Aleu quietly tip toed over the clan members that were in her way. When she got to the other side, she looked to her left. She saw Balto and Jenna lying together, fast asleep. Balto was lying behind Jenna, facing the same direction, with his arm around her. They were cuddled together like a happy couple. And they looked happy as Aleu watched them. She was happy too, just to see that they were so close in their relationship. She couldn’t be more thankful to have such good looking parents, and caring at that.

            Aleu slowly walked down the plank to the ground. She took one last look at the boat, praying that they wouldn’t worry too much if the clan woke up to see Aleu gone again. She turned back to the woods, and ran to see Niju.

Chapter 43

     Niju was lying down in the entrance of the cave, the front of his body lying in the grass, wide awake. He began to think of the dream that he had earlier that day. Although he and Aleu were together, his dream haunted him.

            In his dream, he was with Aleu and the clan. Balto was there too. But they weren’t in favor of him being present. They were all surrounding him, angry looks on their faces. Farris was facing him about ten feet away, not looking too happy. He tried to look around for Aleu. He spotted her behind him. She had a sad look on her face. He tried to step toward her to cheer her up, but Nuk, Sumac and Yak blocked his path. He tried to look over them, calling her name. She saw a glimpse of her and she began to walk away, with tears and her eyes, Balto walking next to her with an upset look on his face. He begged and pleaded for them not to leave, until Aleu woke up that day.

            The more Niju thought of this dream, the more it haunted him. The clan’s faces, Aleu’s tears. It was too much. He tried to block it out of his head the best he could. But then he thought about how no one knew about him yet. Neither the clan nor Balto knew that they were together. He had forgotten all about them. He was too concerned about Aleu to even think about it. He hadn’t even apologized to them yet. What if they found out about his and Aleu’s relationship? It would be too late to even try to say anything.

            He decided that it had been too long. He had to talk to them, and soon. In fact, he planned that the minute the sun settled into the sky the next day, he was going to talk to Balto, and finally apologize to him.

            All of a sudden, Niju heard a faint whisper in the air, calling his name.

Aleu: Niju.

            Niju looked around to see if anyone was there. He looked to his left and saw nothing.

Aleu: Niju.

            Niju looked to his right, and saw Aleu’s head poking out from behind a tree.

Niju: Aleu?

            Aleu came out from behind the tree and approached Niju. He got up and walked towards Aleu with a smile on his face. He was glad to see her. She always had the ability to cheer him up whenever he felt down.

            They reached each other and hugged passionately. Niju pulled away after the long hug and looked at Aleu curiously.

Niju: What are you doing here?

Aleu: I need to talk to you.

Niju: About what?

Aleu: Let’s go inside.

Niju: Ok.

            Aleu walked toward the opening of the cave and Niju followed. Niju was pretty concerned about what Aleu had to say. A half a day together and there was already trouble.  What could it be about? He thought.

            The two of them stopped in the middle of the cave and faced each other.

Niju: What is it? What’s wrong?

Aleu: Nothing’s really wrong.

Niju: Well, what did you come here to tell me?

Aleu: Haven’t I been the only person you’ve talked to ever since you’ve been here?

Niju: Yes.

Aleu: So no one else knows you’re here?

Niju: Right.

Aleu: Well… I think it’s time to finally tell everyone that you’re here. It’s been over a week and neither my father nor the clan knows you’re here.

            Niju thought about it for a while. It was a little strange. He was just thinking the same thing about having to tell the others about him.

Niju: You’re right… I think we’ve hid this long enough.

Aleu: Listen, I’ll talk to my dad in the morning and we’ll settle this whole thing out.

Niju: No, Aleu… It has to be me. I’ll go.

Aleu: (with a worried look) what? No, you can’t. My father might still see you as a threat.

Niju: I know. But I need to show him, myself, that I’m not.

            Niju did have a good point. Aleu agreed with his suggestion but she was afraid what would happen. What if her father didn’t approve of him? What if he just shoved him off the minute he saw him? She tried not to think so negative but it just seemed way too possible for it to happen.

Niju: Aleu, listen to me. I appreciate you trying to protect me, but this is something I have to do on my own. The reason I came here in the first place was to right what was wrong…

            Aleu was silent for a minute. She was so worried about what might happen.

Aleu: I’m just… so scared…

            Niju looked at her. She looked upset by his decision. He understood what she was thinking, but he knew that this was a task that was assigned to him and to him alone.

            He approached Aleu to comfort her.

Niju: It’s alright to be scared, Aleu. I am too.

            Aleu lifted her head up with his paw.

Niju: We all have our fears. We both know that I had mine…

            Aleu knew what he was talking about. He had a very good point. She just couldn’t let go of the possibilities of how the situation might end up. Aleu looked into Niju’s eyes. He saw a tear trickle down her face.

Niju: Aleu… I have never dreamed of a better life than the one that I have with you. And you’re the one that made it all possible… and know this… what ever happens-

Aleu: I know…

            Niju leaned forward and hugged her passionately. He really couldn’t think of a better life he would have without Aleu. He felt so incredibly lucky to have her, despite the troubles they had in the past. He was never happier before she came into his life.

            The both of them held each other, not wanting to ever let go.

Aleu: I love you…

            Niju pulled away, and looked at Aleu in the eyes. He couldn’t believe it. She actually said it. He would have never thought that she would be the first to say it. He was speechless, but at the same time, never been happier. He now knew the divine truth. Aleu loved him, and he loved her back.

            Niju leaned forward and kissed her. After a while, he pulled away and drifted into her eyes.

Niju: I love you too…

            Niju smirked a little.

Niju: I can’t believe I finally said it…

            Aleu smiled at his remark. She felt the same way. She had actually been waiting for it as much as Niju has. She didn’t always realize it, but in some way, she has always felt this way about Niju ever since they became friends.

Niju: Aleu, I love you so much!

            They quickly embraced each other one last time, and held each other tightly. They both felt the deep compassion for each other. Niju felt that he could have held her forever, and never let go, and Aleu felt exactly the same. She had never felt so in love in her whole life. She wanted them to stay together forever, to run away together, to have pups and get married. She wanted it all, and she wanted it to be with him… Although she would have never thought of it in the past, but she now realized that Niju was the one she had been waiting for… He was the one that she wanted to hold her, to comfort her whenever she was sad, to love her with all of his heart and all of his strength, and to just be there, and that’s exactly what Niju planned on doing…

Chapter 44

Aleu and the clan decided to go on a stroll through the forest for the day and spend some time. Farris had been brought out of the medical center early to rejoin them. They were all very glad to see that he was alright, as well as he was glad to just see them.

They thought it would be pretty good for them to hunt some game to see if there are any good tactics besides the one they had been using. Aleu wanted to give Niju as much time as possible and get out of the way so he could talk to Balto. She was still extremely worried about what might happen. She knew how Balto reacted towards Niju that long time ago, and she didn’t know if Balto would be just as mad. She hoped that the time between now and then provided a chance for him to forget, at least a little. Despite her worries, Aleu did try to keep confident. She thought about how happy she felt with Niju, and how if two beings were meant to be together, that the Lord wouldn’t want the two of them to separate. And Aleu hoped that Seph, where ever he was, thought the same.

_

            Niju got up a little earlier than usual to meet Balto. He took his precious time to catch breakfast and put together what he was going to say. He was beyond nervous, but when ever he doubted that he would say yes, he thought of Aleu, how he just knew in his heart that they were supposed to be together, and that boosted his confidence a little bit.            

            He started to pray. He wanted to thank Aleu for every bit of friendship that she gave to him, and all the great times he had. He wanted to tell her how beautiful he thought she was and how he felt like the luckiest person on earth to have her as his lover, or even just his friend. He wanted to tell her that ever since they were friends, that he had always had feelings for her, and that he always thought that his life couldn’t have been better without her. It was time for him to make one of the biggest apologies in his life. It was time for him to make the decision that would either make his life better, or make it hell.

            Niju walked at a steady pace towards Balto’s boat. His heart was racing in his chest. He took deep breaths to try and calm down.

            He had finally reached the boat. He looked to see if Balto was on the deck. He couldn’t see him. But he could see a roof of perhaps a small room on the deck. Maybe he’s in there. Niju thought.

            Niju slowly walked up the plank that lead up to the deck. He looked closer around the corner as he approached it. Once he was on the deck, he walked down to the door way of the small room in the middle. He peeked around the corner and saw him, sleeping. Great. He thought. Now he’s probably going to be grumpy from waking him up too.

            Niju decided that it wasn’t the right time for him to be talking to Balto. He thought that it would be better to come back later in the day. He turned to walk away when he heard something move. He looked back into the room and he saw Balto moving around. He sat up and yawned. Niju stood still, hoping that he wouldn’t open his eyes just yet, but he was too late.

Balto slowly opened his eyes and looked right at the mysterious figure in front of him. At first it was all blurry, but his vision cleared up quickly. It was Niju.

Balto: Niju?

            Once he shook the tired out of his head, he stood up to face him. This was very unexpected to Balto, and he wasn’t too happy. Balto saw that Niju didn’t seem to be any form of a threat so he spared the growling, though still keeping his distance, he still didn’t want to take any chances.  

Balto: (in a low suspicious tone) what are you doing here?

Niju: Please, Balto. Don’t be alarmed. I’ve come here to talk to you.

            Balto was taken back a little. His voice had changed, and just by seeing him the way that he was, so had his personality. He couldn’t be so sure though, he needed to hear more.

Balto: Why should I listen?

Niju: (with a sigh) Look, I know that it’s hard to believe that I’m here wanting to talk to you after what happened last time I saw you, but-

Balto: You’ve got that right.

Niju: Balto, please… With all do respect, I’ve come all this way to talk to you. The least you can do is listen to what I have to say…

            Niju did have a point. Balto figured that nothing suspicious had happened so far. Niju was being fair and respectful. It would only be fair to hear what he had to say. Balto walked up to Niju and sat down in front of him, making direct eye contact.

Balto: Alright, Niju. You’ve got my attention… I’m listening.

            Niju was pretty surprised by how Balto was reacting towards him. A whole lot better than Aleu did when she first saw him a while ago, that’s for sure, but he didn’t want to bash his lover, even if she couldn’t hear it.

            Niju took a few seconds to put his words together. This was it. There was no turning back now. Alright. He thought. Here it goes.

Niju: Balto, when I first met you I didn’t give off the best impression.

            Balto nodded in agreement. He remembered the first time he met him, at the side of the water when they were fighting with Nuk, Yak and Sumac.

Niju: I was rude, no… I was cruel to you, your daughter, and everyone else in the clan. I thought that my way of doing things was the best way. I had no confidence in anyone and I cared about no one besides myself.

            Alright. Balto thought. He’s taken the first step, admitting what he’s done wrong.

Niju: But most of all… I was afraid. I was afraid that if the lifestyle that I had known for so long changed, nothing would ever be the same, and I didn’t want that.

            There you go, Niju. Balto thought. That’s the big one. Niju had finally admitted his wrong, and now he just had to realize what he had to do.

Niju: But then something came to me… and I realized something…

            Niju made direct contact with Balto.

Niju: I don’t want to be afraid anymore… I don’t want to live the same lifestyle forever. If I didn’t have any change in my life than nothing would ever happen to me. I would never learn anything. All that fear, it-it was getting me no where.

            Wow. Balto thought. He’s on a role. Niju was really putting scores on his apology. Though he didn’t realize it, he was doing an excellent job.

Niju: That being said, what I want to do is become the very thing that I was afraid of. I want to right every wrong that I’ve ever done in my life, no matter how hard it is and no matter what it takes… I want to fix it… So I plead for your forgiveness, Balto.

            Niju walked up to Balto and bowed his head below him as a sign of respect. Balto’s heart brightened as he heard these words. He was so proud of Niju for wanting to turn everything around. He had indeed become the very thing that he was afraid of. He had become change, and he was happy for him.

Balto: (smiling) you have already earned it, Niju…

            Niju raised his head and looked at Balto. He was shocked. He would have expected a lot more from Balto than he did from Aleu. But despite it, he felt a sense of inevitable hope in his heart.

Niju: Really?... Why-I mean.

            Balto laughed.

Balto: You’ve earned my forgiveness because you have admitted your wrong and are willing to fix it. 

Niju: But, I… I don’t-

Balto: It takes real change in order to make it, Niju. That being said, I think it’s already made.

            Niju was filled with Hope. He almost couldn’t believe it was happening. Balto was really forgiving him!

Niju: (smiling) you really think so?

Balto: (smiling back) I know so…

            Niju couldn’t help but express his happiness. He ran up to Balto and hugged him. Balto was a little surprised at first, and he thought it was a bit awkward, but he had to imagine how happy Niju felt, and hugged him back.

Niju: Thank you, so much, Balto… You have no idea how much this means to me…

Balto: (pretending to suffocate) I think I do. (cough) I could feel it.

            Niju backed off quickly, realizing he was probably squishing the poor guy.

Niju: Sorry, about that.

Balto: (laughing) its fine.

Niju: Oh, and… one more thing.

Balto: What is it, Niju?

Niju: Aleu…

            Balto began to feel a little curious, even a little worried. The way Niju said his daughter’s name didn’t really imply a positive vibe.

Balto: (concerned) What about her?

Niju: Oh, nothing bad. It’s just…

            Balto figured that Niju wanted to talk to Aleu and try to apologize to her as well.

Balto: Oh, don’t worry. I can come with you when you go to talk to her.

Niju: I already have…

Balto: (confused) what?

Niju: That’s the second thing I came here to talk to you about… You see, I apologized to her about a week or so ago…

Balto: And… how did she take it?

Niju: Not so well at first.

Balto: I could imagine.

Niju: Yeah… but… the day after, she apologized to me.

            Balto was pretty taken back. That was the last thing he expected to know that Aleu apologized to him when she didn’t even do anything wrong, or so it seemed.

Balto: Why?

Niju: She said she knew that she hadn’t give me anything near a warm welcome when she saw me that day, and she wanted to make up for it… I practically told her that it wasn’t her job to apologize, that I was the one that needed to say sorry.

            Balto continued to listen. This was getting intriguing.

Niju: So we both forgave each other and… well, we became friends after that.

Balto: (smiling) well, that’s good.

            Niju became a little nervous. He knew that there was more to it than that. He was afraid how Balto would take it if he told him that he and Aleu were in love with each other.

Niju: But, that’s not all that I came here to tell you…

            Balto was pretty concerned. What else was there to say?

Niju: I need to ask one more thing of you…

Balto: Go on…

            Niju took a deep breath and prepared himself. He had to say it, no matter what the outcome might be, he had to say it.

Niju: We’re in love, Balto…

            Balto was in shock. This was the last thing he expected. He would have never thought that they would fall in love. In a sense, Balto felt happy for them, but he also felt a little worried about his daughter. Was she even happy with him?

Balto: (in a low tone) are you now?

Niju: Yes. We just recently realized we had feelings for each other.

Balto: …How long did you plan on hiding this from me.

Niju: I didn’t plan on hiding it from you at all, Balto, I swear. In fact, we both decided yesterday that this needed to be discussed with you…

Balto: Did you really?

Niju: Yes. Friendship was one thing we did keep secret, I admit. But I knew that we couldn’t keep from you the fact that me and her were in love…

Balto: And what did Aleu say about it…

Niju: At first, she insisted that she talk to you about it. But I told her that it had to be me, that talking to you was a task that I had to complete on my own…

            Balto had to think for a while. He started to realize something. All those times that Aleu went to take a walk were to see Niju. How could she hide this from him, and from her pack?

Balto: How could she do this?

            Niju really didn’t want Balto to think that it was all Aleu’s fault. He knew deep inside him that it was partly his fault to.

Niju: Please, don’t blame it all on Aleu, Balto.

Balto: Is there a reason I shouldn’t.

Niju: Yes… I admit, part of it was my fault. I didn’t take the time to tell you in the first place, I know. That was my wrong doing, and I hope you’ll forgive me for it… but there’s something you need to know.

            Balto really felt like he could care less about what Niju had to say now. But he had a feeling in his gut that Niju was telling the truth. Although he looked like he wasn’t listening, Balto tried to paid attention.  

Niju: There was something about Aleu that I couldn’t see when I first met her. Now that my eyes have finally opened, I had realized something. I was missing out on something much larger than life itself…

Balto: And what’s that?

Niju: Love… And when I experience it with Aleu I experience it all… When I’m with her, I’m not on earth anymore, I’m in Heaven. When she talks to me, I get lost in her words. When I walk beside her I feel like I can walk forever.

            Balto began to realize it. Niju must have really meant it when he said he was in love with Aleu. He looked at Niju as he continued to speak.

Niju: Aleu is the best thing that has ever happened to me, Balto… She’s the one that let this second chance be possible, she’s the one that taught me how to love… and if I ever lost her, I… I don’t know what I’d do…        

Balto was moved. He had never heard anyone speak like that about someone they loved. He started to think, Maybe Aleu and Niju are meant for each other.

Niju: So I ask this of you, will you let me be with her?

            There was a long pause.

Balto: I want you to do something for me, Niju…

Niju: What is it, Balto?

Balto: I want you to get off my boat, go back to the forest…

            Niju began to loose hope. It seemed obvious that Balto didn’t want him in his sight. He started to think about Aleu. What was he going to tell her?

Balto: And I want you to tell Aleu… that you love her, that you’ll always care for her, and that you have never been happier with anyone else in your life. That always tends to do the trick.  

            Niju couldn’t believe it. Balto was accepting it. He was accepting the fact that they were in love. All of Niju’s hopes were coming true.

Balto: (smilng) And you can add in a few things if you want to.

            Niju smiled at Balto. He had never felt so much hope in his life. It seemed like everything was going to be alright from now on. He wished more than anything to have Aleu with him at that very moment.

Niju: (smiling) Balto, I don’t know what to say… except thank you… Thank you, so much. I swear I’ll do everything to make her happy.

Balto: You better. 

Niju: You have my word…

            Niju couldn’t describe how happy he felt inside. It seemed like he had already completed his task, that he was now completely forgiven.

Niju: Thank you so much…

Balto: (softly) go to her, Niju.

            Niju began to turn to run in the other direction, back to the woods. He stopped to look at Balto a last time. He would never forget him, how he made it possible for him and Aleu to be together. Niju turned back around, jumped off the boat, and ran to the woods to meet his lover.

Chapter 45

Sarah: Well, it’s great to have you back, Farris.

Farris: I tell you what, guys, it’s great to be back. I missed you guys.

Aleu: I missed you too, Farris. And I’m sure everyone else feels the same, right guys?

            They all said “right” as if they were going to get in trouble if they didn’t.

Farris: (with a chuckle) Thanks, guys.

            Farris looked over at Aleu and winked. Aleu gave him a friendly wink back at him and continued to lead them. Farris watched Aleu as she got ahead of them. He was so glad that things worked out between the two of them after what happened. Aleu is such a great person to get along with, he thought. She’s so reasonable and forgiving, and kind… and caring… and beautiful, he thought. In a sense he was sort of glad that they had argued. He now knew that if something like that happened between them, it would all work out alright in the end, and knowing that, he felt that what he and Aleu had was special. He began to admire her with every minute that passed. The way she directed and led them, the way she reasoned with them and talked to them. She’s so kind to all of us… unlike Niju!  He thought. He couldn’t get over how much he despised that wolf and how he treated them. If I ever see him again, He thought, I’ll make him wish he was never cruel to us, especially Aleu!   

Chapter 46

     Niju continued to run towards the forest with all the confidence in the world. He couldn’t wait to see Aleu again and bring her in his arms and tell her how much he loved her. He felt so glad that he almost knew for certain that the clan would accept his apology and welcome him back. He didn’t have a doubt in the world, for he was too happy to have doubt.

            He loved Aleu so much. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her and then some. He wanted to marry her. He wanted to have pups with her and watch them grow up with her at his side. And when they passed on, he wanted to spend the rest of eternity with her in Heaven. That being thought, he thanked God for his opportunity for this second chance to change his life, to change him, and most of all, to let him realize that change was the very thing that made all of this possible.

            Niju could smell Aleu. She was close, he could feel it. But he also smelt something else. Something that he knew he hadn’t smelt in a long time. He tried to ignore it to keep track of Aleu’s scent.

            He ran past a group of thin trees and saw a large group of bushes. Aleu’s scent was stronger than ever, as well as the other strange scent. But he didn’t care; all he wanted was to reach Aleu as soon as he could. He sprinted through the bushes, ignoring the slight pain he felt with the branches scratching against his side. As he got closer and closer to the opening, he waited for what there was to see on the other side.

_

            Aleu could hear a thick rustling of bushes to her right. She wondered what the heck it could me. After she heard it, it stopped immediately. She looked to her right to see a dark wolf like figure leaping out of the bushes, running out into the open. She got a better look at the figure and saw to her surprise that it was Niju. Oh, no! She thought. What’s he doing here?!

            Niju slid out into the middle of the opening as he tried to stop himself from running any further. He could hear the gasps of surprise by everyone around him. It was the clan that he had smelt, and they were all there, every single one of them. They surrounded him as he looked all around. He saw Nuk, Yuk, Sumac, Sarah, everybody. He could see Aleu among the crowd, looking more worried than he had ever seen her. And next to her, was Farris, not looking happy at all what so ever.

Nuk: Niju! What are you doin’ here?!

Yuk: Yeah. You’s not supposed to be here!

            Niju’s heart felt like it was going to break out of his chest. He looked all around him. He could see the faces on all the wolves distorting into anger. This looked all too familiar to him, and he knew it wasn’t good.

Sarah: It looks like the coward has returned.

            Niju could see the wolves begin to growl as they agreed with Sarah’s comment. He looked in front of him and saw Farris walking slowly into the circle, head lowered, and fangs bared.

Farris: So… you’ve come back. Haven’t you learned your lesson the first time we told you to leave?!

            Niju looked over Farris’s shoulder and saw Aleu. She began to panic. She looked so afraid, but he knew he couldn’t go over to her to comfort her.

Aleu: Farris, wait!

Farris: Stand back, Aleu! He could be dangerous!

            Niju thought this was an outrage. He would never hurt Aleu. But he didn’t want to have the nerve to show anger; it would only persuade them more that he hadn’t changed.

Farris: Why have you come back?!

Niju: Farris, please. I mean you no harm-

Farris: The heck, you mean me no harm! You think you can just walk back into this clan and think nothing’s changed?!

            He has no clue. Niju thought. And as much as he wanted to say it, he didn’t want to increase the chances of his throat being ripped out.

            Niju could see in the distance, a wolf running towards their direction. As he got closer, he could see who it was. It was Balto! What is he doing here? What ever the reason, he looked just as panicky as Aleu did. It seemed like he somehow had a feeling that something like this was going to happen.

Aleu: Papa! What are you going here?

Balto: Farris! It’s alright, don’t hurt him-

Farris: Stay out of this, Balto!

            Neither of them had ever seen Farris so mad before. He looked so menacing. It seemed like it wasn’t even Farris that was yelling at them.

Niju: Farris, please. Just hear me out.

Farris: I could care less of what you have to say! Nothing comes out of your mouth but lies and deceit.

Niju: I’ve changed, Farris!

Farris: You?! Changed?! Ha! That’s a good one. The day you will ever change will be the day a grey hair falls off of your back… You’ll never change.

Niju: That’s not true!

Farris: Ha! We’ll see about that.

            Farris began to approach Niju slowly. He began to snarl at him. His piercing eyes were filled with hatred. Niju realized that there was going to be a fight. He didn’t want to fight Farris at all, as much as he insulted him, he didn’t want to hurt him. He just wanted him to realize that he had changed. And it seemed like there was no hope for that.

Farris: (snarling) I’ve been waiting so long for this…

            Niju looked all around him for a way to escape. There was no way out. No way to turn back. He saw that the others weren’t snarling anymore. They were watching closely to see what was going to happen. He looked over at Aleu. She looked so unbelievably scared.

Niju: Aleu.

Farris: Leave her out of this!!!

            Farris pounced towards Niju, a menacing look on his face. Niju quickly slid to his right, dodging his blow. Farris landed hardly on the ground and got back up quickly. He took a second leap towards him and knocked him on the ground. Niju landed with a thump on his side. It hurt a little bit, and he tried to bet back up.

Farris: Get back up and fight like a real wolf, you coward!

            Aleu couldn’t take it anymore. She couldn’t just stand there and watch Niju get killed.

Aleu: (running towards them) Farris! Stop it!

            Farris glanced over at Aleu, showing his teeth.

Farris: Stay back, Aleu…

            Niju tried to lift his head up. He could see Aleu running towards Farris. What are you doing, Aleu?! He thought. Get out of here?!

Aleu: Stop hurting him!

Farris: (snarling) I said get back!!!

            To everyone’s surprise, Farris turned quickly towards Aleu and snapped at her. Aleu stepped back in surprise and fear. Everyone around them gasped at the sight of it. Farris had just snapped at their alpha female. But the minute Niju saw Farris’s fangs directed towards Aleu, he began to show his own. And when he snapped at her… that did it…

            A deep hatred grew in the pit of Niju’s heart. Oh, no you don’t! Niju thought. I don’t think so! Niju quickly got up and bolted towards Farris. No one messes with my Aleu!  

            Niju approached Farris, snarling. He clamped his fangs onto Farris’s back, and chomped tightly. He could hear the loud whimper that Farris gave out when his fangs pierced into his back. Niju then brought all his force into his shoulders and neck, and flung Farris across the opening with all his strength.

            Balto watched in horror as he saw something too similar to what happened to him a long time ago with Steel. Farris flew across the ground, landing on his back, tumbling over and over and finally making a loud thump on his chest, where he had been hurt before. He stood still for a moment.

            Niju stared at his opponent on the ground, breathing heavily. As the seconds, passed, he began to realize what he just did. He looked around him. Everyone was either in awe or in disappointment. He looked to his left and saw Aleu, in front of her father. She looked… afraid. Niju felt a deep guilt for what he did just then.

            Niju stepped closer to Aleu.

Niju: Aleu?

            Aleu quickly stepped back from him as he got closer. Niju’s heart died when he saw this. He stepped forward again.

Niju: Aleu… please…

            With every step Niju took, Aleu took a step back. He looked at her face. There was a tear trickling down the side of her face. Niju looked at her with saddened eyes, pleading her not to be afraid. He looked back over at Farris. He was trying to get up, making grunts in pain from the effort. What have I done? He thought.

            Niju closed his eyes and turned away. He growled at himself and bolted out of the clearing, into the woods. With every second that passed by, the more his heart began to fade away. He began to cry as he ran. Aleu was afraid of him. That was the last thing that Niju ever wanted her to feel. He could hardly bare it. He wanted to get away from everyone. He forgot even wanting to apologize for everyone. The look on Aleu’s face when she saw him haunted him. Just… the way she looked at me…

            Aleu stared at the ground as everyone neared her. The more she thought of Niju the worse she felt. She never would have thought it would come to this. She seemed so positive about it before, and now it was the complete opposite. She never knew if she was going to see the love of her life again, and she felt a strong feeling of guilt for making him feel the same way.

            Aleu began to cry. She collapsed, and sobbed her heart out. Everyone gathered around her quickly. They were so confused about what just happened, but what ever it was, it was practically killing Aleu. Balto lied next to her to comfort her. He reached over and nuzzled her.

Balto: I’m so sorry, sweet heart…

Aleu: (sobbing heavily) I loved him so much…

Balto: I know…

            The clan looked at each other in surprise and confusion. It seemed to all make since. When Aleu tried to stop Farris from hurting Niju, it wasn’t because she didn’t want violence… it was because she loved him. They all thought of the times she had gone out to take walks, and the times she spent the night in the forest… she was spending time with Niju. Neither of them even knew where to start. The last time they checked, Niju was their enemy. And now he was someone that Aleu held dear to herself. They all began to question themselves… what happened?

Chapter 47

     Aleu and Balto were inside the medical center with Farris. They had to get Steven to get him again, right after he just got out. Farris was still sleeping. Steven approached him and patted his sides softly.

Steven: How much trouble are you getting yourself into, buddy?

            Aleu and Balto looked at Farris. His eyes began to open slowly, and right when they opened, they met Aleu’s.

Steven: You should only be in here for a day or two, ok? Just get some rest and you’ll be fine.

            Steven walked back over to his father’s office. Aleu walked foreword to talk to Farris.

Aleu: Hi, Farris. 

Farris: (in a tired whisper) Aleu…

            Aleu didn’t want really want to say anything more to Farris that she was sorry about what happened. She wasn’t being a best friend to him and she felt that she needed to apologize.

Aleu: Farris, I’m so sorry about everything.

Farris: Aleu.

Aleu: I just… I was foolish and I wasn’t being a very good leader to any one of you.

Farris: Aleu.

Aleu: I would have never forgiven him if I knew it would come to this.

Farris: (in a louder tone) Aleu!

Aleu: Sorry.

Farris: (in a raspy voice) you don’t need to apologize… I’m the one who should be saying sorry.

Aleu: (confused) what?

Farris: I owe it to you…

Aleu: Why? You did nothing wrong.

Farris: Yes I did… I tried to hurt you…

Aleu: Oh, Farris. That’s ok. Its-

Farris: No it’s not. It’s not ok… I let my anger get the better of me.

Aleu: Farris, I-

Farris: I should have never gotten so angry with him. I should have listened to what he had to say and give him a chance. The only one who needs to say sorry is me… To both you and Niju-

Aleu: Why to him? He’s the one who got you in here. He needs to apologize.

Farris: I’ve already forgiven him…

Aleu: What? But why?

Farris: Because the reason he hurt me was to protect you… to get you out of harm’s way, which I put you in… And that’s worthy of my forgiveness.

            Aleu never took the time to think about it. She was too washed up in her guilt to think that Niju was only trying to protect her. She felt so stupid for thinking otherwise.

Farris: I should have considered your safety… I thought I was in love with you…

Aleu: Farris, you told me before that we were just friends…

Farris: I know I did… but it took me a while to realize how much you meant to me. And now I realize that you must mean a whole lot more to Niju to be the one who considered your safety… 

            Farris was right. She felt like a fool for not seeing it before. She knew before how much she meant to Niju, and how much he meant to her. And she never thought he would do what he did to Farris in order to make sure she didn’t get hurt.

Farris: I would have never guessed that Niju had actually changed… I wasn’t open enough to listen to what he had to say, to think that he would ever change, and I thought he never would… but I was wrong. And what he did to me was all the proof I needed… because he did what he did to protect you.

            Aleu thought about it. She began to see hope in their relationship, as well as feel it in her heart. Maybe it wasn’t over. Maybe the two of them could still be together.

Farris: He deserves you, Aleu… for being the thing that he was once afraid of, he deserves you…

            Aleu began to feel happy. As unexpected as Farris’s reaction was, it made Aleu very glad to know that Farris actually wanted them to be together.

Farris: Do you still love him?

            Aleu knew the answer to that, and some how, she felt like she had always known.

Aleu: …Yes, I do.

Farris: Than go to him, Aleu… You both deserve each other.

            Aleu burst into happiness. She went up to Farris and gave him a friendly nuzzle.

Aleu: Thank you so much, Farris.

Farris: No need to thank me, just go, before you miss him.

            Balto looked at Aleu. She looked so unbelievably happy. And if Aleu was happy, so was Balto, regardless of what happened, or of what was kept secret, or of the kind of person Niju was before this big change took flight, he was happy for her.  His daughter was love, and that’s all that mattered.

Chapter 48

     Aleu and the clan all gathered around on Balto’s boat to talk. She took it upon herself to owe every single one of them an apology for how she had been acting lately. They were gathered in a half circle with Aleu sitting down in front of them.

Aleu: There are a few things that I need to say to you guys… I know that I haven’t been the best leader to you…

            Everyone in the clan watched and listened carefully.

Aleu: I hid things from you; I lied to you, and most of all I haven’t been acting like a good alpha female…

            Aleu could tell by the look in their eyes that they all agreed with her, and that’s what she expected.

Aleu: Now I can imagine how all of you feel about this. Some of you may be disappointed by it, and some of you may even hate me for it… (sigh) and I don’t blame you.

            A few of the members looked at each other. They didn’t really expect that. They all knew that they didn’t hate Aleu. In fact, they couldn’t imagine who else would be a good alpha besides Aleu. They began to feel guilty for thinking Aleu was acting like a bad leader.

Aleu: And Sarah…

            Sarah looked at Aleu in response.

Aleu: You’re the one I need to apologize to the most… I’ve taken advantage of you… Whenever I was gone, I knew that I could always count on you to keep the clan in line.

            Sarah was surprised, but in a sense flattered at the same time.

 Aleu: And you do such an amazing job. You really do.

            Sarah smiled at her comment. She was proud of what she was able to do in Aleu’s absence, but nothing compared to Aleu’s leadership. She knew that the whole clan loved having Aleu as their leader and she really didn’t want anyone to take her place.

Aleu: And that’s why I’m going to let you decide who will be the alpha in this clan. And whomever you chose, whether it be me or Sarah or anyone else… I’m not going to stop you from making what you think is the right choice… So what’ll it be?

            The clan looked around and at each other. Small conversations took place, quiet enough for Aleu not to hear. Sarah motioned towards them to stop, and they all kept quiet. Sarah stepped foreword.

Sarah: Aleu… we agree with you when you say that you haven’t been the best alpha to us.

            Aleu lowered her head in sadness.

Sarah: And I’m sure we all agree with you when you say that you’ve hid things from us. And I’m sure most of us think that this clan would be a whole lot better off without you as our leader.

            Aleu was shot to the heart. She had never heard anyone in the clan say such a thing to her before, but she couldn’t say anything because she did not blame them.

Sarah: (smiling) but I’m not one of them…

            Aleu looked at Sarah. Did she really mean that? Did Sarah really think that after all she did, she still wanted Aleu to be their leader?

Nuk: Yeah, well, neither am I.

Kima: Me neither.

Kori: Or me.

Yak: Me neither.

Sumac: What are we talking about?

Aleu was overwhelmed. She had no idea that she meant so much to them.

Sarah: (smiling) I don’t think anyone of us sees a better alpha taking your place, Aleu.

Nuk: Yeah. I mean, what would we do without you? If Sarah was alpha than none of us would ever get along.

            An angry look came upon Sarah’s face towards Nuk.

Aleu: (laughing) Easy, Sarah. (turning towards Nuk) Thanks, Nuk.

            Aleu looked at her clan. They were all smiling at her. This made her feel wanted, and loved.

Aleu: Wow… I would have never thought that I mean so much to you guys…

            They all waited for her answer.

Aleu: You know what… I’d love to continue to be your alpha.

            Everyone began to cheer. Aleu looked at her clan, they looked happier than she had ever seen them before, and it was hard to believe that she was the reason for that.

            The clan began to settle down.

Sarah: I will say this though, I’m not sure you can do this on your own.

Nima: Yeah. You’ll need some help.

Kori: Someone to help you make decisions.

Sumac: Yeah. (snort) And help you scratch your ears.

            Yak elbowed Sumac in the side.

Sumac: Ow! What?

            Aleu laughed. Even if Sumac was a little slow sometimes, he was still special to Aleu.

Sarah: (smiling) I think what we’re all trying to say is… I think we need an alpha male…

            Aleu looked at everyone. They all smiled at each other, as if they had the same idea. She thought of Niju. Oh, he’d be a great alpha. She thought. She just hoped that they thought the same that she did.

Sarah: You’re thinking it. We’re all thinking it…

            Aleu waited to get a clearer answer to what they were thinking. Her heart began to beat fast.

Sarah: If it’s surely true that he’s changed… than let’s give him a warm welcome…

            Aleu looked at her clan one last time. By the looks on their faces, they all agreed. They all wanted Niju to be their alpha male. Aleu was filled with happiness, overwhelmed with joy.

Sarah: Go get him, Aleu.

Aleu: (approaching Sarah) I hope this is the last time I ask this of you, but take care of them while I’m gone.

Sarah: With pleasure.

            Aleu smiled at Sarah as a sign of deep appreciation. What would I do without her? She thought.

            Aleu jumped off the boat and headed towards the forest, where she was sure she would find Niju, who she hoped would soon to be her alpha male.

Chapter 49

     Niju was heading back to his cave from his walk. He had to clear his head for a while. But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t get the guilt out of his mind. The look of fear on Aleu’s face was planted in his mind. It haunted him so.

            As he slumped through the forest, his heart heavy with sadness of his loss, he began to wonder. Why did this happen... we were so close to becoming whole, then this happened… why… I felt so confident that we were able to be together… how foolish was I… why didn’t I take the time to see the possible negativities… why did I let my heart get in the way of my mind… why didn’t I think that this could have happened… why?

            Niju began to feel that his apologies, his friendship with Aleu, and his change was all for not. It’s over… it’s all over… He thought.

            Niju was coming up to his cave. He sighed as he approached it, knowing the first thing he would do when he entered it would be collapsing to the floor and falling asleep, not wanting to wake for the rest of his life. He remembered that one time he saw Aleu in his cave… the time she apologized to him for giving him an unpleasant greeting. He remembered the night they spent together in that cave, and snuggled against each other. He remembered the time they sat next to each other and watched the sunset, and the stars. He remembered the time he taught Aleu to catch fish, and the time they played in the mud… but most of all, he remembered the time she first kissed him. That memory, he knew, would never leave his heart.

            He knew that he would never forget Aleu, and how he was certain that she would be the one that he would spend the rest of his life with… the love of his life.

            The cave was only a few feet away now. He turned the corner to enter the cave. He remained slumped over his chest until he came to the entrance way. The first thing he saw when he looked up was his shadow, then, a beautiful wolf dog named Aleu, standing next to it.

            Aleu turned her head slowly when she saw Niju’s shadow on the cave wall. Her heart began to pump with nervousness as she saw him, standing in the entrance way, a puzzled yet slightly happy look on his face. She turned towards Niju and stepped forward.

Aleu: (in a soft voice) Hi, Niju.

Niju: Hello, Aleu…

Aleu: (laughing slightly) Well… this is all too familiar, isn’t it?

Niju: (stepping inside) Yeah… it is.

            There was a short moment of silence. They soon discovered that they couldn’t stand it. They had to talk to each other.

Aleu: Look, Niju. I-

            Niju began to talk at the same time, and stopped.

Niju: You go first.

Aleu: Alright… Niju, I know this must be so hard on you… it is on me as well.

            Aleu waited for Niju to talk. There was no response.

Aleu: Look, I know you feel bad about this, but we can work it out.

            Aleu waited for him to speak. There was still nothing.

Aleu: Niju, please. Talk to me.

Niju: All I have to say is that I’m sorry…

Aleu: Sorry for what?

Niju: Sorry that I let my feelings get in the way of the possibilities.

Aleu: The possibilities of what?

Niju: (in a louder tone) of this happening.

Aleu: Oh, so is that how you take your feelings? Just something that gets in the way?

Niju: No! That’s not what I meant.

            Niju just realized he had been yelling. The two of them calmed down for a moment.

Niju: Aleu, my feelings for you meant everything. They’ve always meant everything-

Aleu: And so have mine… It seemed like everything was going to be alright, then you just-you just run in unexpectedly.

Niju: I couldn’t help myself. I-

Aleu: Then Farris tries to fight you and you throw him across the clearing.

Niju: I didn’t mean to hurt him, I swear! I-I was only trying to-

Aleu: (in a soft tone) to protect me…?

            Niju looked at her in surprise. It’s like she took the words right out of his mouth.

Niju: …yeah.

            A tear formed under Aleu’s eye. It slowly trickled down her face. That tear tortured Niju. He wanted so badly to hold her in his arms and comfort her.

Aleu: …I know…and I hate myself for taking so long to realize it…

            Niju could barely understand. He didn’t know whether to think that they were still able to be together or not.

Aleu: (sniffling) I still love you…

            Aleu ran to Niju and held herself against him. As soon as she touched him, he wrapped his arms around him. She began to cry in his arms. Niju’s heart felt beyond touched. His throat grew heavy, and he wanted to cry with her.

Niju: (with a sigh) Aleu...

            The two lovers held each other tightly, and cried tears of happiness together. They were a part of one another. Neither of them had ever felt so whole in their lives.

Niju: …I love you so much.

            The two of them continued to hold each other, loving the familiar feeling of being in each other’s arms. They had missed each other so, even if it was for a little while. But the two of them felt like they were meant to be, so a little while away felt like forever. But now, they knew that they would never be separated again.

            Niju pulled away and looked Aleu in the eyes. He could see the tears shining in her eyes. He reached over and licked her cheeks clean of them. She looked up at him and smiled. Niju saw light from Heaven when he saw her smile, and whenever he just saw her, he saw an angel.

Niju: You’re the first person I’ve ever fallen in love with, Aleu… and I know I’ll never be happier with anyone else in my life… I’ll always love you… and I’ll always care for you…

Aleu: You’re so romantic, you know that?

Niju: (smiling) that wasn’t me…

            Aleu looked puzzled.

Niju: That’s just what your father told me to tell you. That’s why I had to get you, that’s why I had to find you… to tell you that he approved of us…

            Aleu was so glad to hear that Balto accepted them as lovers. She knew he always wanted her to be happy.

Niju: He said that it always tends to do the trick. Imagine what I can make up by myself.

            Aleu laughed, followed by Niju. They both laughed together as they held each other happily in their arms. Aleu caught Niju’s eye one last time, and got caught in them when he looked back into hers.

Niju: … Aleu, I could have never done this without you… your forgiveness, your friendship, and your love, is what made me go forward. It’s what gave me the confidence to know I could set things right. And I’ve learned a great many lessons. You’ve taught me that there are other things in life besides owning up to someone… that there are way too many opportunities to in the world to just give up…You’ve taught me that there are other things to fear than change… But most of all, you’ve taught me that without love… this change of heart would have never been possible…

            Aleu began to sniffle again. That was so beautiful. She thought.

Niju: That, my love, was all me…

Niju felt that he owed Aleu a favor. He had never actually given her that kiss. He kissed back before, but he had never leaned in for one.

            Niju leaned foreword and gave her the kiss he had always wanted to return.

Epilogue

     The sun was beginning to set. The bright colors of bright red, orange and yellow faded into the horizon. Spring was wafting through the air, and so was love.

            Niju and Aleu stood before the horizon on the beach in front of Nome, their paws in the water, drifting ever so gently back and forth. They faced each other and looked deeply into each other’s eyes as they recited the vows.

The wind was blowing through Aleu’s fur, and the sunset caught her eyes. She looked so beautiful, and Niju thought the same.

Doc stood before them, repeating their vows for them to recite.

Doc: Please repeat after me… I.

Niju: I.

Doc: Niju.

Niju: Niju.

Doc: Take you.

Niju: Take you.

Doc: Aleu.

Niju: Aleu.

Doc: To be my lawfully wedded wife.

Niju: To be my lawfully wedded wife.

Doc: My constant friend.

Niju: My constant friend.

Doc: My faithful partner.

Niju: My faithful partner.

Doc: And my love from this day forward.

Niju: And my love from this day forward.

Doc: In the presence of God.

Niju: In the presence of God.

Doc: Our family and friends.

Niju: Our family and friends.

Doc: I offer you my solemn vow.

Niju: I offer you my solemn vow, to be your faithful partner… in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, and in joy as well as sorrow.

            Doc did not try to stop Niju. If he already knew them, it was doing nothing but saving time, so he let him continue.

Niju: I promise to love you unconditionally, to support you in your goals, to honor and respect you, to laugh with you and cry with you, and to cherish you for as long as we both shall live.

            Doc smiled. How thoughtful of him. He thought. He turned towards Aleu.

Doc: Please repeat after me… I

Aleu: I, Aleu, take you to be my lawfully wedded husband, my partner in life and my one true love.

            Everyone in the crowd started to laugh. It looked like they didn’t really need Doc there to repeat the vows anyway. But they did need someone to marry them.

Aleu: I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before. I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together.

            Aleu paused. Her throat grew heavy, and she began to shed happy tears. Niju looked at her not in desire to take the tears away, but in love for feeling so happy.

Aleu: (sniffling) I give you my hand… my heart… and my love.

            Aleu held her paw out forward. Niju took it without question and continued to look deeply into her eyes.

Aleu: From this day forward… as long as we both shall live…

            Niju gave Aleu a reassuring smile for her incredible job for remembering the vows.

Doc: (smiling) I now pronounce you husband, and wife… you may kiss the bride…

            This was the greatest moment of Niju’s life. He felt like the luckiest wolf in the world. He never realized that he had been waiting for this moment for so long. But he was happy to admit, it was worth waiting for.

            Niju leaned in, and kissed his bride, ever so passionately, and Aleu did the same, taking her lover into her arms. The minute they touched, cheering erupted in the crowd. They continued even long after they stopped. Niju and Aleu pulled away gently. They stared at each other closely.

Niju: I love you.

Aleu: I love you too…

            They gave each other one last smile, and they began to walk together down the rows those who were there. Balto was there, Jenna was there, Kodi, all of her siblings, even Boris and Stella.

Boris: Yeah-ha! You go, kiddo!

            They both laughed at Boris, and continued to walk. The whole clan was there. Sarah, Nuk, Yak, Sumac, Nima, Kori. Everyone was there. Steven was even there, standing amongst the crowd to the side. Aleu looked over towards him. He gave her a friendly smile that said: That’s my girl. She smiled back at him and continued to walk. She was so glad that Steven was able to make it. She was sure he had to make an excuse to his parents. He knew that they wouldn’t be used to seeing a bunch of wolves having a wedding. Aleu saw Seph behind everyone else where no one could see him. He smiled at her and spoke in her mind. Good job, Aleu. He said. Thank you. She thought, hoping he would hear her back.

Niju: What is it, darling?

Aleu: Oh, it’s nothing.

            The wedded couple continued to walk down the rows, off towards the forest where their honeymoon awaited. Everything had worked out just as they both had wanted. Everyone was there, the weather was perfect, and they were in love…

            Niju’s task was complete, and so was his heart and soul. He now grew a new confidence: He could do anything, as long as his faithful partner was at his side. They both had promised that they would love, cherish, and support each other in every situation and as long as they both shall live, and then some. This big change, this incredible opportunity, would have never been possible for Niju if it weren’t for his change of heart.

Niju had come from hating, to loving the very thing that he was afraid of, for it was indeed change that made his world so magnificent, along side being in love…

The End…but only this story…

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