Chapter 1 Chapter 1 - Darren

I didn’t know why Alpha Logan had called me to report for duty. I know my brothers have been called upon to guard Beta John’s mate. As I arrived at the packhouse, I saw almost two dozen others had been called up as well. “You got called too, I see. Any idea what this is about?” Collin Kearney called out, waving a hand when he saw me. I get along well enough with him. His twin sister Sadria is mated to my youngest brother Azriel. When Gamma Charles sent him, his sister, and their friend Alison to watch my brothers and me, we became friends. We were under suspicion as traitors to the pack as the then future Luna Aurelia’s life was in danger. Given we had only recently returned from activity duty as Navy SEALs and pledged loyalty and that my identical twin Colby foolishly flirted with our future Luna, it was natural the Alpha would suspect us. Being spied on worked in my brothers’ favor as Sadira and Alison are their mates. So by default, that left Collin and me as the bachelors. Not that we still are. Collin found his mate among the females from the old Fire Wolf pack that joined ours last year. Now it’s just me as the odd man out. “Hey, man. No idea why we’re here.” I shrugged. “But I count two dozen of us.” I furrowed my brow as I did a headcount. “It must be something big to require this many warriors.” Collin nodded. Everyone went silent as we felt the strong auras of the Kinsley brothers. All eyes turned to the doors of the packhouse as the brothers stepped out. It was still a jarring sight to see them together. Most assume that John, the eldest brother, was the Alpha by their appearances. John is tall, broad shoulders, clean-cut, and always dressed in at least business casual style. He certainly had the air you except of an Alpha. In sharp contrast stood Logan. He’s nearly a foot shorter than his brother, his hair wild with a scruffy beard that completed the mountain man look his love of jeans and flannel created. He looks nothing like any Alpha I’ve ever seen. His enemies, including my former Alpha, underestimate him and quickly find that while short, he’s double the strength of your average Alpha. And he uses it to his advantage. “Good morning.” John greeted us. “Thank you for arriving quickly.” He nodded his head as his cobalt-azure blue eyes scanned over us. He must have been satisfied with what he saw as he bowed his head to his brother and stepped back to give Logan center stage. “As you know, a group of our pack has been traveling in search of mates. They have run into trouble in Sicily.” Logan’s gruff voice boomed loud enough for us to all hear. I can’t say I’m friends with anyone that left to find their mates, but my ex-girlfriend is among those who left. We ended our relationship two months ago, and it was amicable. We knew we weren’t mates but wanted some companionship. I wished her luck in her search and prayed to the Goddess Sheila would find a good and kind mate. I felt my heart stop and the air in my lungs freeze as I feared for Shelia’s safety. Murmurs started but quickly stopped as Logan held a hand up. “Our pack members are safe, for now in Incubi territory. Yes, that Incubi. I have spoken with their Alpha and offered aid to ensure my people remain safe.” Logan explained. I could see the questions in everyone around me’s eyes. But none dared to ask them. So I put my hand up. “Yes, Delaney?” Logan nodded to me. “What are the parameters? What trouble has befallen our pack members? How will we be assisting?” I questioned, making sure I was clear and concise with my words. “A war has sprung up in Sicily between the three packs. The new Alpha of Mandonie attacked Nebrodi, leaving them without an Alpha or Alpha Heir. Currently, only the Beta daughters have survived, and the son of the Delta is in a coma.” Logan explained. Holy shit! That’s insane. He massacred a pack hierarchy. “The eldest daughter of the Nebrodi Beta is the mate of the Incubi Alpha. This information is confidential as the Mandonie Alpha is unaware of why Incubi would protect the girls. You are all under Alpha command to speak of this to no one.” Logan continued. Well, that explained why Incubi was involved. “You have thirty minutes to be ready to go and be at their airstrip to fly out.” Logan dismissed us. I went to follow the others but stopped midstep. “Delaney, you come inside.” Logan’s command had me turning on my heel. “Yes, Alpha.” I bowed my head. I followed the Kinsley brothers inside and into Alpha Logan’s office. Neither man spoke till after we entered, and John locked the door.  Whatever is going on, it’s serious. “John.” Logan nodded, leaning on his desk folding his arms across his chest. Whatever reason they called me aside for, it deals with Beta John. I turned my attention to John, standing at attention the same as I had since basic training when I enlisted for the Navy. John didn’t speak, not initially. No, the elder Kinsley was eyeing me. Not like how a she-wolf would. No, he’s weighing and measuring me, assessing me with critical eyes. And it wasn’t just him. There was a ring of gold to his blue eyes, telling me his wolf was assessing me too. ‘Why are they looking at us like that?’ Cardinal questioned shift g uneasy in my mind. I can’t blame him. We don’t exactly spend much time around the ranked wolves of the pack or in Mount Hood proper either. And now we are locked in the Alpha’s office with the two most powerful males watching us. “Darren, you will have a separate assignment in Sicily.” John finally spoke. “Sir.” I nodded, waiting for more details. “As you know, your brothers are assigned to guard my mate. A job earned both for their skills learned in the SEALs and the unique gift your family possesses.” John continued. “Yes, sir. Our family is honored to have been chosen to guard our Beta female.” I nodded. “You will still be expected to offer what support Alpha Alec of Incubi requires. But that will be secondary. Your primary role is to guard my mate’s niece, Isis Adio.” John explained. Guard the Beta’s niece? How did she get mixed up in this? Why is a human in werewolf territory? “Permission to speak.” I requested. I had many questions, but I’m not the sort to ask without permission. “Granted.” John nodded. “Forgive me if this is out of line. But why is a human hunter in werewolf territory?” I inquired. John sighed, casting a look to his brother. If their eyes had glazed, I would think they were using the link. But being the eldest of triplets, I know close siblings can speak with just a look. “Isis is a hybrid. Her mother is Sakina, but her birth father was a werewolf. As a result, to keep her vile indiscretion from her husband, Sakina had Isis’s wolf bound as an infant.” John explained. If not for the subtle tick in his jaw and flex of his fingers, I wouldn’t guess he was angry. A hybrid!? With a bound wolf!? ‘That’s horrid! What kind of monster would do that to their child!?’ Cardinal growled. ‘A hunter.’ I shrugged. “I see. How did she end up in Incubi?” I questioned.  “Kurt Adler is her mate.” John sighed. “Oh. That certainly explains it.” I nodded. “If you have no further questions, go pack and get to the airfield.” Logan dismissed me. “Yes, Alpha.” I bowed to Logan. “I will protect your niece with my life, Beta John.” I turned to John before taking my leave. I barely had time to mind link my brothers to tell them I was shipping out and would try to keep in touch when possible while on assignment. They, of course, understood how it goes. I didn’t disclose any details about my work. Even if I wasn’t under Alpha’s command about Isis, the fact we spoke in a locked room told me it wasn’t a subject to discuss openly. “What did Alpha want?” Collin questioned as we sat next to each other on the plane. “Nothing of note.” I shrugged. “Checking if you would be okay since Sheila is there? Are you worried about her? Think things might heat up between you if she’s still unmated?” Collin arched a black brow at me. I rolled my eyes. “I’m worried for all our pack members. They have ended up in a war zone.” I stated, ignoring his question about what may happen if she’s still without a mate. He’s as bad as Azriel some days. “Mhm. And I heard during wars; passions can run high.” Collin waffles his eyebrows. “Sheila and I ended things. We both want to find our mates. Our wolves weren’t happy with our relationship anyways. And if Cardinal isn’t on board with a relationship, I can’t be either.” I sighed. ‘Damn right, my feelings matter. I haven’t given up on finding our mate. They are out there.’ Cardinal snorted. I sighed. I’m already twenty-five and have traveled the world and not found her. ‘You traveled in the military. We weren’t looking for our mate then. I have a good feeling about this mission. We will find them.’ Cardinal rolled his eyes. The subject of if I would get back together with Sheila was dropped. The rest of the flight people were sleeping, or some talked about what we may be facing when we arrive in Sicily. At least these wolves have seen battle, and I’m glad Alpha Logan didn’t send any young wolves who are wet behind the ears. Once we landed, we divided into four vehicles to drive from the airport to the Incubi pack. “Is it bad that I’m looking forward to this?” Clement questioned, leaning forward from his seat in the back. “Why are you looking forward to this?” I asked, glancing back in the rearview mirror at him. “I just like fighting.” Clement smirked, a gleam in his eyes. Great one of those guys. I met my share of them while I was in the military. Assholes that look for any chance to fight. The assholes who joined for the opportunity to be given a gun and kill people. I can’t stand people like that. “That’s great, but keep it in check. You don’t want to get out of line and piss off this Alpha. I’ve heard stories about him. He’s known as the Mad Alpha. Feared across all of Europe. So watch your step while we are in his territory.” I warned. Clement snorted but didn’t try to argue. While taking a turn, I slammed the breaks, a familiar wolf standing in the road. “What the fuck Delaney!?” Everyone in my vehicle shouted. I’m sure the three behind me weren’t thrilled at stopping so suddenly. “Adler is in the road.” I stated, climbing out of the driver’s seat. ‘Kurt? What’s going on?’ I questioned through pack-link. ‘There’s a fight going on not far from here. A clash between Incubi and Mandonie. They need backup.’ Kurt explained. I nodded, turning to the vehicles. ‘I want three people to stay in each vehicle and continue to the Incubi capital. Everyone else, undress and shift. We are going with Kurt to battle.’ I instructed, already starting to undress. I shifted to Cardinal. He shook his brown fur running his tongue across the white around his muzzle. ‘We’re close.’ Cardinal said an odd eagerness in his words. ‘To battle? Yes.’ I agreed, not sure what he meant. ‘No, to mate.’ Cardinal corrected, and without waiting for the others, even Kurt, he took off in a run following some internal compass. ‘What do you mean by mate?’ I questioned, but I got my answer as we reached the battle. People were fighting in wolf and human form on both sides. But it wasn’t the sight and smells of battle that caught my attention. The strong scent of sea salt and orchids filled my nose. ‘Mate.’ Cardinal and I both growled. She’s here! She’s on this battlefield! ‘We need to find them.’ Cardinal insisted. Suddenly a streak of blue lightning zoomed around the field, taking down enemies in wolf and human form, leaving them a shaking mess like they were just struck by lightning. ‘Mate! They are the source of the scent!’ Cardinal exclaimed as he watched the black wolf zooming around the field like lightning.

Chapter 2 Chapter 2 - André

Timing is everything. And Ignazio has shit timing. The little upstart is on my last nerve with this shit. My papa can’t even come out and just end this since Crista is in heat, and they are on lockdown at the villa. Not that I’m upset about that. I’m happy for papa. Finally, after too many long years, he has his mate. He deserves all this and more. And I can’t be mad that they completed their bond and thus sent her into heat while we are at war. Between me, my uncle, and the other pack leaders, we can handle things. I’ll make my papa proud while he’s busy giving me a little brother or sister. Hey maybe he’ll give me both. I don’t care which. I just want to be a big brother. I already know my papa makes good-looking babies. I mean, I own a mirror. And Crista is a true beauty inside and out, so any siblings they give me will be the cutest on the planet. And I look forward to spoiling them. Duilio sighed. I’m completely gone off the topic at hand. ‘Do try to focus, André.’ My wolf and I have a great relationship. He’s good at reminding me when I’m off subject and reeling me in. I can’t imagine how bad I would be without him to keep me in check. But oh, the fun I’d have if he didn’t. ‘André! FOCUS!’ Duilio snarled. Okay okay. Focusing. So Ignazio, the little shit stain, has been sending troops to try and poke at our borders for the last two days. Last night they interrupted dinner with the fam by crossing over near the coven’s village. Papa was not happy about that. I rather doubt his concern was that the coven least of all the Crone would be hurt.  Yep, Crone with a capital C, I like to say it’s for Cunt while Katrina is less crass and says it’s for Cranky. We are allowed to mock that old woman. She is our maternal great-grandmother. She’s not exactly our biggest fan. I mean, I’m a werewolf and gay as a maypole. Then Katrina didn’t get a wolf, sad face, or magic, sad face again. But if she can’t see how we are perfect exactly as we are, screw her. She was against our mom hooking up with papa. And I can sort of understand it, but screw her. If they hadn’t gotten together, we wouldn’t be here. ‘André!’ Duilio shouted in a huff. Right right. Focus. So we were able to squish the Mandonie insurgents by the coven. Was really easy because when we got there, the wolves were all tied up. I mean that literally. They were hog-tied in wolf form, complete with muzzles. It was hilarious. So now our cells are playing host to a dozen Manonie warriors. Zio Damon, along with my papa’s Gamma and Delta, and myself have taken turns questioning them. They haven’t cracked… yet. But if they don’t crack before Crista’s heat ends, they will when my papa gets his hands on them. ‘We’re nearly there. Focus.’ Duilio reminded me as we bounded through the forest. Oh, he’s right. I can smell the Mandonie shitheads. It’s probably unfair of me to call them all shitheads just because of Ignazio but whatever. I’m going to show them why you don’t war with Incubi. A number of our warriors were behind me and some of the Bloodmoon who came here while traveling for the gatherings. I sent Kurt ahead to try and intersect with the two dozen warriors his Alpha sent us. They landed just before this attack happened. Not sure if that correlates. I doubt it. Ignazio has no idea that the Bloodmoon pack would be helping us. I don’t know if they’ll get here in time to help, but we can handle them if they don’t. I grinned as we reached where our patrol unit was holding back the Mandonie. They were outnumbered by a landslide. Six of our patrol wolves were circled up, protecting each other’s back as over a dozen Mandonie wolves tried to kill them. Some of them looked worse for the ware. I frowned as I noticed Piero’s wolf Nevio limping, his front right leg bleeding as he tried to keep weight off it. Aw, my poor Piero. I’ll have to play nurse while his leg heals. ‘André! Perhaps save his hide now. Then think of ways to play nurse to your lover later.’ Duilio rolled his eyes. ‘Leave at least a couple alive. The rest kill. As soon as we clear the way, I want the patrol unit sent back to the hospital.’ I commanded through the pack link as I led the charge. I felt Duilio’s power surging through me. ‘Ready to make some crispy wolves?’ I asked as I charged up. ‘Always. Let’s fry these mutts.’ Duilio’s yellow eyes gleamed. The blue streaks down my body glowed as his power grew. I was circling our patrol unit in a blink, a blur of lightning. My power never once touched my pack; instead, it discharged out, forcing the Mandonie wolves back. The howls of the Mandonie wolves being electrocuted filled the air. It was music to my twisted ears. They deserve all this and more for following that boy and daring to step paw into my territory. Let alone with the intent to take my new stepmother, my Luna. The rest of my warriors surged forward into the fray. Knowing that the patrol unit was safe, I set my sights on the rest of the Mandonie attackers. I felt a slight tug at my tail and looked back to see Nevio. ‘We can still fight with you.’ Piero linked. I shook my head. ‘Get your unit out of here. You all need medical attention. My cousin and Zio are waiting.’ I commanded, flicking my tail out of his jaw as I moved like lightning across the battlefield. I was trying to be mindful to not kill all of them. As I said, it’s not their fault, per se, that they have a dumbass for an Alpha. I actually felt bad for the ones I killed. These wolves suck. They aren’t very well trained. We were making quick work of them when the most intoxicating scent carried across the breeze to me. Smoke and wood into a warm union of clove, amber, sandalwood, and pine blended together, making my senses haywire. ‘MATE!’ I screamed as I realized the only reason I could be smelling such a unique and exquisitely rugged scent here in the forest of Sicily. My head went on a swivel, trying to find the source. I noticed a grouping of unfamiliar wolves arriving. For a moment, I wondered who they were with till I saw Kurt rushing forward. The Bloodmoon wolves have arrived. This fight would end even faster if they lived up to the hype. So my mate is a Bloodmoon warrior. Interesting. ‘ANDRÉ! FOCUS! Fight now! Mate later!’ Duilio shouted as he just narrowly managed to dodge and attack. Okay, so he’s right; I should focus. Can’t find my mate if I’m dead. Fight now. Mate later. I can do this. I’ve waited this long to find him. Heck didn’t even expect to have a mate. I can wait a few more minutes. With the arrival of the Bloodmoon warriors, we made quick work of the Mandonie wolves. When the last Mandonie wolf collapsed to the ground, Duilio and I came to a stop. I could still feel the electrifying rush of Duilio’s ability flowing through me. Shaking out my fur, sparks of electricity fizzled out into the air. Looking over the battlefield, I did a headcount to ensure all my pack was accounted for and safe. I counted five dead Mandonie; the rest were incapacitated. Minor injuries but nothing all that bad. I almost felt bad for these people. They weren’t powerful. Is Ignazio messing with us? Or is he just that sick that he sends his weakest as shields to test our strength? Doesn’t matter. As soon as my papa can leave Crista’s side, we will switch to offensive and hunt Ignazio down. His head will soon be ready for mounting. Speaking of mounting. Where did the source of that heavenly scent go? Sniffing at the air, Duilio locked in on the scent and started following it. The scent brought us to stop a few feet from a dark brown wolf with white along his muzzle and a little tuft of white like dimples on his cheeks. ‘He’s a handsome one. Certainly not scrawny.’ Duilio hummed in appreciation as he eyed our mate from a distance. I smirked. He’s usually rather indifferent about wolves. He hasn’t cared that I sleep around, but that doesn’t mean he’s shown interest in my lovers or their wolves. ‘Oh, look at you getting all hot and bothered over a wolf. You don’t even give my lovers’ wolves the time of day.’ I teased. Duilio rolled his eyes at me. ‘They weren’t mine. That one is.’ Duilio’s tone was darker, husky. Oh yes, someone is all about this. Good, because so am I. I want to meet the flesh behind that wolf. Nimbley, I moved closer to my mate. I know we can’t communicate like this, but I can flirt in any form. A flick of my tail across his snout got my point across. I gave a nod of my head, telling him and I suppose the rest of the Bloodmoon wolves to follow me. ‘Let’s see if he can keep up.’ I smirked as Duilio was on the same page. Rushing forward like a bolt of lightning streaking across the sky, we ran. I could hear the pounding of paws, so I knew people were following me. The wind carried my mate’s scent, so I knew he was too. ‘Burn the dead. Bring the living to the cells. Anyone injured on either side will receive medical treatment.’ I sent the command through the pack link as I came to a stop at the edge of the city. I waited for the others to catch up, smirking as I smelled my mate was the first to arrive. He can keep up. Good. Let’s see if he can keep up in other ways. With that thought, I let my bones crack as I shifted from Duilio to my naked human self. I have no shame in my game. I know I’m hot. Stretching my arms out above my head. Running my fingers through my black and blue hair, I glanced over at my mate. He’d shifted too, and I am not disappointed at what I’m seeing. Thick dark brown hair just long enough for a good tug, masculine solid facial features, a bit of brown scruff only adding to that vibe, thick corded muscular arms, a defined six-pack that I look forward to licking, then that yummy v leading to what I’m most excited to see. ‘Well damn.’ Duilio voiced my thoughts as my eyes reached my mate’s cock. Oh, happy day, the things I can do with a cock that size. My eyes slowly trailed back up his body to his face. I furrowed my brow at the expression etched into that handsome face. Why is he looking at me like that? I’m his mate. Why is he looking at me so confused and… and… I know that look. That disgust in those Caribbean blue eyes. I’ve seen it more than I care to count when people look at me. Sometimes because I’m a hybrid, but more often because I’m gay. My mate doesn’t like me. He doesn’t want me. What. The. Fuck!? I tucked away my pain and pulled Duilio back as he started to growl. ‘We should go to him. A simple touch and the mate bond will make it clear to him.’ Duilio tried to protest. I shook my head at him and turned my back to my mate as I dug clothes out of the crate under a tree. ‘Leave it. We have more important things than him to worry about.’ I tried to rationalize. To not let my heartbreak at the rejection I saw in his eyes. I will not let my mate break me. I am André Marcus D’Amore. I am the Alpha Heir of the Incubi Pack. I am the son of the great Alpha Alec. If papa could survive everything he’s been through, I can survive my mate not wanting me. “André!” Kurt Adler called out to me, but I ignored him. “I need to report in with my Alpha and Beta.” I answered dismissively, walking away with my head held high. I will not cry. I will not cry. I will not look back. I will not look back. I kept repeating these words like a mantra. I know if I look back, I’ll break. If I look back and he still has that look in those eyes I wanted to drown in… I’ll break. I can’t break, least of all in front of my pack or him. I won’t let my mate know he hurt me.

Chapter 3 Chapter 3 - Darren

It’s been a while since I’ve gotten to really be in battle. Sure I train every day when I’m not helping my dad at the garage. But training is always different from an actual battle. The way that flash of blue lightning zoomed around the battlefield almost made our arrival unnecessary. “Because our mate is outstanding.’ Cardinal commented in awe as we watched our mate take down another Mandonie wolf. I’ve never seen a wolf with such a gift. A wolf that moves with more agility and speed than even Luna Aurelia it’s breathtaking to witness. Soon the last of the Mandonie was taken down, and our mate came to a stop. Ebony fur with streaks of blue on her flanks. I’m not sure what that means, but it’s certainly unique. ‘Our mate is a hybrid. Like the girl we were sent to protect.’ Cardinal informed me. Well, that certainly cleared that up. My mate is a hybrid. That will make things interesting. I can’t wait to meet her. Would it be rude to ask what kind of hybrid she is? ‘Yeah. It would be rude to ask them. Let them start that conversation.’ Cardinal rolled his eyes at me. I rolled my eyes, focusing on the fight. There weren’t many left for us to handle. And honestly, I have to say if this is the fighting force of the Mandonie pack, I’m confused on why we were sent other than to extract Isis Adio. And if the extraction of Isis was the only goal, they didn’t need to send more than me. ‘You’re not wrong. Though finding our mate obviously changed some things.’ Cardinal agreed. He knows that while my family’s skills are now being used to guard without being invasive, our skills are better suited and had been used for espionage and assassinations under our old Alpha. I could have gotten into this territory and gotten Isis out without detection. I blinked as my mate sauntered across the battlefield with the last of the Mandonie taken down. Every step was intentional and flawless. She knows I’m watching her. As she got closer, I noticed her wolf was more prominent than even some males. More on par with Luna Aurelia’s wolf. Is our mate of Alpha blood? I didn’t ponder much on any of this. That sea salt and orchid scent were overpowering my senses. All rational thoughts went out the window as my mate flicked her tail across my snout before taking off in a run. ‘Follow our mate.’ Cardinal insisted, propelling us forward at full speed, trying to keep up. Maybe if I’d been thinking rationally, if the scent of my mate hadn’t turned my brain to mush, what happened next wouldn’t have gone so very wrong. My mate had come to a stop at the tree line near the city. I watched, eager to glimpse my mate in the flesh. My heart was beating so quickly, and it wasn’t from how fast I’d been running. The anticipation of seeing my mate was killing me. When she shifted, I did as well. As I raised my head to look, I was floored. That… that’s not a woman standing in front of me. That’s a man. Objectively he’s a handsome man. Flawless almond skin, rich curly black hair kept short on the sides, an electric blue mohawk, and a rectangular face with deep sapphire blue eyes. His sapphire eyes looked at me like he was starving, and I was his next meal. ‘Yes, please! Sign me up!’ Cardinal cheered as this man looked at my naked body in a way even my former lovers haven’t. I couldn’t even articulate to my wolf why what he just said was only adding to my state of confusion. How can my mate be a man? I’m straight. I’m attracted to women. I’ve dated women. I’ve kissed women. I’ve had sex with women. I have not ever been attracted to a man. People like to joke about the Navy because the lowest ranks are Seaman. But I’ve never felt any inclination towards men. The Goddess got this wrong. Was she drunk? There’s no way that this makes sense. I have nothing against anyone who is LGBTQ+. Love who you want to love. I support the right for everyone to live and love as they see fit. But I’ve always known that I was not part of the community while I am an ally. ‘What did you do!?’ Cardinal screamed in my head. I blinked, not sure what his problem was. ‘He’s leaving! You offended him! Goddess, damn you, Darren. You just gave him the impression we don’t want him!’ Cardinal was pacing as he growled at me. ‘But I don’t. I’m not gay. I’m straight. I don’t want a mate who’s a man.’ I countered. ‘You don’t get a choice.’ Cardinal snarled at me. ‘And have you considered that I do? That I want him? He’s my mate too damn it!’ Cardinal growled. ‘Are you honestly telling me you like males?’ I questioned. I didn’t believe that. It wouldn’t make sense that my wolf would have a completely different sexuality than me. Either way, I don’t want a man for a mate. ‘I don’t know. But I know I want that one, and you are screwing this up. I don’t care what your sexuality is or isn’t. All I know is the Goddess doesn’t make mistakes. And like I said, you don’t get a choice. He’s our mate. End of story now we need to follow him.’ Cardinal snorted. “Darren, you good?” Kurt asked, shoving shorts into my chest. “Yeah. Sorry. Jet lag.” I shook my head as I got dressed. “Okay. Well, come on. We should head to the town hall. It’s where we are all staying. And then I’ll introduce you to the Alpha heir and Beta.” Kurt waved for me to follow him. ‘We will discuss this later. And who says I don’t get a choice in who I’m with?’ I frowned as I followed Kurt. “I also need to meet Isis.” I stated. Kurt frowned and looked at me. “Why are you eager to meet my mate?” His eyes narrowed at me with the insecurity a male is prone to have when they haven’t mated and marked their mate. ‘Alpha Logan says. Or did you forget the Bloodmoon laws about mates and the precise reasons for rejecting one?’ Cardinal smirked, knowing he had me now. I cursed in my head. He’s right. My old pack didn’t have such laws about rejection. But if there is one thing Bloodmoon takes seriously, it is the mate bond and will of the Goddess. By law, the only way I could reject this male would be if I had proof he would be an abusive mate. And right now, I don’t have any evidence of that. ‘No, the only ‘abuse’ I was picking up was how hard he would suck our dick and fuck our ass. And I don’t think that counts as abuse. I’m all for that kind of abuse.’ Cardinal smiled. He unhelpfully put the image of how the male looked at my cock in my mind, followed by a fantasy of his full lips wrapped around my cock. ‘Knock it off.’ I growled at Cardinal. ‘Why? Because it turns you on, and that unsettles your false sense of sexuality?’ Cardinal scoffed. ‘It did not.’ I protested. ‘Right cause your dick didn’t twitch at the fantasy.’ Cardinal laughed. “Darren? You really are jet-lagged. You’re spacing out. What business do you have with my mate?” Kurt snapped his fingers in my face, getting me out of my own head. “Sorry. You have nothing to worry about. I have no interest in your mate. I was sent by Alpha Logan, and more so Beta John to be her bodyguard.” I reassured Kurt. The younger male relaxed that my interest was only because it was an order. “Oh, okay. Well, you’ll have to wait till André brings her from the Alpha’s villa. Any time there is an attack, she is taken there to be kept safe with the Alpha’s human hybrid daughter and the Luna’s unshifted sisters.” Kurt explained. I nodded. That made sense. “Who’s André, and why can’t we just get her?” I wondered why we needed the middle man. “And why would I be meeting the Alpha heir rather than the Alpha. Did something happen to their Alpha?” I questioned. “The Luna is in heat.” Kurt answered as he pushed open the doors to what I assume is their town hall. I guess this is their version of a packhouse. Oddly, the Alpha doesn’t live in the packhouse. But I guess it allows the Alpha family privacy. “Oh well, that does make sense. So why is André allowed at the villa?” I asked, following Kurt to where the rest of our pack were staying on the first floor. It was a good setup. I nodded to a number of our pack who were already here. “Oh simple, he’s the Alpha’s son. You saw him back at the battle and a few minutes ago. He’s the one that took down almost all the Mandonie on his own.” Kurt explained. I blinked. I don’t know why I’m surprised. That kind of power, the size of his wolf, all screamed Alpha blood. ‘So did the size of his dick. Our mate is an Alpha.’ Cardinal beamed with pride. I was more worried that I’d just pissed off not just my mate but the Incubi Alpha heir. I know how protective Alpha Logan is of his daughter Hana and she’s not even biologically his. I can only imagine how the Incubi Alpha would take someone, let alone his son’s mate upsetting him. Cardinal was laughing. ‘You fucked up. Better fix it. Quickly. Because it’s not just the Incubi Alpha, you need to worry about. If your actions make our mate reject us, I hope you can survive and enjoy a life being wolfless.’ Cardinal snorted. “Well, that at least makes sense.” I nodded. “Here’s your room. I’ll let you know when André gets here with Isis and Beta Damon.” Kurt pointed into a room. I nodded, going into the room and slumping onto the bed. ‘What do you mean?’ I questioned. This is the first time since I shifted that Cardinal and I weren’t on the same page. We’ve always agreed on things. I really don’t need all this drama, especially with my wolf. ‘I mean that if André rejects us, which I don’t know the laws here, but he might be allowed to, I’m going to go curl up in the corner and die. It might not be instant, but I’m going to just lay there till I do. I don’t want a life without my mate.’ Cardinal was firm in his stance on this. I groaned and ran my hands over my face. Fuck. What the hell am I supposed to do? I’m straight. I can’t just magically become gay. That’s not how sexuality works. It’s not a choice, or at least I never thought of it as one. ‘Maybe not, but it’s also something that’s discovered with time.’ Cardinal left me with those words before going silent on me.

Chapter 4 Chapter 4 - André

I don’t even know how to begin processing this. I was elated when I smelled my mate on that battlefield. Even more when I realized he wasn’t from Mandonie. I hadn’t felt this type of happiness in my life. And I thought I was over the moon when papa found Crista. Finding my mate eclipsed it all. Or at least it did until that look on his face. I’ve been given that look plenty of times in my life. It’s what happens when you come out as gay while in kindergarten. Other kids were struggling with tying their shoes and learning the alphabet while I was dealing with the judgment of even adults for the way I am. The last person I thought I’d ever had to be judged by was my mate. Yet here I am. Being judged by the person who should love me. I will not let my mate break me. And I will not let anyone realize I’m hurting. I clenched my fists as I headed for papa’s car in the town hall parking lot. “André!?” Crap, someone who can see right through me just called my name. I take a breath and force a smile on my lips as I turn to greet my cousin and future Beta, Alexander. “Ciao, cugino. You missed all the fun. How are the wounded? Is Piero going to be okay?” I peppered my cousin with questions, being sure to keep my usual upbeat tone. If I can fool him, I’ll be safe to drive home where I’ll have to fool papa and, worse, Katrina. Alexander sighed, shaking his head, running a hand over his blonde hair. He’s really far too handsome for his own good. He’s accepted my sexuality since he was old enough to understand what it meant. Too bad he couldn’t be my mate. I mean, it’s not like we are actually cousins. There are no blood ties between us. And it would be so much easier. Tragically he’s not my mate and as straight as they come. ‘We don’t need anyone else. We have a mate. We don’t know his name, but we have him. He will come around. Crista came around for your father and Chesed.’ Duilio encouraged. ‘You’re right. I am my papa’s son. And if he could get someone as stubborn as Crista to succumb to his charms, I can certainly get my mate to do the same.’ I nodded in agreement. “Only you and Zio Chesed would call a war fun. The wounded will all recover. Piero will have to keep his arm in a sling for a couple of days while he heals. He had wolfsbane in his system, so it’s slowing the process.” Alexander sighed. I could see the tiny spark of judgment. Alexander knows I’ve been screwing around with Piero for a while now. He’s never called me out on sleeping around. He knows I wasn’t going to hold my breath for a mate. The pot shouldn’t call the kettle black. My cousin is far from innocent. I know a few she-wolves that have stumbled out of his bed. Always to the disgust of his mother, who doesn’t like him sleeping around. We won’t tell her that Zoe isn’t a virgin either. That’d go about as smoothly as telling papa Katrina isn’t. Though I keep a mental list of every male Katrina’s slept with. So if they ever piss me off, I tell papa they slept with her and watch the chaos. Okay, I’m a twisted person. But well, I am the son of the infamous Alpha Alec. “Hmm. I will have to stop by and check on Piero.” I winked. Alexander simply rolled his eyes at me. Duilio growled in my head. ‘Like hell we are. I turned a blind eye to you screwing around before, but I will take control from you and not give it back if you think for even a moment we are touching another.’ ‘I’m not actually going to. I mean, I might check on Piero, but I wouldn’t do anything with him.’ I insisted. Duilio huffed and curled up in a corner, wrapping his tail over his snout yellow eyes watching me. ‘I’m serious. I wouldn’t do that. At least not without a formal rejection from our mate.’ I assured “Heading to the villa?” Alexander nodded to the car. “Yes. We managed to very easily stop this attack. So I want to go bring Isis back for her mate. He will be happy to see her. I also need to let papa know the Bloodmoon wolves have arrived.” I nodded. “Well, he already knows. Four trucks arrived with some of them. Mamma and Zoe got them set up in rooms at the town hall. One of them will be fine in the morning.” Alexander shrugged. I arched an eyebrow, then burst out laughing. “Oh, tell me. Come on. You don’t get to tease me with good gossip and not deliver.” I shoved him. Alexander laughed, rubbing his arm before sighing. “I don’t know which wolf it was. I just know one of them was ballsy. He slapped Zoe on the ass and thanked her for showing him to his room.” Alexander was laughing so hard he was leaning his head on my shoulder. I was cracking up too because I can just imagine the look on my cousin’s face as she turned the handsy American into a statue. My laughter faded as the enticing smell of my mate filled my nose. Duilio raised his head, taking interest that our mate was near. Looking over Alexander’s shoulder, I spotted him. He walked with Kurt and another handsome male with thick black hair and blue eyes. His distance from Kurt was respectful, probably acquaintances at best. But they were standing very close with the other man’s arm across his shoulders with the other male. My heart started to beat faster with the annoyance of someone touching my mate so familiarly. Only when the male turned his head to Kurt did I relax. There very proudly displayed on his neck was a mate mark. The male is mated and therefore not a threat. Not some lover, my mate, came here with. I froze as my mate’s head turned and his Caribbean eyes locked on mine. I felt a chill run through me as his eyes narrowed, looking away from me to Alexander, who was still laughing leaning on me. ‘Get him off us! We don’t want our mate thinking your Beta is more.’ Duilio shouted. It was too late. I saw the way his nostrils flared before he turned his head away and went inside with Kurt and the other Bloodmoon wolves. FUCK! Come on! Can’t I get a break? What did I do to anger you, Goddess? Is this somehow your punishment for sleeping around? I groaned and playfully shoved my cousin off me. “Priceless. Get a pic for me. I want to show Katrina. I’d say I would show papa, but he might kill the boy.” I grinned. “Yeah, I should. I want to keep that for blackmail later. In case the shithead needs a reminder to not fuck with a Petridis.” Alexander smiled. “Go get Isis. Tell Zio Alec and Zia Crista hello for me. I’ll make sure the Bloodmoon wolves are settling in and not pissing my sister off.” Alexander waved as he headed inside. I sighed, slipping into the car driving home. Should I take it as a good sign? I mean, he was jealous. Granted, unjustifiably since Alexander is my cousin. But jealousy can be a good sign. If he’s jealous, it means, on some level, he wants me. I can work with that. “I’M HOME!” I called out, cupping my hands around my mouth. Did I need to announce my arrival to the whole villa? Probably not. But if I didn’t, then I just wouldn’t be me. And I have to act like nothing’s wrong. Crista and papa poked their heads out of the study. While my sister and the girls wandered out of the media room. Once again, this attack wasn’t close enough to require everyone to use the shelter in the basement. I glanced at my father and his mate. To the untrained eye, everything looked normal. But I smirked as I saw his fly still unzipped and that her dress wasn’t entirely laying right in the back. ‘Papa, your fly’s unzipped, and you should fix Crista’s dress. It’s pretty obvious you took her from behind.’ I winked at them as I sent the link message. Papa rolled his eyes but discreetly zipped his fly, followed by a tug at Crista’s dress to cover her adequately. I snickered as she blushed, realizing how close she was to more than just me noticing her dress was out of sorts. They are too adorable for words. And so damn horny, but Crista’s in heat, so there’s that. Round of applause to my papa for getting laid multiple times a day at his age. Don’t tell him I said that, though. Pretty sure Chesed would come out and kick my ass. “So you’re back. What happened? I already heard the Bloodmoon warriors arrived.” Papa questioned, folding his arms as everyone had now circled up in the foyer. I grinned, now the center of attention. I do love being the center of attention. I began talking with my hands almost as much as my mouth. “Yes, they did. Not that their help was all that necessary with pushing back this attack. Icky Iggy is either dumb, has untrained warriors, or fucking with us. Because these wolves were as easy to rip through as a tissue.”“Well, I can attest to the fact Mandonie has strong warriors. No weaklings could have massacred our pack.” Persephone snorted, glancing up from her phone. I’m not sure what she’s doing on it. But if she’s playing a game while I’m regaling everyone with my tale, I’ll be pissed. “He’s being strategic. He sent his Gamma and a unit of strong wolves to attack the coven. Now he’s sending weaker wolves to throw at us. He’s hoping to weaken our warriors, tire them out before he sends his stronger warriors.” Papa mused. I smiled because, of course, my papa would see through such tactics. “That makes the most sense. This was the third wave since I left the villa this morning. He’s prodding at the different points of our territory.” I nodded in agreement. “He’s got encampments being built ten miles outside your territory along the border.” Persephone stated. The middle Fayte is a curveball of a girl, so you never know what she’s going to do or say. Everyone’s attention went to her. “What? I’m tracking using satellite images. Icky Iggy can use witches and old-timey shit all he likes but a heat signature is a heat signature.” The blonde spitfire looked up from her phone and blinked those green eyes. “A satellite? How do you have access to a satellite?” Papa questioned, folding his arms with that stern papa look in his eyes. “Persephone Adelaide Fayte, did you hack the government again?” Crista demanded, all saucy, putting her hands on her hips. Persephone merely shrugged, and I broke out laughing. “Oh… Oh, I do love you Fayte females. Never a dull moment. Persy, can you send that…” I pointed at her phone. “To my laptop back at town hall? I’m sure Zio Damon and I could make good use of that.” I questioned. “Yeah, sure.” Persephone shrugged, going back to her phone, her fingers moving nimbly. “I did one better. Check your phone. You can then connect your phone to whatever computer you want to access it.” She smirked, pocketing her phone. “You’re terrifying. But okay, so that’s the status of things. And since things look all clear and Kurt is an adorably miserable wreck without his Isis to snuggle. Let’s go, girlie.” I waved for Isis to come with me. The sweet girl blushed as I called her out for snuggling her mate. The fact Kurt and Isis aren’t doing more than making out is a testament to their control. If my mate hadn’t looked at me the way he did back there, I’d have been fucking him against the nearest tree. But I often lack impulse control. “I’ll keep you updated, papa.” I gave a mock salute before guiding Isis to the car. “Did anyone get hurt today?” Isis shyly questioned. “A few but nothing life-threatening. And no one from your mate’s pack was hurt.” I assured her with a bright smile. I don’t want her to worry about her mate. She seems the sensitive and sweet sort. A lot like little miss Delilah. “That’s good. I hope this war can get settled quickly.” Isis sighed. “I mean, I’m grateful for the hospitality and that Persephone was able to ensure even my family couldn’t track me.” She quickly tried to reassure me. I chuckled. “It’s alright, sweetie. I get it. You want to get to your mate’s pack. I heard your aunt is there, and she has a way to help your wolf. Which is wonderful news. And I hope for all our sakes we end this war quickly.” I assured her as I parked.

Chapter 5 Chapter 5 - Darren

I hadn’t even gotten to lay in my temporary bed for long before I felt restless. I ended up slipping out a side door wandering around a little bit. I like to familiarize myself with a new area anyways. Might as well do it now. I certainly won’t be getting any sleep soon. I sighed, leaning my head back, closing my eyes, trying to clear my mind. It wasn’t working. The moment my eyes closed, all I saw was André. He stood there naked and very proud of it as he ran his fingers through his hair and glanced back at me. The way he looked at me like he was committing every tiny detail to memory. The strange way that it made me feel. It wasn’t a feeling of disgust, but I can’t place what it was. I’d never felt it before. I suppose I could best describe it as if someone released a swarm of butterflies in my stomach. ‘It’s called the mate bond, dumbass. You felt it and ignored it, you old frogmen.’  Cardinal snorted, using the nickname for SEALs in the form of insult. I rolled my eyes and ignored him. I shook my head, trying to rid myself of the vision of André. I don’t want to remember the look on his face as he turned his back to me and walked away. It was only a second, but I saw something broken in those sapphire blue eyes. ‘Because you broke his heart, asshole. I told you we should have followed him. Now it won’t just be a matter of apologizing and explaining the misunderstanding to get in his good graces. I hope you have knee pads.’ Cardinal shook his head. ‘Knee pads? What the fuck?’ I wrinkled my nose. Oh, hell no. Nope. Never. I don’t think I could do that. That Meatloaf song suddenly comes to mind. ‘Get your mind out of the gutter! Though it would probably be an excellent way to get our mate in a good mood. I meant for all the begging you’re going to need to do.’ Cardinal rolled his eyes. ‘And you shouldn’t say never. André’s our mate, and eventually, you’re going to do things to pleasure him. You weren’t a one-sided pleasure guy before. If you were willing to go down on females, we weren’t mates with you damn well will for our mate.’ Cardinal snorted. Before I could comment, I heard someone calling for me. Furrowing my brow, I looked around the mostly empty town square I stood in. I saw a few Incubi pack members walking around. A couple of females were looking at me with interest. Obviously not who was calling my name. Then I turned and spotted Kurt and Collin rushing over to me. I sighed because this couldn’t be good news. “There you are. I checked your room, but you’d left. We have a situation.” Kurt waved for me to come over. I cracked my neck and headed their way. We haven’t even been in Italy that long, and there was already a situation. Just great. “It’s fucking hilarious.” Collin smirked, putting an arm around my shoulder as the pair guided me back to the town hall. “Can someone just tell me what’s going on?” I questioned. However, my thoughts completely derailed as we came around the corner and I saw André in the parking lot. Some blonde male was leaning against him as they laughed about something. White-hot anger filled my stomach as I saw how familiar this male was with my mate. I clenched my jaw, nostrils flaring as I looked from André to the blonde. He made no move to put distance between them. And I suddenly had a strong urge to rip the blonde’s head off. ‘He needs to get his hands off our mate. Who does he think he is to be so familiar with our mate?’ Cardinal growled. I took a breath. I am not the Delaney who acts irrationally. I am the rational one. I’m the one that thinks things through. I leave the spontaneous and usually bad ideas to Azriel and to some degree Colby. I turned my head from André and the blonde as I went inside with Kurt and Collin. ‘What are we doing? Get your ass out there. That’s our mate! Stake our claim!’ Cardinal insisted. I shook my head at him. ‘It’s not that simple. We don’t know him. We don’t know that male either. We can’t just go assuming anything. And if that male has been his lover, what can we really say? I’ve had lovers.’ I rationalized. ‘Had is the keyword. If Sheila tried to lean on you now, you better shove that bitch off.’ Cardinal growled. He wanted me to turn around and yank the blonde away from André. I can’t, and I won’t. This is André’s pack. For all I know that male could be family. It would be like if André had rushed over because Collin had his arm over my shoulders. He’d look foolish for being jealous of not only my friend but my brother-in-law and a full-mated male. I will not make a fool of myself just to placate my wolf’s jealousy. “Well, there’s an issue with Clement.” Kurt sighed. I groaned because somehow, I had a gut feeling Clement Shelton would be a pain in my ass on this mission. The moment his dumb mouth opened to say he was excited to fight for the sake of fighting. “What did he do? And where is he?” I questioned. Collin was wearing that megawatt shit-eating grin. The one I’ve learned in the last two years means big trouble. Kurt was also smirking now, no longer holding a straight face. I internalized my eye roll at the fact this kid was supposed to be an Alpha, well, if he ever stepped up and took the reins. I would almost feel pity for the Syndicate wolves having to follow him. Almost being the keyword. Fuck those rogue pricks. “Well, that’s the thing.” Kurt smiled and gestured to a statue blocking the hallway. I frowned and looked at the statue. It looked eerily like Clement. Like an exact replica of the young wolf. Every detail was spot on. “Someone explain why there is a statue of Clement in this hallway?” I demanded, using the same tone I did in the SEALs when giving orders. Of course, the tone didn’t phase Kurt, but Collin’s back went a little straighter. I eyed both of them, waiting for any answer, when an angelic voice sounded out. “Who wants to know?” A blonde she-wolf questioned, stepping around the Clement statue placing her hands on her hips. She looks familiar, but I can’t place it at the moment. I just know she’s not Bloodmoon. Her eyes slowly looked me over, weighing and measuring me in a simple look. “Darren Delaney, Miss. I’m the captain in charge of the warriors from Bloodmoon.” I introduced myself, offering my hand. She arched an eyebrow giving me another look of appraisal before shaking my hand. “Zoe Petridis, daughter of Beta Damon.” Zoe introduced herself. Great, the Beta’s daughter. At least explains why she has the aura of authority. I nodded my head, giving her a firm handshake before letting go. “Nice to meet you, Miss Petridis. Are you able to explain this situation?” I asked, folding my arms. “Only if you call me Zoe.” Zoe smiled, batting long thick lashes at me. ‘Is she your mate? Or just another she-wolf falling for your muscular arms?’ Collin teased through the link. I rolled my eyes and ignored him. I could feel Cardinal getting angrier by the second and needed to keep him back before he said something stupid to the Beta’s daughter. ‘Like that she should back off since we are her Alpha heir’s mate? Bet she’d back peddle those bedroom eyes real fast.’ Cardinal snorted. I opt to ignore my wolf. I’ve already got one ranked heir pissed. I would rather not add to the list. “If you insist. Miss Zoe, could you please explain the situation to me.” I gestured to the statue. Zoe smirked as I found the loophole. I did call her Zoe. I just continued to include the Miss part. “Before you go back to America, I will hear you say my name, and just my name.” Zoe smirked. Cardinal made gagging sounds in my head. Fucking wolf. Now I’m suppressing laughing. I am trying to not get in trouble with another ranked wolf. “As for the situation, Captain Darren.” Zoe’s lips remained upturned in that smirk. If this had been a few hours ago, I might have considered it. Granted, I usually go for brunettes, but she has curves and blue eyes, which I generally like. ‘Our mate is a brunette with blue eyes and curves just in a different way.’ Cardinal huffed as he sulked in my head. I rolled my eyes at him while giving a patient smile to Zoe. “This colossal idiot sexually harassed me.” Zoe explained, glaring at the statue of Clement. “A status sexually harassed you?” I arched an eyebrow because I’m obviously missing something here. “Oh no. The statue is the idiot. My gift allows me to turn anything into stone.” She explained as her eyes glanced down to my crotch. ‘Seriously? The Beta’s daughter is opening checking your dick out in track shorts.’ Collin chuckled through the pack link. ‘Not amusing. Now shut up.’ I ordered while keeping an impassive expression on my face. “I see. Interesting ability, Miss Zoe.” I wanted the facts.” Now we do, of course, take sexual harassment very seriously. May I ask what he said or did?” “He thanked me for showing him to his room. I think he thought I was an Omega which even if I was what he did next would not be tolerated.” Zoe began to explain. “As I went to leave and continue assisting my mother with getting your warriors settled, this buffoon…” jabbing a thumb in statue Clement’s direction. “Grab my ass.” And it all added up. I groaned and ran a hand over my face. “My deepest apologies, Miss Zoe. His actions will not go without discipline. How long will he be like that?” I questioned, eyeing Clement skeptically. “Till morning. I could change the idiot back sooner, but even for you, I’m not inclined to.” Zoe shrugged. “How will he be disciplined?” She questioned, folding her arms. I can’t make her change him back. I don’t have that kind of authority. And serves the little shit right to wait till morning. “I am limited to some extent. Our Alpha must decide on major punishments. However, he will be confined to his room unless I specifically let him leave it. Does his door lock from the outside?” I asked, nodding to the doorway that the Clement statue stood half inside. Zeo smirked, a devious glint to her eyes. “Why yes, they do.” She nodded, holding up a key. “Is there anything else you would need for his punishment?” She arched a blonde brow. “Is there a bucket we could borrow to act as a chamber pot?” I asked. Collin and Kurt were snickering now. They were on the same page as me. I meant it when I said he doesn’t leave without my approval, even if it’s to take a piss. “I can certainly get one.” Zoe nodded. “Good. That I think will be it, Miss Zoe.” I nodded. “Then I’ll be back with a bucket.” Zoe winked, handing me the key before leaving. I simply nodded as she left. “You two move the dumbass into his room.” I instructed Collin and Kurt. The two groaned but did as I asked. Shuffling the heavy statue into the room. “He’s going to be pissed.” Collin chuckled. “I don’t give two shits about how he feels. He’s lucky I’m not leaving his punishment to the Beta to decide. Something tells me her father would offer worse punishment.” I sighed. “Damn straight, our papa would want worse done.” A voice called from behind me. I turned and quickly schooled my face as I was face to face with the blonde that had been outside laughing leaning against André. Papa? That means he is the son of the Beta. “I don’t believe we’ve been introduced. Captain Darren Delaney. I can assume you are one of the Beta’s children, so a Petridis.” I introduced myself, offering my hand. ‘Why are we offering our hand to this little shit? He was hanging on our mate! We should be biting his hand off, not offering him one.’ Cardinal grumbled. ‘Shut up. He’s a Beta. So most likely friends with André.’ I rolled my eyes at my wolf. “Alexander Petridis, Beta Heir.” Alexander shook my hand with a firm grip. “I saw my sister flirting with you.” He commented. “Was that what she was doing?” I arched my brow. Alexander smiled. “Good for you to not be drawn in. I’m guessing as the Captain of these warriors, you’ll be coming with me upstairs to meet my father and when he returns my cousin, André who is our Alpha heir and acting Alpha while my Zio is otherwise occupied.” Alexander gestured for me to follow him. ‘See Cardinal. We would have looked like idiots to attack him. They are cousins.’ I shook my head at my wolf. “Thank you.” I nodded. “Kurt, come on. We’re going to the Beta to wait for the Alpha heir and your mate.” I gestured for Kurt to tag along. “Collin, make sure Clement is locked down and that the rest of the warriors know a toe out of line will get them the same treatment.” I instructed before heading to the elevators with Alexander and Kurt.

Chapter 6 Chapter 6 - André

Isis was excited to get inside and find Kurt. I could tell based on how her body was buzzing. Oh, to have a mate that wants you. I’ve seen how Kurt looks at Isis. It’s like she’s his everything. Isis is his sun, moon, and every star in the sky, all in one. She’s his universe, and it’s so painfully obvious it makes the rest of us envious. I know I am. I wasn’t before, but I am now the way my mate looked at me. Though he did get jealous earlier when I was in the parking lot with Alexander. ‘We are not using jealousy of your cousin to entice our mate.’ Duilio warned as we walked into the town hall. ‘I would not use my cousin to make our mate jealous.’ I scoffed, offended that he’d believe I would use Alexander like that. ‘Don’t think about using Piero either. Or any of your lovers in this pack. I swear to you now if one of your ex’s touches you in a more than platonic way, I will rip their dicks off.’ Duilio threatened. I rolled my eyes. ‘So violent. You take after papa Chesed. No need for such drastic measures. Goddess. Though honestly, what am I supposed to say. Sorry, no kissing or touching, I found my mate, but he doesn’t want me? Yeah, no.’ I shook my head. “André! Hey cousin.” Zoe waved a hand, shoving a bucket into the hand of the male I had seen with my mate. The one who had his arm around him in a very friendly manner. It doesn’t matter that the male is mated; my wolf feels extra territorial. Duilio was already growling. “Ciao, Zoe.” I gave her a bright smile, throwing my arms out for a hug. “So I hear I missed some excitement. Alexander told me, but you know I love gossip, even more, when it’s straight from the source. So dish, girl.” I laughed as Zoe hugged me. Zoe laughed too and shook her head. “Oh, you missed the excitement after the incident. But fine, I’ll start from the stop. Oh, hey, Isis. Your mate went upstairs to my papa’s office.” Zoe grinned, her attention briefly deviating to Isis. “Oh, okay. André, do you mind if I go up without you?” Isis questioned. I could tell she was eager to see Kurt. “Go on, sweetie. Get your man.” I winked, shooing her away. Isis giggled, blushing as she hurried to the elevators. “Now, dish Zoe. I want to hear all about it before I have to put on my Alpha shoes and be well behaved and broadly… so channel my inner papa Chesed.” I grinned. I mainly was delaying because I could smell my mate strongly here, and I wanted to just revel in it without him actually being there to look at me with those judgy eyes. “Oh, never change André. You’re perfect just as you are. And that includes being an Alpha.” Zoe laughed, shaking her head. “Now for what happened. I’m sure Alexander told you about how a Bloodmoon warrior foolishly grabbed my ass and got turned to stone.” I nodded. “Yes, that’s the gist of what Alexander said. Where is the statue? Was he at least cute?” I glanced around, trying to find the statue. I didn’t see one or anything that indicated where he would be. Perhaps he was further in. I don’t know. “Oh, they already moved and locked him in his room. And I guess he wasn’t bad-looking. But he had that smugness to him I can’t stand. You know I like a humble man.” Zoe smiled. “You like them to be humble, so long as they’d otherwise have something worth bragging about.” I laughed, teasing her. I adore my cousin. We have very similar tastes in men. We have occasionally had the same lover, never at the same time, mind you. Neither of us is the sort who would share like that. I was like that with my toys, too. If I wasn’t playing with it, I didn’t mind if Katrina and Zoe or even Alexander played with them but not while I was playing with them. “So true. And I don’t think the statue had much worth bragging about. But dumbass’s Captain….” Zoe whistled. I raised a brow of interest. ‘We aren’t interested.’ Duilio growled. ‘I have to play along, or she will see right through me. And maybe this Captain is her mate. I would love to hear all about it.’ I countered, shutting him up. “Dish cousin.” I egged her on. “Okay, so after I turned dumbass to a statue Kurt and another wolf… oh that one.” Zoe pointed to the dark-haired man she’d given the bucket to. He froze and arched an eyebrow. “Yes, Miss Petridis?” He cautiously asked. “Oh, sorry, I was just telling my cousin about your Captain Darren. And was pointing you out as one of the people he came in with.” Zoe explained. The male relaxed that he wasn’t being asked to do anything. Instead, he nodded and walked away. I froze. That was the male who walked in with my mate and Kurt. Oh shit. Oh shit. Is my mate this Captain Darren? The male, my cousin, is about to gush about? Oh, fuck my life. I gritted my teeth and grinned at my cousin, hoping maybe I was wrong and it was someone else. “Anyways. Captain Darren is so our type. Tall, dark hair kept short on the sides but long enough on top for a good tug. And the muscles. Oh, André, the muscles. He folded his arms, and I about creamed my panties. From what the shorts showed, he’s got something worth bragging about.” Zoe waggled her eyebrow. ‘She’s describing our mate. She needs to shut up. I don’t like her talking about our mate.’ Duilio started to growl, trying to come forward. Oh crap. He can’t just attack Zoe. ‘Stay back. That’s Zoe. She’s my cousin. I don’t care if she fucked our mate, okay, so that’s a lie. I would care. But I would take it out of our mate’s tight perfect… I would take it out of his ass, not Zoe. She doesn’t know he has a mate let alone that it’s me.’ I shoved Duilio back. “And André …. His face. So handsome. A strong jaw with stubble that we both enjoy. And these beautiful Caribbean blue eyes I wanted to swim in. Too bad he’s not my mate. I could have easily seen having a handsome male like that to call mine.” Zoe sighed. I bit my tongue and just smiled. I have to think before I speak. Not something I do very often. “This Captain Darren sounds delicious. And I know what you mean. Everyone’s finding love. Papa found Crista. And I’m sure Alexander told you my sister is Tiberius’s mate. So she gets sleeping beauty.” I sighed forlornly. Zoe pouted and hugged me. “We will find our mates. I just know it. And they are going to be amazing. Especially yours. He must be to deserve someone as fabulous as you.” She grinned, kissing my cheeks. “Now, go up to papa. Captain Darren is waiting to be introduced to you. Show him what amazing Alphas the D’Amore men are. And get an eyeful of his hotness.” She winked, slapping my ass as she shooed me. “I’ve going to help the rest of the Bloodmoon wolves get settled in. They sent some female warriors, so I want to ensure the she-wolves have all they need.” She waved, disappearing down a hall. I let out a ragged breath after she left. I bet Darren didn’t look at her the way he did me. Oh, goddess, what if that’s why he looked at me like that!? What if he’s bisexual and not entirely out about the being into guys part? I groaned as I got into the elevator. Just what I need is a closet bi mate. Duilio was eerily quiet as I walked to Zio Damon’s office on the top floor. I clenched my jaw as that smokey woodsy scent started to grow stronger with each step. As I stepped into the room, everyone fell quiet. I could tell I had interrupted a conversation based on how everyone’s eyes turned to me. Everyone, including my mate… Captain Darren. Fuck I want to jump him. I want to kiss those lips and sink my teeth into his neck. I want to claim him and mark him so no one, especially my beloved cousin, can ever mistake him as single. I clench my jaw to keep my canines in as I shut the door. “Don’t stop talking on my count.” I teased, walking over to sit on my uncle’s desk. Doing my best to act as casual and normal as possible. Alexander and Zio Damon weren’t buying it. They were both giving me a concerned look. “Hey, André. Thanks for bringing Isis back.” Kurt smiled with his arm around his mate. That goofy lovesick smile on his face and in his eyes. Goddess, I want my mate to look at me like that. I want my mate’s arm around me. Instead, he’s standing stiffly across the room next to Isis. “Who’s the stiff? I thought the statue warrior was downstairs.” I teased because it’s my default. Alexander snickered while Darren’s eyes narrowed ever so slightly at me. Kurt even chuckled and removed his hand from Isis’s waist long enough to poke Darren’s side. “Relax, Delaney.” Kurt rolled his eyes. “André, meet Captain Darren Delaney. Alpha Logan sent him here to be in charge of the warriors since he has military training. He was a Navy SEAL along with his two brothers.” Kurt humble bragged. My mate was military? A Navy SEAL at that. I’ve read about them. They are special forces. He must have some impressive moves and skills then. Explains the stiff posture and all the muscles. And brothers? Lord help the world if they look like him. “Darren, meet André D’Amore Alpha Heir and the acting Incubi Alpha.” Kurt finished his introduction as he gestured to me. There was this tense moment. I could feel the electricity in the air. Electricity or sexual tension, maybe both. Either way, it was crackling in the air between Darren and me. I hopped off the desk and stepped to stand eye to eye with him. I hadn’t gotten this close before. Fuck he’s gorgeous. I find myself looking into those eyes, sinking into them, drowning in them. He smells so damn good. I want him. I don’t care that we are in a room full of people. I want him here and now. Deep in those eyes, I saw a wolf. That handsome fellow from the battlefield. He was edging forward, expressive eyes looking at me with excitement. ‘His wolf wants us.’ Duilio proclaimed or rather cheered. “Nice to meet you, Alpha André.” Darren finally spoke, extending a beefy hand out to me. Oh, goddess, his voice. It’s as smoky as his scent. I want to record him reading anything, ingredients on a cereal box. I don’t care. I only ever want to fall asleep to the sound of his voice. I need a recording of that voice, it can replace my sleep sound machine. “The pleasure is all mine, Captain Darren.” I smirked, putting emphasis on the words ‘all mine’. Because, like it or not, handsome, you are all mine. I took his hand and felt my entire body shiver as the spark of the mate bond coursed through my veins with more power than any bit of lightning I control.

Chapter 7 Chapter 7 - Darren

Cardinal relaxed while we were in the elevator with Kurt and Alexander. He no longer wanted to rip Alexander’s throat out. This is good because the excessive aggressive thing isn’t very Cardinal and certainly not me. We don’t lose our cool over anything. ‘It wasn’t over nothing. Alexander was leaning on our mate. I have a right to be territorial. Just because you are still confused about your sexuality doesn’t mean shit to me. André is our mate. I want him. And you just need to get on board with that or else.’ Cardinal snorted as he curled up in my mine, glaring at me from behind his tail he’d tucked his snout under. I groaned. When did my wolf become such a drama queen? We never had these problems before. ‘Oh, don’t you dare. Don’t you dare blame André. Our problems aren’t his fault. They are yours.’ Cardinal huffed. ‘I wasn’t going to blame André. No one has a say in who the Goddess matches them with. So I can’t put the blame on him. But I can question what the Goddess was thinking. I get that for you; this is all easy. The mate bond rules you because it’s your engrained nature as a wolf.’ I sighed. ‘I’m the one having issues. And I would think you’d be more understanding. In one moment, everything I ever dreamed of having was gone. Poof. The Goddess snapped her fingers, and it was gone.’ I tried to explain. ‘Not everything you dreamed of is gone. You dreamed of having your mate of loving someone, and being loved by them. If you hadn’t given our mate that look when you realized his gender, you’d have that right now. It wouldn’t have been Alexander leaning into our mate, smiling and having a good time. It’d have been us.’ Cardinal snorted. ‘And once again, you don’t get it. I’m not attracted to men. I never have been. What kind of love can there be when I’m not attracted to my mate? And what about the part of my dreams of having a family?’ I questioned. ‘My brothers are going to start families and make me an uncle probably more times over than I want to count. The uncle. And that’s all I’m going to ever be now. And yes, I know things like adoption, and all that exists.’ I sighed. ‘It doesn’t change that my dream had been being there with my mate through her pregnancy. Of being at her side as our pup came into this world. I can’t have that with him.’ I clenched my hands, trying to ensure that my inner turmoil wasn’t spilling to the outside. Cardinal had fallen silent after my rant. Good. Maybe now he can start thinking more about what this means to me, on why I’m not so quick to just go with this as him. And if he’s quiet, it means my head can be clear while I have to talk with the Beta and, Goddess help me, face André. ‘Are you nervous?’ Kurt whispered through the pack link. I arched an eyebrow as we stopped outside the Beta’s office. A gold plaque hanging on the door said, ‘Beta Damon Petridis.’ ‘Of course not. Just thinking about a million different things.’ I assured him. Kurt shrugged as Alexander led the way into his father’s office. “Ciao, papa. I’ve got Kurt and Captain Darren with me.” Alexander greeted his father. The family resemblance was undoubtedly there. Other than the shade of their blue eyes, Alexander looked like a clone of his father. “Good to meet you, Captain Darren. I’m Beta Damon Petridis.” Damon greeted, coming out from his desk to offer me his hand. He was dressed in business casual, similar to our Beta John’s style. I could faintly smell blood on him and noticed a stain on his shirt. “Thank you for meeting with me, Beta Damon. And for the hospitality, your pack has given to our traveling members and now to my team.” I bowed my head. “Were you injured?” I questioned, nodding to the blood on his shirt. Damon raised an eyebrow looking down and groaning. A series of Italian curses fell from his lips. Alexander was snickering. “Mamma is going to kill you. Getting blood on another dress shirt. I told you to change before you arrived at the hospital.” Alexander smirked, shaking his head. “You shh.” Damon pointed at his son, making a zipper across the lips motion. “I’ll get the shirt dry cleaned, and your mother doesn’t need to know. If she does, I’ll know you ratted me out. And then I’ll go tell Silvano you’ve been screwing around with his unmated daughter.” Damon warned his son as he removed the shirt. “Papa! That is a total lie. I have not slept with her… just made out a few times.” Alexander frowned, folding his arms. “Silvano won’t care. You’ll be doing janitor work at the hospital for a year.” Damon shrugged, walking to a far wall opening a hidden door to take out a clean shirt. I cleared my throat to remind the duo they weren’t alone. “Pardon us. You know how it can be between fathers and sons. We like to bicker at times.” Damon shrugged, buttoning up his shirt. I saw Kurt shift uncomfortably from the corner of my eye. I know for Kurt, the subject of fathers is not easy. “Of course, sir. While we were traveling here, I and others broke off from our convoy to assist in an attack. Now then, I wanted to be debriefed on the current state of things. How often are they happening? Do we have any details about the enemy that you could share?” I questioned, taking my usual military stance. Damon and Alexander both arched a brow at me. “You’re military, aren’t you? That or your Alpha takes war more seriously than I’ve assumed based on Kurt and some of the other’s dispositions.” Damon questioned. Kurt looked a bit called out. “Our Alpha does take war seriously. We are not the largest pack in North America with the most feared Alpha for nothing, sir. As for any impression you may have received from Kurt or the others, they aren’t here in the capacity of warriors but in search of mates.” I explained, trying to give an excuse for Kurt and the others. “And you are also correct. I have served in the military. I was enlisted for five years.” I confirmed with a stiff nod. “I see. Well, that makes sense. And I’ll go over everything I have when my nephew arrives. He is acting Alpha, and so I must wait. You understand.” Damon nodded. “Of course, sir.” I had a few things I needed to discuss with Isis Adio. “I understand that he will also be bringing Miss Adio with him. I will need to meet with her as well.” I nodded. “Why do you need to meet with Isis?” Damon arched a blonde brow. “Who needs to meet with me?” A female voice interrupted as a girl shyly poked her head into the room. Other than the blue eyes and the streak of blonde hair, she looks nearly identical to Beta Sarael. “Miss Adio.” I bowed my head to her. Kurt’s face lit up, quickly moving to usher her into the room. “Welcome back.” Kurt smiled, kissing her cheek. Never once did he let his hands leave her. ‘That the power of the mate bond. You never want to let your mate go.’ Cardinal chimed in. I rolled my eyes at him, opting to ignore him. “Hi, Kurt. Are you okay? André said you went to one of the fights.” Isis stepped back slightly, checking Kurt for any injuries. Once satisfied, she hugged him tightly. “I’m fine, Isis. André handled most of the Mandonie himself.” Kurt assured, kissing the top of her head. My heart ached at the sight. That is what I’d always thought finding a mate would be like. Not whatever you define what I’m dealing with. ‘And shut up. Don’t say it’s my own fault. I don’t want to hear it.’ I preemptively stopped Cardinal from talking. I don’t want to listen to him putting all the blame on my shoulders. I carry enough burdens on them. Alexander cleared his throat with a smirk. Isis jumped and blushed brightly. “Um. Sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude. Zoe said I should come up while she talked to André.” Isis shyly apologized. “It’s fine, Miss Adio. I needed to meet you anyway. I’m Darren Delaney. Your uncle, Beta John, assigned me as your bodyguard.” I explained, offering my hand to the girl in greeting. “A…a bodyguard? Is that necessary? And oh, I’m sorry. It’s still nice to meet you, Darren.” Isis was a bit flustered as she shook my hand. She quickly went back to Kurt’s side, sticking close to him. “Given you are in a warzone and the daughter of a ranked wolf, yes, having a bodyguard is fairly normal. And given my abilities, it makes sense that I was given this added assignment.” I explained. “Oh, and what are your abilities?” Damon questioned. I was about to answer him when my body froze, and the words fizzled out on my tongue. That scent of sea salt and orchids found its way to me. André is here. I moved out of the way, taking a position to flank Isis as he entered. I don’t think I’ve ever met someone that enters a room like this man. He’s an uninhibited ball of energy, moving with smooth, confident steps that are as light as a feather. Greeting us with a jovial smile as he jumped on Damon’s desk. I would say he reminds me of my little brother Azriel and our Delta Silvercloud, but that wouldn’t be right. While Silvercloud and Azriel are eccentric and spontaneous individuals, they don’t measure up to André. He has this air and glow about him. His very presence in the room seemed to have a lightening effect on everyone. I could see it in Damon and Alexander, their posture and expressions relaxed and warmed at the sight of their Alpha Heir. Even Kurt and Isis both seemed at ease in his presence. I’m apparently the only one that isn’t. Every cell in my body is buzzing and on high alert. Overly aware of every tiny movement André made. This man moves more like a cat than a wolf. And he throws verbal jabs that stab me with such accuracy as he calls me out for standing so stiffly. Kurt’s suggestion of relaxing fell on deaf ears. How do I relax when I’m in a room with him? How do I relax when every muscle has tightened, either preparing to run or pounce? ‘Pounce!’ Cardinal urged me as André slipped off the desk and moved to stand in front of me.

Chapter 8 Chapter 8 - Darren

There’s this crackling of electricity in the air. Does anyone else feel it? Is it just me? I’m not sure, but having him this close, standing eye to eye, is not making me relax. He’s looking at me with such intensity I’m reasonably sure he’s seeing into my soul. Cardinal even felt it as he got up and started to walk forward. As if our mate was a siren silently beckoning him forward. I decided I needed to do something, to say something. So I offered my hand and greeted him respectfully. After all, it’s what’s expected. I’m a Captain of an allied, temporarily, force, and he is the Alpha Heir and acting Alpha. It’s only respectful and proper that I greet him as such. I just wasn’t thinking when I offered my hand rather than a bow of my head. I wasn’t prepared for the jolt that went through me when our hands met. Nor the shiver creeping down my spine when André said ‘all mine.’ The words themselves are innocuous, but the tone he used and the look in those sapphire eyes made it clear he was indirectly claiming me. “Now then, what were you discussing when I walked in?” André asked, not looking away from me or letting my hand go. Is he trying to make me uncomfortable? Or to see if the longer our skin stays in contact, I’ll succumb to the bond? Either way, I cleared my throat and ignored Cardinal’s warnings. “Of course. Be happy to catch you up. Perhaps I could have my hand back first?” I arched a brow, glancing down to where he still held a firm grip on my hand. ‘Hey, if he can grip your hand that firmly imagine what else he can grip.’ Cardinal tried to entice me. I clenched my jaw because damn my wolf. He needs to stop putting thoughts like that into my mind. “Oops. My bad, handsome. You can have that back.” André winked a devious glint to his eyes as he released my hand. “André, back off. Darren’s not really the guy that you mess with.” Kurt sighed. André cocked an eyebrow but didn’t take his eyes off me. “Is that so? But what if I want to mess with him? I can think of a million fun ways to mess him up.” His lips curled up into a smile that reminded me of that weird cat in the Lewis Carroll book. ‘You mean the Cheshire Cat? And I think that suits our mate very well.’ Cardinal helpfully reminded me of the character. And as I thought about the characters, it really does seem to fit what I’ve seen so far about my mate. ‘HA! You said ‘my mate’! You claimed him!’ Cardinal was jumping around in excitement. I rolled my eyes. ‘Saying or rather thinking that doesn’t mean anything. Just shut up. You’re distracting me.’ I shooed him back. “André… I think you’re missing my point.” Kurt sighed. “Darren’s straight. Which shit. Darren, are you going to be cool when you see Sheila again? She’s mated now. Her mate is from this pack.” Kurt smacked his palm to his forehead. I blinked, looking away from André at this news. “Sheila found her mate? Well, that’s wonderful news. I’ll have to congratulate her and her mate.” I nodded. I could feel André’s wary gaze on me as he took two steps back. “You were involved with Gianluigi’s Sheila?” André questioned. ‘Don’t fuck this up. I swear to the Goddess if you mess this up!’ Cardinal warned as I turned my gaze back to André. “I’m not sure how or if it’s relevant. But yes. We dated for a while. We called things off a couple of months ago as our wolves were restless to find their mates. Sheila chose to go to the gatherings.” I shrugged. “You were with a woman?” André seemed more stuck on that point. I cocked an eyebrow folding my arms. “Yes. I still don’t see how this is relevant or appropriate conversation. Do you often question people about their sexuality?” I countered. “Not generally. But my radar is never wrong. So it’s odd to hear you’re straight.” André casually shrugged. His words and even body language may be displaying indifference, but he can’t fool me. Those eyes of his are more expressive than he thinks. I can see the wheels turning in there. Hearing I’m straight has him shaken. ‘Of course, it does, you idiot. We. Are. His. Mate.’ Cardinal grumbled, putting his paw over his muzzle. If he was human, that expression would have been a facepalm. “If we are done discussing sexualities. I believe Captain Darren was going to tell us about his ability and why they made him suited to be Isis’s bodyguard.” Damon called the situation to order. “Of course, Zio. Please, Captain Darren, elaborate.” André smiled, giving a dramatic wave of his hand. I sighed, rolling my shoulders. That damn crackling of electricity just as strong as when he walked into the room filled the air between us. “It is easier to show than explain.” I shrugged. “Oh well, I’m all for a good show and tell. Please, demonstrate. Show me what you’ve got.” André smirked. His tone and posturing came off as joking and playful. But it felt more like he was the one putting on the show. ‘Duh. Our mate is trying to act normal. This must be normal for him. He doesn’t want his uncle and cousin to realize we’re his mate and that you’re so obviously not claiming him. Just give our mate a demonstration of our power.’ Cardinal rolled his eyes. I sighed and nodded. Closing my eyes, I called up the power Cardinal gives me, the power that generations of Delaney have held. As I opened my eyes, I could see everyone in the room. Everything looked hazy like a thin layer was dividing me from them as I became invisible. Slowly I stepped away from where I stood next to Isis. I navigated around the room or specifically around my mate. Taking my time as I looked at him. Taking in every detail. André’s blue mohawk, the five o’clock shadow along his jaw. The way the borrowed clothes, from the same bin as mine, fit him. ‘Even in track shorts, his ass looks good.’ Cardinal mused as my eyes drifted down to that curve of his backside. ‘You’re checking him out. Using our power to do it without anyone knowing. Shameful.’ Cardinal teased. “Where did he go?” Isis blinked, looking around. “That’s the gift of the Delaney bloodline. They can become invisible. People can’t even smell them when they use their gifts. I know their old Alpha used them for spies and assassins. Alpha Logan, however, is a straightforward guy, so he doesn’t bother with that.” Kurt shrugged. He’s not wrong. That is how my former Alpha treated and used my family. We didn’t like it, but who were we to argue with our Alpha. He got what was coming when Alpha Logan took his head. As Isis reached for the spot I had been standing, she gasped, finding thin air. “So, where is he?” she asked. “He’s behind me.” André smiled confidently. “What makes you think that? Like Kurt said, we can’t even smell him. I can’t even hear his heartbeat.” Alexander questioned. “Call it D’Amore intuition.” André shrugged, spinning on heels, so he was facing me. My eyes glanced down at his lips before taking a half step back. Our noses… our lips… were inches apart. I thought to get back before he could reach me. But his hand reached out, and my invisibility faded as he grabbed a fist full of my shirt. That Cheshire cat grin on his lips as his eyes danced with amusement. “Caught you.” André taunted. “Now, what should I do with you? That’s the real question.” That amusement in his eyes took a darker, more devious turn. ‘He can do anything he wants. Tell him that.’ Cardinal insisted. ‘Shut it.’ I growled at Cardinal. “You could start with letting my shirt go. It’s borrowed, and I wouldn’t want to stretch the fabric out or tear it needlessly. Alpha André .” I suggested keeping a straight face. André laughed. It didn’t seem forced or fake in any way. My answer actually amused him. “Wouldn’t be needless if it leaves you shirtless, Tesoro Mio.” He whispered so quietly I almost didn’t hear him. My Italian is a bit rusty, but I could work out what he called me. He called me his treasure. ‘He’s already giving us a pet name. I like it.’ Cardinal shivered at the same time as I did. I arched an eyebrow at him, waiting silently, forcing my face to otherwise maintain my perfected poker face. With a sigh, André let me go. “How did you do that?” Kurt questioned as I walked back over to stand beside Isis. “How did he do that? Even Alpha Logan can’t tell when you and your brothers are using your powers.” Kurt questioned me. “It takes a very skilled and well-trained Alpha or a mate to detect our presence.” I explained. “Are you saying Alpha Logan isn’t as well trained as André?” Kurt questioned, looking at me in shock. “I am not being dismissive of our Alpha. But he did have a more condensed training as Alpha being the second-born son. Beta John, having the more extensive Alpha training, can detect us when he tries.” I shrugged. I can’t say if André can pinpoint my location because he’s that well trained as Alpha heir or because we’re mates. I know my brothers can’t sneak up on their mates to save their lives. Sadria and Alison always sniff them out. ‘It’s probably both. As our mate, he was bound to detect us and our scent.’ Cardinal concluded. “That’s an interesting gift. I hope you and your brothers didn’t use it to get into trouble. No, I don’t think you’re the sort to use his gift frivolously.” André teased.