“Laura,” she summons me, guiding me to a secluded room for a conversation.
She motions for me to sit at the little table, occupying the seat directly opposite me. Although she smiles, it is evident that Josie is troubled by something.
“I apologize,” she states, inhaling deeply to compose herself. “Today, while Jadi and Bray were playing in the woods, a pack of wolves infiltrated River Moon unnoticed, resulting in a confrontation with Bray.”
I spring to my feet immediately, my heart sinking. “Where is Bray?” I enquire, my voice quaking with the dread that my child may be injured or, worse, abducted.
Josie reassures me, “He is entirely well,” as she gently touches my palm. “Jadi was with him and ensured his safety. I believed you ought to be informed.”
“You assured me Bray was secure here!” I retort, withdrawing my hand in fury. “You claimed I could rely on you!”
“You are secure,” Josie responds, a hint of pain in her tone. “My men arrived promptly upon discovering the breach, but even in the absence of my guards, Jadi transformed and protected your pup. He ensured no one harmed him.”
“Am I merely expected to express gratitude that my child was unharmed this time?” I scoff. “What happens when another wolf casually enters River Moon unnoticed? Should I extend my gratitude to you then as well?”
Josie asserts, “Braylon was never in genuine peril. The wolves that visited are from our mother pack in France, Lune de Minuit. Alpha Jacque and his son, Benoit, arrived to discuss the location of their daughter, Adeline, and to enquire about their investments in Scoza Inc, our pack’s enterprise. Lune de Minuit possesses shares in the company and is dissatisfied with our recent investments concerning the Amethyst Lake women. They will remain here while Mark renegotiates the terms of their agreements. Adeline previously managed Lune de Minuit’s assets but vanished a few months ago after orchestrating an assault against Mark and me…”
“Indeed, you are effectively promoting the safety of your pack,” I utter with sarcasm.
Josie contends, “Adeline poses no threat. Our scouts are searching for her globally, and we have reason to suspect she is no longer in the United States. She possesses numerous connections in Europe and is likely concealing herself there.”
“What implications does this hold for Bray and me?” I enquire. “Are we genuinely secure in this location?”
“River Moon is currently the most secure location for Bray. He has Jadi to safeguard him, and the entire community is prepared to defend him if necessary,” Josie assures me. “I assure you, both you and Bray are now integral members of River Moon. We protect our own.”
“I find that difficult to accept,” I whisper to myself, remembering how alienated I felt inside my own pack despite contrary assertions.
“I cannot compel you to remain,” Josie exhales, her shoulders sagging in dismay. “However, Guinevere desired your presence for a purpose. If you have faith in her, as I believe you do, then you should also have confidence in her discernment and in us. Nevertheless, if you choose to depart, I will assist you in making alternative arrangements.”
I possess no further trust to extend; Blood Night has irrevocably sullied any faith I once held in werewolves. Departing from pack life has been my singular desire for the past four years. However, I cannot deceive myself. Bray will inevitably transform into a wolf, and despite my aversion to this reality, he will require another wolf to assist in his guidance.
The sole issue is identifying the wolf.
“Please consider this, Ricky,” Josie states with a smile as she stands. “This is a significant decision, and although I desire for you to remain, you are aware of what is best for you and Bray.”
—
My mind is overwhelmed with thoughts as I attempt to determine my course of action. Tiana desired my presence here, yet I am exceedingly anxious in this setting. Although these wolves appear benevolent and compassionate, I previously succumbed to the allure of my former pack’s kindness, only to discover their treachery. I cannot permit myself to trust any of them at this moment.
I return to the guest house, utterly fatigued from my internal conflict as I contemplate what to communicate to Jadi concerning the minor confrontation he had with the wolves. I had explicitly stated that his wolf form is prohibited near Bray, yet I also acknowledge that he transformed to safeguard my child, a fact I cannot overlook.
I enter the kitchen, where a modest dinner awaits. The house is silent, and I ascend the stairs to discover Jadi peacefully slumbering in the bedroom, with Braylon nestled on his stomach, already attired in pyjamas and accompanied by a small storybook.
The profound love that permeates my being as I observe my baby snuggling with the sole significant male figure in his life is inescapable. Bray has yet to enquire about his father, but I am aware that it is merely a matter of time before he recognises the absence of a vital presence in his life.
