“Any justification for remaining at this time is a valid justification. Nolan is correct; she will return when she is prepared. I have not experienced significant amusement regarding her since our initial meeting.
“I hope so,” Ryder remarked regarding her reconciliation. “I must speak with Nathan about his conduct and ensure he refrains from approaching them in that manner again. Let us first debrief; it will allow him time to compose himself, as it appeared she provoked him significantly.” Subsequently, I shall pursue that individual.
He engaged in considerable shopping and instructed some of the omegas to take the items upstairs; however, he learnt that Brianna refused to allow any of them to unpack and organise it for her, insisting on doing it herself. Accustomed to self-sufficiency, no omega is available to assist a rogue.
Alpha Nathan occupied a chair in Ryder’s office, positioned across from his desk. Typically, he would recline nonchalantly on the couch while conversing with allied Alphas, attempting to maintain an informal atmosphere; however, he intended for Nathan to comprehend that this was a formal engagement, not a casual one, and it had not escaped the man’s notice that Ryder had been poised in his Alpha chair awaiting his arrival.
Nathan fixed his gaze on Ryder, raising an eyebrow as Ryder asserted that he would not confront Logan in that manner again, exuding an Alpha demeanour. Ryder recognised that the man would disapprove, yet this was not his territory, and he needed to comport himself appropriately, or Ryder would intervene on his behalf. He intended for this man to adhere to the rules and protocols within his pack. He had been rather indulgent towards him because of the size of his pack and the numerous warriors he consistently brought along when providing assistance; however, now aware that Brianna was his relative and of her wolf type, it was probable this was the underlying reason.
Nathan swiftly redirected the conversation to his preference, stating, “I have yet to address Logan’s conception with Brianna.” I must complete that before I depart. I will also await Annabella’s readiness to return home. She ought not to be alone outside. The pendant adorning her wolf’s neck reveals our lineage to those familiar with it.
Is that a matter of concern for me?Ryder scowled.
“Consistently.” My father and I have consistently dealt severely with anyone who attempts to abduct a Dieng female for their perverse desires. Death is imminent for them, as well as for those who have acquired the understanding of their true nature.
“To ensure their safety.” Ryder sighed. “How frequently are Dieng women abducted?”He needed to ascertain whether it would be necessary to assign a detail to Brianna if she insisted on exercising in the human realm.
Which he was aware she was.
“Rarely now, only twice during my tenure, and not merely attacked but annihilated them entirely on both occasions, serving as a stark warning to others.”
“The females?”Ryder felt compelled to enquire.
Nathan declined with a shake of his head. One individual survived and continues to be afflicted by nightmares and trauma years later; she is currently under the direct protection of the Elders. “The other,” he sighed, “did not survive; unfortunately, we reached her too late.”
“Is it Brianna?””
“Provided that the pendant remains concealed, away from this pack, and she refrains from wearing it visibly, I observed that she likely derives some comfort from its presence beneath her clothing.” It should be acceptable. Transforming into her wolf outside this pack is advised against unless it is imperative. That is my counsel.
Nathan was unaware that she was unable to shift at that moment, and potentially would never be able to, thus rendering it a concern he need not address at present, possibly deferring it to a later stage in their lives. One fewer concern to address at present. “Annabella may be the individual to discuss Logan’s conception with Brianna.” Ryder redirected the conversation to its initial subject. “I am sceptical that she will discuss that with you.”
“That is acceptable; Annabella will not deceive me regarding this matter.” She will likely attempt to reach you before I do, should she be dissatisfied with the response she receives.
Ryder arched an eyebrow at the man.
Nathan directed a smile towards him. “Do not be deceived by her carefree and cheerful demeanour, as it may mask her true nature.” Annabella is partially an Arctic Wolf, which likely explains her immediate recognition of Brianna’s friend. Annabella believed she was the sole survivor of her species.
“What?”“
“Do not provoke her; she possesses formidable claws and is our most esteemed Elder, likely connected not only to Brianna but also to that wolf.” Annabella can be quite challenging, particularly when she decides to be. The puppies adore her, however.
“Thus, in relation to Stella, she is Fades’ human counterpart.”
“It appears that way; only Annabella’s Wolf and Fade are aware of the distance of that relationship, and they are unlikely to discuss it, keeping it between themselves.” I heard she intends to manage Stella’s lineage; what is the woman’s origin?“
Denver. “I will have Luca present,” he gestured towards his Beta, who was leaning against the wall, attentively listening to the discussion but had not yet contributed a single comment.
“Transmit that file to you; it may assist in tracing her lineage.”
“I would appreciate that; it may be advisable to exclude Logan from the room during Annabella’s interrogation of Brianna.” I am quite forthright in my enquiries regarding my Dieng females, and I anticipate that Annabella will be similarly direct.
“Understood.” Ryder acknowledged, recognising the inevitability of the situation. He anticipated this outcome, having received prior warnings from Nathan; however, the absence of fear exhibited by her and Logan towards him should, he hoped, work to his advantage. “Do you after dinner?”“
Nathan affirmed, “Yes, I am confident that will suffice.” “Recall, Ryder, that both Annabella and I will prioritise her testimony over yours.”
“I am cognisant of that,” Ryder affirmed.
Although he remained unaware of Brianna’s thoughts regarding that night, as they had not conversed about it, her sentiments could vary significantly; she had rebuffed him immediately thereafter.
He internally sighed, realising he might soon engage in a lethal duel before the night concluded.
“For your information, Ryder.” There will be no proxy; your father cannot advocate on your behalf, despite your ignorance of the contract.
