It is immensely reassuring to observe Bray’s enthusiasm for engaging with Melina and his patience when he encounters difficulties in comprehending her speech. Moreover, Ricky demonstrates a commendable acceptance of Melina, consistently practicing her signals and attempting to interact with her in my absence. Melina, more than anybody else, merits the opportunity to establish a family as well.
“What is the term for Daddy?” Bray enquires, raising his hands towards me.
I momentarily lose my train of thought upon realising my youngster is enquiring about how to sign “Dad” for me. Ricky observes with interest while my heart races in my ears as the realisation dawns. I am indeed a father.
Well you’re clearly not a Mom, Jimmy snickers.
Excluding Jimmy and striving to steady my trembling hands, I place the tip of my thumb to my forehead, with my fingers extended and slightly apart. Ricky and Bray both perform identically and echo my words.
“Father,” I state, tapping my forehead with my thumb several times. Maintaining the same position of my fingers and thumb, I lower my hand to my chin. “This is Mom.”
“Mother and Father,” Bray beams as he gestures to each of us, clearly delighted to have acquired new knowledge. “I am Bray!” “He indicates himself.”
Melina takes her turn, achieving a flawless strike and astonishing everyone. Bray applauds her, his enthusiasm infectious to everyone there. Following our ten rounds, Melina is proclaimed the victor, while I finish in last place.
Even the puppy surpassed you, Jimmy remarks, shaking his head at me.
I disregard him, content to share my inaugural bowling adventure with my family.
“Shall we engage in some games?” “Bray enquires as we remove our shoes.”
I lack the time to respond before he sprints for the Skee ball machines, with Ricky pursuing him.
“Hurry up, Gramps,” Jimmy murmurs as I pursue them, with Ricky reprimanding Bray for straying alone.
Her wrath dissipates as he signs the word ‘Sorry’ to her, and I feel a surge of pride and delight, recognising his desire to communicate himself not only verbally but also through gestures.
Ricky embraces our puppy, showering his face with kisses while articulating the hazards of him wandering off in such a manner.
What if an individual attempts to abduct you?Ricky enquires.
I urinate on them. Similar to Jadi,” Bray shrugs, while Jimmy erupts in laughter.
That is my dog! He articulates among wheezing.
Ricky expresses her disapproval towards me, reprimanding my wolf for exemplifying poor behaviour.
“Fleeing in such a manner creates the opportunity for someone to abduct you from me.” That is not your desire, is it?Ricky enquires.
“No, Mother, I wish to remain with you, Father, and Me-lina,” he weeps, embracing his mother.
Ricky embraces him, caressing his back affectionately and murmuring “I love you” in his ear. I see their intimate time, Ricky offering me a smile.
After completing his instruction, we procure lunch before Ricky guides us through the arcade, methodically instructing me in Skee Ball, air hockey, and various other games. We acquired multiple tickets, which we subsequently provided to Bray for the prize booth, where he chose an assortment of gadgets and small toys, including a set of Chinese finger traps, spring toys, and fidget spinners.
Bray’s eyelids get heavy with fatigue, prompting us to conclude our activities and return to River Moon. Upon our arrival at the Pack gates, the chief guard instructs us to proceed to the pack house.
“A visitor has arrived,” he notifies us. “Her Majesty requests a meeting with you in her office.”
An uneasy sensation descends to the depths of my abdomen. Is there a visitor? For my benefit? However, I am not acquainted with anyone in California!
Maintain composure and defer anxiety, Jimmy exhales.
His remarks provide scant solace; however, Ricky transports us home regardless.
“I will accompany you,” she states as we arrive at the Pack home. I’m ready to object but she shuts me up with a kiss on the lips. “I am not seeking authorization.”
I lack the opportunity to articulate my concerns when she exits the vehicle to retrieve a slumbering Bray in her embrace. She transfers him to Melina and grasps my hand.
“Let us proceed,” she murmurs, entwining our fingers. “Whoever it may be, we shall confront them united.”
She brings me into the house, where Gamma Andrew awaits in the entryway, while many men converse behind him, disregarding us. Based on Andrew’s expression, this visit is unlikely to be favourable.
“Who is present?” Ricky enquires as we ascend the steps.
“I am uncertain, but I have not witnessed Josie this irate since I affixed all of her belongings in her office with superglue, including her pens and sticky notes,” he shrugs, guiding us to the third level and halting directly in front of Josie’s office.
He opens the door, and my heart sinks as I observe Gamma Rocco, Korbin, and Jaxton seated opposite Josie, my half-brother’s eyes widening in astonishment. Rocco stands, his weary eyes filled with apprehension.
“Greetings, Jadi.”
Therefore
“Greetings, Jadi,” Gamma Rocco utters gently, eliciting a tumult of anxiety within me at his proximity.
How did he locate me? I ponder, blinking vigorously to confirm I am not in a dream.
That is the least of our concerns, Jimmy murmurs. What is that reprehensible brother doing here?
“Him?Jaxton questions Rocco, his eyes narrowing to slits. “Is that silent, criminal canine my sibling?” Is he the revered Moonlit Wolf that the King desires?”
