by Sydney Addae
“This time… this time is for you and my grandchildren. You were right, I do love Randi, Raoul. I raised them as my own. That doesn’t mean they can crash my Christmas plans to adopt four pups as my grandkids or take Sarita to see the big mouse. I’ll see them some time later, Raoul understood.”
Eugene and Russell left within 15 minutes after they returned to Damian’s home. Raoul found her in the kitchen eating warmed over left-overs of plantains, yellow rice and baked chicken her dad brought for them.
“That was impressive,” he said grabbing a plate and placing a piece of chicken on it.
Asia nodded and continued eating.
“La Patron, I’ve heard of him most of my life, but that was the first time I’ve seen him, well not really see him but “saw” him operate. My knees buckled from the power in the room, it was amazing.”
She looked at him as she took a sip of water from the bottle. “He’s Alpha. Top Alpha,” she reminded him in case he’d forgotten.
“I know. He’s not a fairy tale character. That’s kind of where I’ve placed him in the past but not again. Never again. He rules fair but firm…Damian did a good job.”
His comment surprised her. “Yes he did.”
“Alpha’s sending us home to see Mum, which is great. But I’d like to return and work for him, Damian, if that’s alright. I haven’t asked him yet, he told me you were his boss so I thought to ask you first.”
“You plan to return to the states? Work as Damian’s what? Assistant?”
“Yes, if he’d allow it.” Their gazes clashed. “He’s much younger than me, but he’s steady. Not once did he waiver in his assignment. When he entered that office, I sensed he held the Alpha presence in the space regardless of who held it before. I’ve never… I’d like to learn to be independent in a healthy way. Make my own decisions, sink or swim. If I’ve learned anything in the past year, it’s that I need to be better equipped to make it on my own.”
Asia nodded, he was right. Plus if he could offer more information on the rebels it might help Damian down the line. “It’s fine with me. He has to staff an office for South Florida, maybe you can work for him there.”
“Thank you. I’ll mention it to him on the way to the airport.”
Now they were airborne, headed home. “Yes, Raoul understood.” She told her dad about the conversation she had with Raoul and his plans.
“Damian’s accepted him?” Barticus asked.
“I don’t know, we haven’t talked. He’s taking a nap.”
She looked across the aisle where Damian sat sprawled in the seat, his head against the window. Dark hair fell across his brow, his KnightForce tattoo displayed prominently on his upper arm. Pride for him rushed through her. It’d been his idea to allow the rebels to see La Patron again. For some of them it had been decades and they’d forgotten. Those who experienced his power recognized his authority as Alpha and would spread the word. It’d be harder for the rebels to recruit and stay in the shadows.
“Raoul hadn’t mentioned it to me, how do you feel about it? If Raoul comes, Randi will follow.”
“It’s up to Damian, I don’t care if they’re stateside as long as they stay out of trouble.”
Barticus nodded. They lapsed into silence, each caught up in their own thoughts. Asia couldn’t help but get excited about the holidays. This would be the first time her den would do anything major together, butterflies flittered in her belly. Mistress suggested she come up with something personal that her den would do every year. Perhaps they’d take a few moments to reflect on the year and say to each other what they’re thankful for before trading gifts. Mistress explained the holiday was based on the gift of the Christ to the world, so that would be keeping the spirit of the day. She’d run it by Hawke, but the more she thought about it, the more sure she became that they should honor the Goddess and the Christ by offering thanks before exchanging the first gift.
“Your mom wants to spend more time here with you and your den. One of the things we plan to do is purchase a home in town and keep it staffed. We’ve missed too much time with you already. You know how I feel about your past so I won’t dwell on that, but the future is ours to shape as we’d like. Your den plays a huge part of that so we need to be here, closer.”
Asia couldn’t wrap her mind around what he was saying. “Is that why you won’t head the European Council?” She knew from Niall, Hawke’s littermate, they wanted Barticus to be more involved but he refused.
He nodded. “At this point in my life nothing’s more important than my mate, my pup, and my den. Being in the states part time means submitting to La Patron, he and I discussed this already. He approved it and will accept my allegiance.” He waved his hand. “I’m not going into all of that. Making your mom happy, spending time with Sarita, Damian and La Patron’s pups… that’s icing.” He squeezed her hand and cleared his throat. “But getting to know you, spending time with the special, phenomenal woman you’ve become… that’s the reason I want to be here, regardless of the price.” He held her chin between his fingers. “You’re my shining star, Asia. My gift from the Goddess. I thank her every day that you survived, and thrived through… the worst times.” His eyes glistened as he continued staring into hers.
“This Christmas I’m celebrating you, your den.” He leaned forward and brushed a kiss across her brow. When he leaned back, he swiped his thumb across her cheek. She hadn’t realized tears trailed down her face.
“Daddy,” she whispered and leaned her cheek against his chest. The steady beat of his heart sent a wave of peace and love over her. For decades she’d wanted to know who she was, why she’d been left with the Liege. So many questions still required answers but for now, her heart and mind rested in the certainty that she’d always been loved.
Chapter 12
Jasmine, her mom and Amynta were on the main floor of the upscale store waiting as Amynta’s gifts were wrapped. She and Victoria’s gifts were beneath the tree or hidden from prying eyes but Amynta did some last minute shopping.
“Do you think Jacques will like this?” Victoria held up a sky blue wispy piece of fabric for their inspection.
“What is it?” Amynta asked reaching for the material.
“G-string.”
Amynta frowned as she held it by her fingertips. “Looks uncomfortable.”
Jasmine grinned at the considering look on her mama’s face at Amynta’s words.
“You’re right, it does. I want to find something nice, something sexy, something to stop him in his tracks when he walks in the room,” Victoria said looking at another rack of lingerie.
“Why wear anything at all?” Amynta asked. “Just wear the sheet, that’ll accomplish everything you want.”
Victoria’s brow rose. A smile blossomed on her face. “Amynta, I love you. That’s a fantastic idea. I know just the sheets, too.”
Amynta smiled and picked up a gold silk pajama top with shorts. “What about this for Asia?” She held it up for Jasmine’s inspection.
“I thought you bought Asia’s gift already,” Victoria said moving to another rack.
Amynta shrugged. “I like this for her, what do you think?” She asked Jasmine.
Jasmine fingered the soft material. “It’s good, short sleeves and shorts instead of long pants are a nice touch. I can see her wearing this.” The pajamas could serve as lounge wear and would be comfortable enough to sleep in.
“Thanks.” Amynta walked to the register, paid and added it to the small pile of gifts to be wrapped.
Jasmine looked at her watch. They’d been in the mall for three hours and as much as she enjoyed her mother’s company, she was ready to leave. Or return to the restaurant to rest her feet a bit while eating calamari and a glass of wine.
“What did you get Silas?” her mom asked.
“I commissioned a painting, well several paintings for him, had it framed. Diamond stud earrings and a coupon book.” She winked at her mom. Jasmine had taken several pictures the children
had given her through the school year, especially the ones with Silas and had them made into a collage. It came out perfect, she couldn’t wait to see his face when he unwrapped it. The children would be happy as well to see she held on to their masterpieces.
“That’s right, how’d I forget about the coupons,” Victoria said shaking her head.
“What? Coupons? What’s that about?” Amynta asked.
“Jasmine creates a small booklet which has different things, sexual things she’ll do for Silas. He can pull out a page or coupon and give it to her.”
Amynta’s eyes widened. “And you do it?”
Jasmine nodded, her cheeks warming a bit over the look of awe from Amynta.
“What kind of things?” Amynta asked.
“Things I know he likes and no you can’t see it. No one sees it but him, it’s his gift from me,” Jasmine said.
“But these are sexual?” Amynta stressed.
“Some are, mostly its things I know he likes. It’s specifically tailored for Silas, that’s what makes it fun. I pushed boundaries a little this year, but it’ll be good.” Her panties moistened at the thought of the spankings and bondage she’d added. They’d dabbled with spankings a little this past year but she’d like to explore more of it.
“Well that’s exciting,” Amynta said. “Maybe I’ll create a coupon book with things I’d like him to do for me. There a few things I’d like to try.” She looked at Jasmine. “Did you make the coupons on the computer or ordered it?”
“Computer.” Jasmine wasn’t going to offer assistance, she didn’t have time. Once they returned home she’d be busy over-seeing preparations for the celebration tomorrow.
“Good, thanks. I can do that tonight.” She hugged Jasmine. “You’re so smart.”
Unsure how to respond, Jasmine smiled and took a step back. “After they finish wrapping your packages, check to make sure you have all of them. Security will take everything to the car.”
“Where are you going?” Victoria asked.
“Back to the restaurant, I’m hungry. I’ll wait for you there. We only have one more hour before I need to be back.” She looked at her mom. “Okay, Mama?”
“Yes, I need to check on the fantastic four,” she said looking through a sale rack.
“Shouldn’t be much longer,” Amynta said after speaking with the clerk wrapping her packages.
Jasmine nodded and left the store. Several full-bloods and half-breeds dipped their heads in respect as she passed. She’d gotten over the uneasy feeling and accepted their respect with a smile. When she entered the restaurant, the hostess smiled and led her to a private area in the back where Jasmine normally ate. It was better than being gawked at by members of the Wolf Nation who’d watch her every move. The owner or manager always served them and offered interesting tidbits about the cuisine.
She ordered a bottle of wine, calamari and pulled pork nachos.
“Almost done?” Silas asked.
Smiling, Jasmine placed her foot in the chair across from her. “Yes. I’m in the restaurant taking a break.”
The manager showed Jasmine the bottle. She nodded. He opened it and poured a small taste in a glass.
Jasmine smelled it and then took a sip. “Mmmm, delightful.”
The manager bowed and left.
“Good?”
“Yes. How’re the kids?”
“In heaven. Danielle, Rose and Lilly had some kind of party with them. Cameron’s seven, Rose’s two, our four, Sarita, and Victoria’s four kept the staff busy while the twins and Cameron were off doing who knows what.”
“I think they’re Christmas shopping,” she said recalling a comment Tyrese made earlier and happy her daughters went through with the idea of having the impromptu event. Rose had thought to cancel when she learned Jasmine wouldn’t be there but after Danielle and Lilly convinced her they could do a decent job of keeping the kids entertained, she gave in.
Silas grunted.
Jasmine chuckled and took another sip, the conversation about the coupons at the forefront of her mind. “Remember when Sarita was missing and you pulled up my dress and spanked me in your office.”
“Yes, I do,” he said, his voice dropped an octave.
“I was thinking about that.”
“At the mall? What kind of stores do they have there?”
She laughed. The manager placed her food in front of her and left. Jasmine picked up a piece of calamari, dipped it in the spicy sauce and ate it. “Umm, so good.”
“I hope you’re talking about food,” Silas said.
“Of course, what else?”
“Back to your thoughts of my hand on your delectable ass.” His voice deepened again.
“Oh, nothing much, I just remembered how much I liked it. Well before we got into the argument.”
“I smelled your arousal, it was tempting to take it further.” He paused. “I’d like to explore more of that with you.”
Her grin widened and she sucked her finger, removing it with a popping sound.
“Hmm, was that a yes?”
She laughed. “I’m not sure, I don’t want you to get carried away, you’re much bigger and stronger than me. I could be sore for days.”
“Anything I do you can handle, you were made specifically for me.”
Jasmine rolled her eyes. “Of course, Wolfie.”
“Sweet Bitch, I would never hurt you or leave you sore in a way you couldn’t function. But I believe you’ll enjoy the sensations.”
She thought of Amynta’s remark and grinned. “I’d like to try some of that on you.”
“Spank…me?” His voice rose.
Jasmine smiled and took another sip of wine. “Yes, that would be sexy don’t you think?”
“I don’t see the appeal but I’m yours completely. Whatever you want, just be gentle.” He laughed.
Jasmine laughed and looked up as her Mama and Amynta entered the room.
“Please bring another bottle of whatever she’s drinking and one of every kind of appetizer,” Amynta said to the manager.
“Yes, Ma’am.” He left.
“Mama and Amynta’s here. We’re going to eat and then head home.”
“Are you waiting for Asia?”
“Will they land in time?”
“It’s possible. I’m sure she’ll contact you when they land.”
“She loves the margaritas here. I hope she gets here soon.”
“See you soon and tonight, I’ll remind you of this enlightening conversation. You keep me on my toes and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Love you.”
“Love you too, Wolfie.” She broke the connection and looked at her mother.
“The kids had a party after we left. Jacques took time off for himself,” Victoria said seeming relieved.
Jasmine nodded and realized Silas hadn’t said what he’d done that day. “Having 18 kids in the nursery and courtyard, that’s a party.”
“Especially when four are still in cribs,” Victoria said. “It’s good they’re all together having fun. Jacques and I needed a break.” She looked at Jasmine and placed her hand on top hers. “Thanks for this, it’s been great.”
Amynta nodded and took a sip of wine. “Best Christmas I’ve ever had. New friends, my daughter, her family and my mate… thank the Goddess for her kindness.”
Jasmine raised her glass.
Amynta and Victoria tapped it and then drank.
“Asia is trying to get here before we leave, that’s why I ordered all that food,” Amynta said, her gaze apologetic as if she’d done something wrong.
“Sounds like they’re having fun at home without us, we need time away to recharge, Asia included, so we’ll chill for a while,” Jasmine said, thinking of what Silas planned later.
“Thanks, I appreciate it,” Victoria said with feeling and poured a glass from a new bottle.
Chapter 13
“Mama, Mama, wake up!” Sarita said although it sounded as if she screamed the words. Asia rolled ont
o her side, her face plastered against Hawke’s chest as Sarita bounced on the bed. Her head throbbed and her mouth tasted…like something died.
“Your Mama got home from work late, let her rest some,” Hawke said. “Go wake up your brother.”
“Damian!” Sarita shrieked, jumped off the bed and ran out the room.
“That was evil, but thank you,” she murmured edging closer to his warmth.
Hawke chuckled. Her face absorbed his chest movement. “Don’t feel sorry for him. After they dropped you off at the mall, Damian, and Barticus came here. Silas and Angus came over and the three of them drank and told tall tales. It was funny in a way, Angus and Barticus had Damian hanging on their every word. Silas would add something every now and then. I had to call three times for more food and liquor.”
Asia leaned up on her elbow, her brow raised. “You didn’t drink? Tell stories?”
He tapped her nose. “The stories from my past or Damian’s are not anything to share at a fun event.”
She nodded and brushed a kiss against his chest.
“Cameron and the twins showed up 30 minutes later. That’s when things got really going. By seven, Lilly and Danielle had put the small kids to sleep. Jacques had taken his crew. I think just the oldest boy remained awake to witness a contest for the most creative drinks. Danielle out drank Rose and Lilly. I think Cameron had to carry her to the car while the pups walked alongside.” He chuckled. “Tyrone carried Rose to bed and then returned for his pups. Danielle stopped by here to sing Christmas carols with you. I don’t think they realized you ladies weren’t here.”
Asia shook her head and then stopped. “We closed the mall, I think.”
“You did, the restaurant stayed open late just for you.”
She frowned and then smiled. “It was fun. They waited for me.”
“I know. Mistress told La Patron, he told me. That’s what sparked the male get together here.”
“Did La Patron? Silas? Daddy? Any of them get drunk?”
