“Nu uh.”
A light bulb clicked in his brain. “It’s the pack. I’m already connected to them through Delilah. I’m so agitated because I need to claim them, give peace and get Tidus’s men outta here.”
Giggles ensued. “Yer so smart, Blakey. They need yous. You and yer flower.”
A sigh of relief found its way out of Blake. “Thanks buddy. I should have figured it out. This has been a long few weeks for me. Waiting until I found the pack, finding my mate, meeting her family and mating the most wonderful woman. I really appreciate your calls. Call me anytime but now I have to go.”
“Okay. Remember don’t tell ma bout the pop tarts. See you soon.”
And just as suddenly as the conversation started it was over. Blake was excited to begin planning with his wild flower.
That had to be the most unusual conversation she’d ever listened in on. Her mother always said that’s what you get for listening to conversations you weren’t meant to hear. She had to ask.
“So…who’s Trevor? What was that whole conversation? I feel like I was in the twilight zone. How does he know about me?”
“Trevor’s my old alphas adopted son. He’s amazing; I can’t wait for you to meet him. He says you have a lovely aura.”
She knew she’d never met him so she was kinda freaked.
“He’s six, almost seven. He’s got the gift of sight. Not so hard to believe when we turn into wolves, is it? Well, his mother says he can’t go around telling people what their future shows so he’s nice enough to give hints. Don’t tell Shana if you ever meet her. She’d be pissed.” His eyes looked thoughtful for a moment, “And don’t mention the pop tart thing either. That boy has it bad for pop tarts.”
Delilah couldn’t help but laugh. Clearly Blake loved this kid and she felt a momentary pang at the fact that he had such amazing people in his life. Would he want to go back?
“Anyways, he thinks because we mated and I’m the most alpha around I’m picking up the anguish of your pack. Give me a rundown of the goings on of late and in the morning we need to call a meeting.”
“Okay, in the morning I’ll call a pack meeting through Morena.” Pulling out a kitchen chair she began to settle when she felt warm hands on her shoulders. He rubbed her sore muscles; his big hands glanced over her mate mark causing a full body shiver.
“My flower, let’s go to bed. I’m feeling much better. We’ll worry about everything else in the morning.”
Her smile came easy for the first time in what felt like forever. “Thank goodness. I want my mate again tonight, if you’re up to it.”
“I’ll always be up when I’m around you.”
Chapter 8
The chirping of his phone was going to drive him crazy. For the fourth time in an hour he was going to be interrogated. Family and friends were awesome, until something changed and then the calls would drive even the sanest man to the loony house. So far his mother had called, closely followed by his father. His two brothers had called as well, separately. His poor mate was probably freaked so he clicked the answer button quick, hoping she didn’t hear.
No such luck. Her sleepy voice was raspy in the silence. “Tell them we fucked, mated and are blessedly happy. No cause for worry. I’m a nice person and I fully intend to watch your back. Then come back to bed. We only have thirty minutes to cuddle.”
His chuckle was immediate as he saw the caller ID, “Good morning, Jake. How can I help you?”
“Just checking in, I’m guessing you found the pack. You haven’t called in or confirmed that you’ve found them, I’m merely going on assumption.”
“I found them. So far I’m good. I’ve found my fated and we’re making plans.”
Jake’s cough used to concern him, he wasn’t sure if he should be happy it no longer did. “I heard her. I checked my cell phone and it shows a few calls that I didn’t make. It better not have been Shana, so I’m going to assume it was Trevor. Is everything ok?”
“It was Trev, he knew I was lonely without my family, he wanted to make me feel better. He told me the pop tart story and successfully changed my mood. Now I have something to hold over your head. How are you?”
“Cheap shot, Blake. Things are fine here, status quo. Do you need any help up there with wild Tidus wolves?”
“Honestly, I just mated my fated so I’ll need some time. The pack isn’t going to wait, I wouldn’t expect them to. I’m calling a pack meeting today. Delilah will be by my side and have my back.”
“I’m just a phone call away if you need me. Don’t hesitate to call.”
He couldn’t keep the bitterness out of his voice and to be honest, he didn’t want to. “No, Jake, you’re a phone call and an ocean away. Thanks for your concern but you sent me here to deal with a problem and I intend to do just that.”
“You’re never alone Blake. Your parents, brothers and friends would castrate me if they thought I sent you into danger. I honestly believe you won’t meet resistance when they realize Tidus is dead.”
“Thanks, I have to go.” Blake actually hung up on Jake. In his pack he’d have been punished or shamed if he hung up on the alpha. Not today, he punked his old alpha and felt awesome, ready to start the day.
Feeling empowered he strode over to Delilah, planting a firm assertive kiss to her lips. “Get ready, darlin’. Today we take this pack by storm, tomorrow the world.” Manacle laughter went with his comment before he sobered. “Let your brothers know they can have your cabin, we’re moving into alpha house tonight.”
Delilah relaxed into his kiss until he mentioned alpha house. Alpha house wasn’t what it once was. Embarrassment caused her to stiffen in his arms, pulling back. “Blake, it’s been a rough couple of years.”
“I know, my flower. I don’t blame you for anything that happened. I’ve heard the stories of how you defended your students, even attempting to defeat Tidus. I understand. I didn’t make the connection until yesterday when I met your family. You challenged Tidus and he attempted to claim you for power.”
She could feel tears gather in her eyes, “He cheated. I would have defeated him if he hadn’t drugged me.”
His warm comforting arms came around her. “Shh, I know. You are definitely alpha female. I’m sorry for what your pack’s gone through but it’s over. We are the alphas now and I’ll be damned if anyone’s abused or threatened on my watch.”
“On our watch.” She linked their hands, “We’re in this together. I know the history of this pack and you’ll be the muscle.”
Hopping out of the bed she sprinted to the bathroom, giggling as Blake followed growling while reaching for her naked body.
Following a very long shower, where they scrubbed every inch of each other’s bodies and reconnected, they dressed for a hostile takeover, tactical pants with plain shirts. Delilah wanted to load up with weapons, but Blake put a kibosh on that plan. “If we’re going to lead it’s time to bring back the old ways. No weapons. If I’m challenged I’ll fight with honor and integrity. I will expect that from every member, so tell your dad.”
The rolling of her eyes actually turned him on especially when she put her hands on her hips, back straightening, pushing her perfect breasts forward. “I told you, it’s not his fault.”
Approaching with caution, Blake smoothed a comforting hand over her silky soft hair. “I know, love. I just like messing with you. I’m all healed and no harm done.”
“I don’t want you to fight. I just met you and I’d like to keep you around for a while.”
Swatting her tush playfully he chastised. “Such little faith in my alphaness? You’ll pay for that later, mate.”
Rubbing her stinging butt Delilah twirled into his arms, placing her hands against his chest, digging her fingernails into his muscles. “Oh, maybe you’ll be the one to pay later.”
Yes, please. “I look forward to it.”
Murmurs rose as the pack gathered at their meeting grounds. Blake had arrived early with his Delilah in tow watchi
ng from a safe distance. He wanted to watch the dynamics before calling himself out as alpha. He’d spent literally no time with this pack and he was about to make an announcement that would have them reeling. Delilah briefly pointed out Tidus’s loyal followers, but even if she hadn’t, Blake would have been able to spot them.
The meeting was supposed to take place ten minutes ago, Blake waited to see who would buck the system first. It didn’t take long.
“What the hell are we waiting for? Who was the one to call this meeting?”
Poor stupid Morena stepped forward, not being able to help herself, needing to be the center of attention. With her bleach blond hair, three inch heels and cleavage baring top, all eyes were on her. Blake knew she’d be trouble with a capital T. “Tidus sent someone with a message. He told me to call the meeting so he could give us a message.”
“This is bullshit. I haven’t heard from Tidus in months. It’s time to appoint a new leader. I nominate me.”
There were shouts mixed with growls among the pack, very foolish move. This guy was obviously not well respected or liked. It would be easy to challenge him and win. In fact, Blake would relish the fight.
Blake whispered to Delilah. “Who’s this guy?”
Her breath kissed his ear causing an involuntary shiver. “Phil was Tidus’s second. He’s been running the pack for the past few months.”
“Is he always such a jerk?”
Making eye contact with her he saw the daft look she sent to him. “Uh, duh? He’s second to Tidus, what did you expect?”
Reaching down to pinch her bum he smiled as she squeaked. “I didn’t expect anything less, my flower. You could be a little less sassy, I’m learning. Is there anyone else who you think will protest my taking over?”
“Yeah, just about everyone. I don’t think anyone else will challenge you though. If you do that cool freeze trick, how could they?”
Puffing out his chest he responded, “You can say it, I’m awesome.”
He was shocked when she hit him in the shoulder, hard. “You are awesome. Focus, Mr. Nunn.”
“Ouch, that’s domestic violence. Do you plan on hitting me often? If so, I prefer you doing it in the bedroom.” He wiggled his eyebrows and sent her a playful grin.
Scenting her arousal, he was shocked when she grasped his shoulders in a firm grip and pulled him in for a hard kiss. Pushing him back she sobered, putting her forehead against his. “Blake, I adore you. I love you. I can’t wait to start our life. First we need to claim this pack; we’ve been in turmoil for a long time now and I want to get this over with. My nerves are shot and when you touch me, or talk to me, or look at me I forget everything except surrounding myself in your arms and making sweet love. Please stop torturing me. Go, claim the pack, I’m right behind you.”
“Saucy wench, I can’t go out there with a massive boner. Wanna run home real quick?”
“No, you’re pushin’ it. Don’t get that cocky smile, yet. You have to introduce yourself, do the non-hostile takeover and you haven’t even seen alpha house. It’s going to be a long day before you get…relief.”
Standing abruptly Blake grabbed Delilah’s hand, pulling her into the clearing. “Let’s do this then. I want my mate in my bed tonight.”
Voice rising, Phil, obviously didn’t see them enter the clearing.
“Does anyone wish to challenge me? If not get in line to make your blood oath?”
“I challenge.” Blake plastered on his sexy calm grin for the pack to see. Trying to appear non-threatening to his new pack was easy. He’d been practicing his entire life. “Hey y’all, I’m Blake Nunn. I’m from the American Canyon pack in California. I’ve come to take over. Tidus is dead.”
Phil’s face turned an ugly shade of red before he took a breath and began to yell. “Unbelievable. Can you fucking believe this? An outsider? Fuck no! Go away and never come back.”
Delilah’s father chimed in. “Finally, where were you two?”
Blake looked around the clearing for any sign of danger noting most the looks of shock on the packs faces. “Your daughter is insatiable and was feeling me up in the bushes.” He chanced a glance back at Delilah who was glaring at him. “I told you your dad would be pissed.”
Delilah surprised him and stuck her tongue out at him and rolled her eyes. Apparently she knew he was trying to be charming and easy going. “We’re here now though, so…Thanks for stepping up Phil, but you’re services are no longer needed. Do you want to remain in the pack or seek leadership elsewhere?”
“I’m not going back to being second in the pack. I’m a leader.” Phil regarded the people he’d been leading for the past couple months anticipating support. “Are you going to let this fucking pussy lead you?”
A loud laugh came from Delilah, shocking everyone in the clearing. She quickly covered her mouth with her hand to stifle the giggles. The rest of the pack stood with shocked looks on their faces.
Blake huffed out a breath. “Unfortunately, the spot of second has been filled by Hunter here. So, I guess we’ll be seeing ya.” Blake turned his back, dismissing Phil as a threat and addressing the pack. “I’m Blake Nunn and I’ve recently mated Delilah Hunt. I’ll be your new alpha and I couldn’t be happier. I plan to bring back the old ways where pack hierarchy is in place and my sole purpose as alpha is to teach, support and protect. I know you’ve been through the wringer because I’ve heard from Katarina how the last few years have been. Any questions before we move this meeting to alpha house?”
Silence. No one spoke, or moved; they appeared to be holding their breath.
“Okay, anyone want to challenge me?” Blake really didn’t want to start his leadership having to hurt people, but he would.
“I challenge.” Phil’s voice was firm and Blake had to give him credit. Phil appeared to be in alright shape and he looked to be in his mid-forties, not old for a shifter. He did have a really terrible smell though; skunkish.
Sighing, Blake regarded the crowd. “Alright, everyone take a few steps back and form a circle.” No one moved so he released his power slightly and as people stumbled back they also greedily inhaled his power. Unfortunately, Phil also stumbled back a few paces.
“Oops, sorry Philly, come on back in the circle so we can get this over with.” Blake had to reach out and pull him into the fighting ring. “Usually, an alpha challenge is to the death but since it’ll be my first day and I don’t want to kill anyone, why don’t we make it until the other submits.”
Blake attempted a calming smile for his opponent; however, Phil was having none of it. He lunged, trying to catch Blake off guard. Blake merely sidestepped him allowing him to fall on his hands and knees. “Do you submit, Phil?”
“Hell no, pussy.”
Phil rose and lunged in Blake’s direction again. This time Blake stood his ground, frowning at Phil, “I don’t like the way you talk in front of ladies,” Blake then proceeded to box Phil’s ears. “Show some respect in the future.”
Phil was hunched over wheezing, holding onto his ringing ears. He clearly wasn’t in any shape to continue, yet he couldn’t resist one last attempt.
Giving a war cry, a sweating, panting, exhausted Phil reached down grabbed a handful of dirt and tossed it in Blake’s face. Blake knew it was coming because this pack fought dirty. He was just glad Phil hadn’t brought a gun or a knife to the meeting.
Delilah screamed as Phil threw something into Blake’s face. At her resounding growl all eyes went back and forth between her and the fight. She had to give it to Blake though. He didn’t even flinch. He did however, swing his arm out as Phil charged him and connected with the side of his face, knocking him out cold.
She’d never been happier when Blake announced, “it’s over. Does anyone else want to challenge me?”
To her disappointment another of Tidus’s men came forward. “Can you even see?”
One word, “Nope.”
“Hell, I’ll rule the pack. I challenge.”
Delilah w
as pissed. Why did Blake even have to ask? He was out of commission with dusty, watering, abused eyes. “But-“
She was cut off when Blake asked, “What’s your name?”
He appeared confident and proud. He was clearly not a leader though because he had no respect for others. “Billy, you need a minute to catch your breath?”
Laughing Blake’s response shocked a few people. “Do I look tired to you? Come on, let’s get this over with.”
Billy pulled a knife out of his pocket and flipped it open. “Alright. Say goodbye.”
Before anyone could protest or say anything to warn Blake, Billy was moving toward him, arm raised to strike with the knife. Blake let him get close before kicking his foot out tripping him and as he went down Blake punched him hard under his raised arm.
Listening to Billy attempt to catch his breath, Delilah approached intending to get the knife.
“Back off, Del. This is my fight and I can play dirty if I want. I’m trying to show the pack I’m honorable, I can and will fight by the rules.” He then proceeded to step on Billy’s wrist forcing him to release the knife.
“Ouch, man. I give up. You can have the pack, I’m outta here.”
Blake lifted his foot and allowed Billy to get up. Delilah laughed when Billy attempted to bend over and retrieve the knife and her mate kneed him in the face.
“I don’t think so. The knife is mine. Anyone else care to challenge me?”
Chapter 9
After washing his face and doing a thorough rinse of his eyes Blake was led to alpha house by the pack. They all had been cleared to continue their day as normal and he would see himself to the house but they all requested to accompany him and Delilah. After no other challenges were issued Blake explained he would forgo the blood bond for a few weeks and if anyone cared to relocate they need only let him know and he would release them with well wishes.
Pack Law (Fated Mate) Page 6
