What the hell? “Kid, I want nothing to do with your insides. Don’t worry. I’m tellin’ you to stop fretting.”
Snickering Tristan replied. “You sound like my ma. Fretting.”
Puffing out his chest. “Do I look like your ma? Pick up the garbage and let’s toss it so we can go back inside. It’s freezing out here.”
Doing as his alpha asked Tristan showed Bake where the garbage was. When they got further outside Blake noticed the yard was picked up too. There was snow covering the land but all the exposed ugly trash and litter were picked up. “Wow, your pack works fast when they want to.”
Garbage where it belonged they began to head for the house when Blake’s ears picked up a strange whizzing sound. A half second later Blake saw something coming towards them. Since Blake and Tristan were so close together he had no idea who the target was or even what they were being attacked with. He shoved Tristan toward the protection of the garage and that cost seconds he apparently didn’t have.
He felt the burning sensation to his leg and saw an arrow sticking out of the flesh of his outer thigh. Who uses arrows, was his first thought. I guess here in Alaska where it snow and there are mountains that could cause an avalanche, arrows would be a logical choice. However, he was more of a claws and fangs type of guy. He was raised to believe that, anything other than what God gave you was cheating. He’d lived by that philosophy for all of his years with no problem.
“Holy shit, that’s cool. Does it hurt?”
Fabulous, he was stuck with one of the twig twins to protect and he was being used as a kebob. “Let’s go in the house and lock everything down. Do you have any enemies?”
“Whoa, don’t look at me. I didn’t do it this time, I was right next to you.”
Exasperated Blake rolled his eyes and pinched the bridge of his nose, “Duh, I want to know if anyone wants to hurt you.”
Tristan eyed Blake with disbelief, “You’re kidding right? I’m pretty sure you were the target. I have no enemies.”
Figured. “Just checking. Come on, your sisters gonna be pissed.” Blake smiled.
“Why are you grinning if my sister is gonna be mad? She’s not very nice when she’s mad. Believe me, I know.”
“Yeah, but it’s just a flesh wound and she’s a great nurse.”
“Eew, dude. Have some respect for my fragile little mind. I could be scarred for life if you keep talking like that.”
Grinning wider he pushed Tristan to the door and hobbled after him. “Come on, kid. It’s too cold out here.”
Stripping off all the bed linens was harder than she thought. Why are there so many beds in this house? She knew it was for the pack and the rooms should always be ready but she couldn’t help at be annoyed that the mattresses were disgusting and the sheets even worse. She was actually wearing gloves. Ripping off the linen and tossing it outside the room she heard a commotion.
Blake called her name, calm as always, disrupting her inner tigress from roaring back. If he’d just yell or bellow, maybe even screech she could show her irritation with the world; mostly just Tidus and his followers for causing such a mess.
Not showing her annoyance at the interruption she called back. “I’m in here. Just call me Cinderella because I’ll be cleaning from sun up to sun down.” Trying to stay calm she couldn’t hold back her sarcasm. “Would you like me to make your gown later, alpha?”
Hearing him enter the room she kept her back to him, he stupidly said. “Why would I wear a gown?”
She turned full intending to shriek her displeasure with this smelly, musty, filthy cleaning job. When she looked at him he had one small line pinching his eyebrows. She’d never seen that before, but knew he must be upset at something.
“What now?”
Attempting a grin he fell short and reached down at a branch he was holding. Wait…he had a branch sticking out of his leg. No, it was an arrow. “Holy moly, you’ve been shot with an arrow.”
He smirked. “Thank you captain obvious, I’m sure glad I got me a smart mate.”
Delilah ignored his grumbling and frowned over at him. “What happened?”
Grabbing the arrow from the point he pulled it the rest of the way free of his skin and bit back a curse. A gush of blood came out before he applied pressure. “That sucked. I want you to stay away from the windows and you’re not to go outside. We’re officially on lockdown.”
Her eyebrows pinched together. “We’re on house arrest?”
Heaving an exasperating sigh he counted to ten in his head. “Did you just see me pull an arrow out of my thigh?”
She moved her head in agreement.
“It didn’t feel good Del, I don’t want you to get shot, or stabbed, or hurt. You’re whole family is here and safe. Let’s keep it that way.”
Blake stood there holding his leg and eyeing his mate when she suddenly shot forward and knocked him down to the ground raining kisses all over his face. It felt so good he released his leg and squeezed her tight. “I’m alright, Del. Don’t worry about me.”
“I just found you; I don’t want to be without you. Ever. Promise we’ll be together forever.”
He could feel her tears against his neck running down to the floor. “I’m here. I don’t want to be without you either.”
“But-“
“Come on Cinderella, we should go talk to your family. Your dad flipped when he saw me and Tristan. Let’s go put them at ease.”
“What’s wrong with Tristan?”
“Merciful Saint Jude, woman, nothing is wrong with your family. Now let’s go downstairs so you can work on the chimney.”
She sat up straddling him and smacked him in the shoulder. “That’s not funny.”
“I thought it was quite clever.”
Grabbing her hips he ground his pelvis into hers twice before he launched her in the air and she landed on her feet screaming, wee.
“Later, mate, you’re too tempting. Your dad is waiting for us to bring the first aid kit.” He jumped up with only a slight grimace. “Will you be my nurse?”
Chapter 11
After his wound was tended and his father-in-law was done pacing and double checking the locks on the doors, windows and individual bedrooms, he sat on the floor of the living room where everyone was gathered. All those that were in alpha house were accounted for and ruled out as suspects. If they were inside the house they weren’t outside in the freezing cold trying to kill him.
Pondering all the people who might hate him he figured he could solve another problem that’d been plaguing him. “Sooo, who else sent their kid away to protect them from Tidus?”
A few gasps were heard around the room along with the unmistakable sound and smell of tears. Shucks, maybe he could have been a little more politically correct about the announcement, but he needed to know. He needed to get those kids back with their parent.
“No one’s in trouble, in fact I’ll be the first to commend you on protecting your children. I just want you to be able to have your pack and your family together again. We belong together.”
Just after his announcement his cell phone rang. He’d forgotten he’d even had it since he rarely got service. It was a pleasant surprise that he had cell service at pack house. The screen showed AC alphas as the contact; Jake and Shana. No thank you.
He was in no mood to deal with Jake or Shana at the moment. They all wanted to coddle him and he was in no mood for it. Why would they send him up here to deal with the situation if they didn’t think he could deal?
“Alright people. Who is unaccounted for?”
Everyone began to shout at the same time. It was unorganized and they were acting like heathens; each attempting to shout over the next.
He growled long and low causing immediate quiet. Using his calm playfulness he began. “So…I know it’s been a while since you’ve had any order in your lives but we start today. It’s disrespectful to speak over each other and if you think I’m inclined to deal with shouting, I’m not.” He let
that sink in a moment before he continued. “Here’s how its gonna go. You’ll get in a line and give my beautiful mate,” he winked her way, “the name of any friend or family that is missing. It’s important to note that we are only compiling a list and no one will be getting in trouble. We will investigate properly before coming to conclusions. Also, after you give the information please continue with your assigned task as long as it is inside alpha house. Thanks, and I’m done.”
The people that had gathered simply stare at him in silence as if expecting something more. “Uh…go ahead. Move.”
No one moved an inch. Although, a brave older woman from the back of the room raised her hand so Blake nodded her way.”
“So, we won’t be punished? There will be an investigation and the person who wronged you will be held accountable.”
Blake sighed dramatically, isn’t that what he’d just said? “Yes, ma’am. That is how I was raised and that is how I will run this pack. I really wish you’d have a little faith. I’ve already completed the blood bond with most of you. You’ve seen what I intend to do, so why is this shocking to you?”
The old bat smiled and slapped her hand over her thigh. “Well alpha, I couldn’t be more tickled. Thank you for coming here and freeing us.”
Blake chuckled. “Well, you’re not free. You’re still a part of a pack. You still have responsibilities to your pack. Why would I punish those who are not at fault?”
Her grin was wide and toothless, her poor withered cheeks were wrinkling like a bloodhound, but her happiness was obvious. She attempted to go to one knee in front of him but he launched himself across the room to stop her causing a pinch in his wound. “There is no need to upset yourself. I know your arthritis is bad, especially in this weather.”
Addressing the crowd he spoke confidently. “I am aware of my arrival and the fact that some will be pleased and others not so much; I’m not going anywhere. I’ve found my mate and together we will lead this pack into the future with pride. I’m not saying we won’t punish people for wrongs done. What I’m saying is we will punish, only when needed and only if we can prove a wrong has been done. Think of your old alpha because that’s what I intend to bring back to you.”
There were murmurs around the room with a line forming around him. “Delilah will be taking the names of the missing pack members.”
The old woman put her hand out and her boney gnarled hand clutched his forearm with surprising strength. “They know. They wish to complete a blood oath to you. We, who have already done so, will approach your mate. Thank you alpha.”
Damn, he was tired. He’d completed numerous blood bonds already, plus getting impaled with an arrow and cleaning this nasty house; all for the sake of the pack. “Alright, peeps, who’s first?”
She was so proud of him. Delilah watched as he completed bonds with her pack; how his eyes were focused on every individual, making them feel special. She did notice his eyes were pinched at the edges as if he was exhausted or in pain; most likely a combination of the two. He had a small amount of blood that had seeped out from the dressing she’d placed and had gone through to his jeans.
She couldn’t imagine the pain he was going through, not to mention the emotional turmoil from filtering all the pack emotions during the blood bond. She couldn’t resist walking up to him and placing her hand on his shoulder.
When they made contact his mental shield deteriorated and she was slammed into his mind. The last two hours filled with physical pain and emotional baggage. Clutching his shoulder she held on and felt his absolute joy at finding and claiming her the last day, not to mention his intrigue at finding her in town and his automatic instincts to protect. The blessed family he has and the intense loss at not being around them for weeks coupled with a few abandonment issues due to his old alpha sending him here.
Holding tight she ran the gamut of his emotional storm for the last month. Understanding slammed into her and she wanted, no needed, to let him know she was here and appreciated his sacrifices. Clinching her hand on his shoulder she spoke to him as a mate, reveling in the fact she would be the only one able to do this, I’m here and I’ll loan you my strength when you need it.
His lips were so full and amazingly soft that she could only stare as they lifted into a beautiful beaming smile, directed at her. Her own lips lifted into a grin before she leaned over and kissed him gently. Well…it started out gentle but the heat and passion that was always simmering on the surface ignited and pretty soon hands were roaming.
“Knock it off.”
Hunter’s voice broke their sensual fog just enough that Delilah was able to pull back and gain some perspective, but unfortunately her mate began to growl and snap his teeth at his second in command. It was only then that she realized she was sitting in Blake’s lap with his straining erection against her soaking core.
She hopped up suddenly causing Blake’s attention to shift back to her. He shook his head and reached for her.
“Blake, the pack is all here, you have to wait. I’ve taken all the names of the missing people and we can begin discussions on potential suspects after you’re done with the blood oaths.”
There was a really annoying ringing that filled the air and Blake’s annoyance cleared. He looked at the screen and silenced the ring without answering.
“Who was that?”
“Jake and Shana, they’ve called a few times but I’ve been busy. My brothers keep calling too, it’s annoying”
She smirked at him. “Not too busy. You could have answered right now.”
Blake actually frowned. She’d never seen him anything other than playful and fun, but in the last few hours he’d growled at her father and almost taken her in front of the pack. He must be extremely worn out.
“I just don’t want to answer their never ending questions. I don’t answer to anyone anymore.”
Running a hand over his hair she comforted. “True, you don’t answer to anyone, my alpha. They’re worried about you, with good reason; you got stabbed and now shot with an arrow. That’s concerning.”
He rubbed his head into her palm comforting them both. “I know. I’ll call ‘em tomorrow. I have two more bonds to complete and then we need to clear the pack and go home.”
Sending him a come hither look she prompted. “I have a surprise for you.”
“I’m pretty close to the edge so if you keep lookin’ at me like that we might not make it home before I ravage you.” His interest was evident as he strained the front of his jeans.
“Alright, hurry up and finish though. It’s been far too long since I’ve had some alone time with my mate.”
Blood bonds complete, Blake fell into the only chair in the room. Normally he’d respect his elders and offer it to the elder pack members but he was exhausted. He was lucky Delilah felt his stress earlier and took some of the burden he was forced through the bond to take. He’d learned a great deal during the process and planned on having another pack meeting fairly soon, they needed to discuss some things.
Hunter’s booming voice came from behind him. “Ready to go alpha? You’re looking a bit rough around the edges. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you without a smile.”
“Just tired, no need to worry yourself. Did you escort everyone back to their homes?”
Rocking back on his heels he stuck his hands in his pockets. “Yep, sure did, just like you asked. I’d like to talk to you about somethin’ though.”
He felt her presence even before she spoke. “Not now daddy. He needs a good night rest and I intend to see that he gets it.”
“But-“
“Back off daddy. Look at the poor man.” Blake intentionally put on a pathetic looking frown. “He’s done more in one day than Tidus did all the years he was here. Plus, it takes a lot of energy to do the bondy thing. So…go away, find ma and the twig twins and take ‘em home.” She kissed his stubbled cheek, “Love you.”
Grumbling he kissed her back. “Fine, fine. See you tomorrow. Do you want me to
escort you guys home too?”
Another growl from Blake, damn, what was up with him? He knew he was being touchy. “I can get my mate home safely, thank you very much.”
Hands up palms out, Hunter backed away slowly. “No offense intended. Have a good night.”
Delilah took a soothing breath, placing her hands on her hips she rounded on her mate. “What the hell is wrong with you? That is the second time you’ve growled like a wild animal at my father.”
“He’s questioning my authority.”
Now overly exasperated she yelled. “No, he’s not. He is ensuring that his little girl makes it home safely after her mate was put through the ringer. If you can’t tell the difference between questioning your manhood and giving a helping hand you’re gonna have a really hard time with this pack. We live in the wilds of Alaska where people rely on the kindness of others in times of need. If we’re running thin on meat and someone takes down an elk or caribou than they share, not to say their better, but to ensure that the entire pack is cared for. It’s the way of the pack.”
Blowing out a long breath Blake appeared to be deep in thought before suddenly saying. “I’m sorry, of course, you’re right.”
Her shock must have shown on her face because he continued without prompt. “It’s been a long day and I feel…off. I’m not usually mean, ever. I don’t know what’s wrong with me.”
Alarm coursed through Delilah’s body, just as his phone began to ring again.
Pulling the phone from the back pocket of his jeans he gritted his teeth. He tossed his phone to her and she read it was Jake and Shana again.
Pushing the connect button she answered a bit hesitantly. “Hello?”
“Mama, somebody picked up. Hello?”
“Who is this?”
“Silly, it’s me, Trevor. It’s very nice to chat with ya’ Miss Flower.”
“Uh…you can call me Delilah. It’s nice talking to you too Trevor.”
There was a rustling and a little protest before a woman came on the line. “Blake, what’s going on? Your family has been ringing us for hours. You’re not answering you phone, Paul and Justin almost boarded a plane before Jake stopped them. Just because your new pack is messed up doesn’t mean you can mess with ours.”
Pack Law (Fated Mate) Page 8
