The Change (Fated Series: book1)
Chapter 45 - Perception

Nessa

Nessa felt Marcus’ grin fade the minute someone linked with him. She could feel the frustration growing through the mating bond and she had no doubt something big and important was being reported to him. His hands lost the grip on her sides and curled in fists, before he managed to compose himself. Alphas never showed any sign of emotion. They had to be unmovable like the mountains. Hard and emotionless Alphas were a symbolic rock that brought weres into packs and bound them together. Marcus’ showing any sign of irritation meant that something was terribly wrong.

He did try to downplay whatever was going on. He relaxed his features and even gave her a small smile, before he kissed her temple, slowly ushering her to stand up from his lap. He moved out off his seat and seated her in it, sliding his plate closer to her.

“You okay?” Nessa asked ignoring his silent command to finish off his breakfast.

“Rogues,” he explained with one word, lacing it with disgust. “I need to handle them and you need to finish breakfast. I’ll come pick you up for a late lunch, so you can re-educate me.”

He tried to keep things lighthearted but everyone knew what rogues brought.

Distraction.

“Stay safe,” Nessa returned his smile, while he quickly pecked her lips.

“I have to go,” Marcus told her reluctantly.

“Okay,” Nessa replied hesitantly, looking up to him. He didn’t want to leave her alone, while he went to resolve the problem at hand. That only proved that the rogue problem he so casually wanted to dismiss was serious and perhaps bigger than he led on. She took a deep breath and decided to make the decision easy for him. “I’ll be fine. Go and come back to me.”

“Stay out of trouble,” Marcus nodded but his eyes trailed towards his mother in a warning. Even though the words were supposed to be directed at Nessa, his eyes shot the undeniable warning aimed at his mother.

Nessa had to pinch herself to suppress the laughter that was pressing to burst out. Her mate was standing up for her and she liked it. Not that she necessary needed him to do, but it was nice to know he cared so much to actually slip into his protective stand against his own mother.

Marcus’ eyes then focused on Travis next, who had already shifted his attention to his Alpha. Marcus was obviously mind-linking with him to keep her under lock and key. She smiled. Her macho Alpha was so protective.

“You know what to do,” Marcus told Travis in conclusion to their mind-conversation. Travis wordlessly nodded and scooted closer to Nessa looking as grim as Marcus.

“I’ll stay with Travis, don’t worry, we’ll try not to miss you too much,” Nessa winked at Marcus, causing his otherwise pressed lips to curve in a smile. He placed his palm from her lower back to her nape and gave it a squeeze, only for Nessa to try to swat at his head. He released her after he placed a kiss on her cheek once again.

“Right!” Marcus then said and reluctantly let go of her and walked out with his father.

“Right,” Nessa said as soon as Marcus’ wide shoulders disappeared down the hall. She had to admit she really enjoyed watching his tall frame. Clapping her hands together, Nessa’s eyes focused on her father.

“You want something to eat? I can whip something real fast…”

Claire cringed as soon as Nessa began talking, which Nessa chose to ignore once again. The monster-in-law was definitely having a grunge against her. Nessa was beyond the woman’s pettiness and decided staying civil was a priority. She didn’t doubt Marcus would not be happy if Nes straightened his mother up. Luckily, she was not living in the Pack House, so any interaction with her would be limited. Or at least she hoped so. Nessa needed to confirm that with Travis. He would know what was wrong with that woman and where her lair was! Focusing her attention to her father seemed the safer response, so Nessa did just that. His father calmly sat against her, shaking his head no.

“Cup of tea would be just fine,” Frank replied.

Logan sat beside him.

“And for you, Alpha?” Nessa inquired, making him chuckle.

“Just Logan. Coffee would be great,” he replied.

Nessa nodded and Nessa made a tea and coffee.

Nessa wanted to ask many questions but choose to hide her enthusiasm in talking to the two werewolves.

She decided as long as her mom didn’t show up she could avoid the pop topic and play down the ring on her finger.

She doubted her father wanted to discuss grandkids with the in-laws presence. That would by itself be mortifying.

Frank Hensfeld was a figure of authority not only for the Rover Grove pack. He was Nessa’s personal hero, who she admired the most for the decisions he had made in his life. After all, who would not love the romantic notion of her father chasing down her mother and romanticizing her into settling down with him, having two pups and sharing their life together? He was the male figure she had always compared males to. Not even the late Alpha Grey had held more respect and authority for her.

Her father was collected, carrying and loving.

“So how is live treating you here, kiddo?” Her father asked.

“Good-ish,” Nessa grinned in reply and then continued on complaining. “Coffee sucks major time, so Travis had been spoiling me with Starbucks.” Nessa giggled as Travis blushed as her father nodded his approval. As she made moved around the kitchen, she pulled up cookies and served Logan’s coffee. “We are still waiting for the good coffee to arrive.”

“From one coffee aficionado to another, Starbucks is average at best,” Logan started.

“Consistently average,” Nessa agreed. “I’ll make you a proper cup once my coffee arrives. It’s not only about the beans but the coffees machine, too.”

“I am looking forward to it,” Logan replied.

“It’s a date,” Nessa winked at him then quickly turned to her dad. “It’s been pretty eventful stay. Sometimes I really wish for some peace and quiet!” Her father nodded which urged her to continue talking. “Oh, and don’t get me started on this ridiculous system Marcus and the Pack has for coming up with short or pet names. It’s like a secret society and inner jokes that often times I don’t get. I swear they have no common sense! Other than that I can’t complain. They are a fun bunch!”

“Thanks, Nes,” he finally replied tasting his tea.

“No worries, pa’. It feels good to do something around here,” Nessa replied sipping her own hot chocolate. Her father’s eyes landed on her. “I guess you can say, I haven’t found my place yet. You know how everyone has their own thing in the pack? Well, I feel like I am on a holiday. I have a local guide, so I wouldn’t get myself into too much trouble.” Nessa giggled and winked at Travis who continued eating his breakfast. “I still haven’t figured out how he can seem so focused on his breakfast while he is fully aware of all his surroundings.”

“Training,” Travis answered, while her father smiled and nodded again. Nessa could see the silent exchange but she couldn’t put her finger on it. Travis looked smug and her father looked satisfied. She rolled her eyes. Males and training – that was one thing that she couldn’t understand no matter how much she tried.

“Your mate has taken pride into training his pack. I have no doubt Travis can handle any situation. How many guards did he give you?” Frank questioned.

“He didn’t give me anybody. Travis sticks around because I can cook. Apparently that’s a huge selling point,” Nessa teased Travis, who chuckled.

“You were given two guards,” Travis replied for her and as Nessa’s expression lit up, he continued before she could put in a word. “Don’t misinterpret the word “given”. Guards are not your regular bodyguards that you are currently thinking about running as errand boy. True, you are our Luna, but also our Charge, which gives us a certain leverage to do what’s best for your safety even if that contradicts your wishes. After all, we only answer to the Alpha.”

“But you are my Guard, right?” Nessa asked.

“Eamon and I share your custody,” Travis teased.

“I guess it’s good that you are not a pain in the butt. Who is Eamon?” Nessa asked Travis.

“He is among our strongest Enforcers.”

“I can’t put a face to the name,” Nessa complained.

“And I feel neglected…” Travis continued, and his eyes shifted to Claire for a second. Nessa understood his gentle reminder they were not alone and probably there was a story to that Eamon that Travis didn’t feel comfortable sharing in front of Claire and Logan. Interesting. Nessa had to grill Travis for the answers as soon as they were alone. She had no doubt he would tell her. He was loyal to her, even if his blunt replies often came out as borderline rude. She appreciated him as a friend. Guard or not, she knew she could count on him. Maybe even use her cooking to persuade him to spill any story.

“I saw Joel,” her father’s voice came rescuing the conversation from the uncomfortable silence. His sudden statement drew Nessa’s attention to him. “Did he manage to talk to you?”

“Not today. What has he been telling you?” Nessa inquired.

“I would like to think everything,” Frank chuckled and Nessa rolled her eyes at him. Being a Lead Interrogator for Pack Law surely had made him smug. His sense of humor had focused on the irony of it. Of course, Joel would be reporting to him! But Nessa doubted she would be part of any official report.

“You’ve been a busy pup, giving justice left and right!” Her father was more than amused. On second thought, Joel must have reported the punch she made against Brandon and the pissing match she had with Alpha Stevens.

“Which of my victims do you refer to?” Nessa winked at her father, who chuckled, shaking his head.

“Victims?” Logan asked.

“I took on two Alphas: one with fist and one with words,” Nessa replied.

“I missed all the excitement,” Logan mumbled.

“Ned has been good influence on you. You shifted?” Frank asked.

Nessa groaned. S~ᴇaʀᴄh the (ꜰind)ɴʘvel.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

“The mutt shifted to tackle Marcus’s wolf! I swear his face was flat out priceless when she knocked him down,” Nessa giggled at the memory.

“Vanessa!” Claire growled and Nes narrowed her eyes at her. “It’s not becoming of the future Blackwood Luna to speak like that about her Alpha.”

“Marcus was very proud with a hint of smug I can take down a Beta with proper training,” Nessa retorted right away without thinking. Claire has quickly become the monster-in-law she did not want to deal with. It didn’t matter if Claire was acting in Marcus’ best interest in mind. Nessa simply couldn’t pass the hidden insult that her mating to Marcus was not acknowledged by his mother. Before Claire had time to process her reply, Nessa quickly explained “I am the Luna of this pack and I have to be as badass as my Alpha.”

“Nes, be respectful” Frank requested, only for Nessa to take a deep breath and calm herself down.

“You’re right”, Nessa replied and then smiled at Claire and told her in a much calmer voice. “I am mated to your son. We didn’t ask for permission or approval. We aren’t your regular pups. We are grown-ups and we’re happy together. So whether you choose to approve of our mating or not that’s your prerogative, but it won’t make us any less mated to each other.”

“Logan dear, would you mind taking Travis and Framk out? Nessa and I need to have a girl talk,” Claire sweetly asked Logan who cautiously looked at Nessa then at Frank who nodded

Nessa half suspected her dad smelled the drama brewing and tried to make a quick getaway. So much for parental help! Travis, on the other hand, stayed anchored in his seat until Nessa nodded to him. She suspected Claire had a lecture on mating Nessa had to hear in order for the monster-in-law to finally accept her. Nessa didn’t need Travis to witness the conversation.

Claire was clearly fuming even more after she detected the exchange between the two. The way that Travis put things about Guards, it made sense for him to worry about Nessa and to be concerned about her being alone with an angry she-wolf of station, who had experience on her side. Moreover, Travis was more than aware how weak her wolf was after the “sabbatical” the mutt had taken. Dismissing him was probably not such a good idea after all. But Claire would not attack her physically. No, Nessa was sure Claire was going to use words as a weapon of choice.

As soon as they were alone in the kitchen, Claire didn’t disappoint and started lecturing Nessa.

“You have mated with Marcus, but how much of yourself have you given to him to call yourself the Luna of this pack? You might have marked him, but have you stopped to think of what it entails? You are running around, intoxicated by his attention and the power that you have over him, but you never stop to consider how your behavior reflects on him! You disrespect him, joke about the way he runs things. Frank might be your father but your loyalties should lie with this pack. A proper Luna would never question her Alpha’s decision, mock his rule, or complain about things that she can personally change. A proper Luna projects the image of harmony, unity and the prosperity from within a pack. You do neither. You insult, mock and dismiss everything here! If we are so bad, why do you stay here? Go home! I know you are still keeping your little apartment and had only moved in because of the Rogue attacks!”

“I moved in because my Alpha demanded it. I am staying because I am with Marcus. Whether or not I keep my apartment is irrelevant.”

“Irrelevant? Have you stopped to consider how it looks from the side? You are keeping your apartment, your space and that is interpreted as you holding back and not letting go of your past, a past that is very much alive unlike Marcus’,” Claire rebutted.

“Is that what’s bothering you? That my True mate is alive and Emma is not? My True mate burned whatever relationship we had a very long time ago. I am never getting back with him. Marcus is my everything,” Nessa assured her.

“As much as I would like to have been consulted about this Choice Mating, I wasn’t. Contrary on what you might think of me, I don’t have any grunge against you. But I will speak up for the good of this pack when I feel that their Luna is mocking her Alpha, disrespecting him left and right in front of both pack and strangers. I will not stand idly at the side and see you hurt him because you are immature to actually see comprehend what he has offered or given to you. And what have you given him? Your body? We both know, he could do so much better. Your support? Your constantly bicker with him. Your love? You buy him condoms? Yes, I’ve heard about it.”

“My relationship with Marcus is different than yours with Logan. Mates nowadays actually discuss things instead of blindly following tradition,” Nessa tried to reason with her.

“I am trying to make you understand that your actions are looked under a microscope. Your relationship with him is as public as it gets. The pack looks up to you both. You are a role model. You’re stubborn and not afraid of voicing out your opinion, which is good when applied in moderate amounts. But there is nothing moderate about you, is there? You swing full force, talk and think later. You are too inpatient. You carry your passion and you are very vocal about it. I’ve done my homework on you. I know you. I used to be you. That is why I am taking my time to make you understand that your actions, your relationship with Marcus would always reflect on his ability as an Alpha. If he cannot keep him Choice Mate in line, why would Rogues fear him and stay out of pack’s territory? It boils down to raw power, respect and masculinity when it comes to dealing with Rogues. Marcus bowling down to you will only invite trouble. If he doesn’t have a pup, his rule will be questioned. If he doesn’t have an Heir, the Pack is unstable!”

“You make it sound that Alpha mates are only good for breading!”

“Neither Marcus, nor you are pups. You should be able to come to the conclusion yourself that raising a pup with him is the ultimate show of your unity to this pack. Unlike yours, Marcus’ Fate Mate is dead. What would keep you from leaving if things get rough? Both the pack and Marcus need stability and you are not acting your age or your station. As you pointed out you’re the Luna of the Blackwood Pack so act like it!”

“We are two consenting adults who are working on their relationship. Has it been rocky? Yes. Would it get better? Definitely. We are sorting things out. Sure, it has taken us some time to figure out what exactly we are to each other, but who can blame us? We are Choice Mates. We need the time to settle in a relationship. Moreover, every single day we are choosing to be together. We don’t rely entirely on the nature’s pull. In my book, that makes us stronger. Pups will come in time and Rogues are only getting themselves killed and fortifying the reputation that Marcus has. Marcus is mending bridges with other packs and Pack Law is finally backing off his back. I’d say we are doing just fine considering we are just getting used to each other. I believe with that, I have addressed all of your concerns. I’d really appreciate it if you back off my relationship with your son. We are a newly mated couple and we are bound to be rash. Don’t challenge me to do something rash that both you and I will be sorry about.”

Instead of the murderous glare that Nessa expected out of Claire, she actually cracked a smile. That was so not the reaction that Nessa anticipated. Nessa felt uncomfortable but still kept her eyes narrowed at her, allowing her time to say something.

“Now, you’re the Luna of the Blackwood Pack!” Claire said and then chuckled to herself, wiping some of the moisture that had gathered at the corner of her eyes. “I see why Marcus marked you. You have a spirit,” Claire shook her head and smiled warmly at Nessa who dared her to continue. Claire leisurely took a seat and served herself some coffee. “You’d be good for him.”

“So now you magically approve of me?” Nessa huffed in disbelieve.

“I will not necessary involve magic in this matter, but yes. You stood your ground against me without resolving to crying or whining or letting Marcus fight your fight. I like that. I still have my concerns when it comes to the Pack, but I think your mating to Marcus will make him stronger, more balanced. Do me a favor though, tell him to groom! He already has the reputation of being furious. His unkempt beard and wavy hear would only suggest he is more of a brute than he is. I don’t want to receive a call early in the morning that the Alpha is killing the Luna again,” Claire teased Nessa. “Yes, the pack is still loyal to me and I’ve been informed about your relationship. I got involved only when it was clear you two were obviously lacking some common sense when it comes to letting the pack witness all of your relationship! Now, you should probably go and reassure Travis, you are still alive, before he deems necessary to involve Marcus in our little conversation here.”

And with that Claire dismissed Vanessa from her presence. Nessa kept staring after the woman who had said her peace and swiftly left for the backyard without a care in the world. Nessa’s mind was working overtime. It has really been an eye opening experience to talk with her and see how the Alpha pair relationship reflected on the pack. Nessa had to admit she had never seen it that way. It has always been a relationship between Marcus, as bipolar as he had been, and her. Had she known he was an Alpha from the start, she might have considered things differently and thought about the pack. Even though that the conversation with her mate’s mother hasn’t gone as friendly as she would have liked it, she couldn’t help but feel relieved. At least Claire did not hate her. She had even gone so far as slightly approving her towards the end? Nessa sighed and decided to ponder on the conversation later.

Something that her father hinted kept playing on her mind “I talked with Joel”. There was something more hidden behind that and she was about to find out!

As soon as Nessa walked into the hallway, Travis fell in step with her, his eyes giving her a once over.

“I’m fine.”

“For what it was worth, I think it takes balls to disagree with the Alpha and nobody will think him weak if he lets you call a shot or two. After all a wolf would do anything for his mate, but that doesn’t mean that others will get away with such shit!” Travis told her.

“Is agreeing with me in your job description?” Nessa asked.

“You wish,” Travis chuckled.

“That’s more like it,” Nessa giggled. “Oh, what was the deal with Eamon that you didn’t want to discuss in front of them?”

“You noticed?” Travis said proudly and then continued. “He is from Emma’s original Guard Unit.”

Nessa abruptly stopped in the middle of the stairwell, gaping at him.

“He was able to pull through his wounds and tell the gruesome tell of how the ambush went down. It was a blood bath. After he recuperated, the Alpha made him the Combat Master here, ensuring that Eamon’s mate spends time with him. When the Alpha claimed you, you technically became his Charge.”

“So how come he is not around?” Nessa inquired.

“Because I am here,” Travis replied and at her confused face, begun to explain. “You see, you have a primary guard who is constantly within reach. Since Eamon’s mate Janis is expecting, he couldn’t be your Primary Guard. The Beta suggested me as your Primary, since I get along with you. Apparently, your approval of me got me this position, compensating for my lack of experience or a mate.” Travis grinned at her.

“I thought Marcus will be a possessive caveman when it comes to my 24h guard,” Nessa shook her head in disbelieve.

“24/7 guard,” Travis corrected her and then continued. “It was surely not an easy decision. There is a certain balance that a mated Guard would bring but also it would not irk the wolf within that your mate is spending so much time with another male. However, there would be a conflict for such a Guard – his primary concern will be defending his own mate. It’s natural. I don’t have such attachment… yet.” Travis shrugged.

“So are you happy to be stuck with me? I am constantly getting into trouble.”

“You get into trouble simply because you are not used to living with a proper pack system. You’re free spirited. It’s entertaining to see you in action. You’re outspoken and badass when you think about it. Plus you cook. In my book that’s worth any trouble you can get yourself in,” Travis replied.

“So I provide entertainment and home-cooked food.”

“Joke aside, being your Primary Guard is quite a prestigious position and I would be a fool not to be happy about it. It’s like being an unofficial Beta to the Luna. I answer to the Alpha himself! I feel important, not just a regular Enforcer whose life is expendable. Not that I won’t die for you, but you know,” Travis replied.

“You love me,” Nessa winked at him, while shoving her shoulder into his. His alarmed face, made her chuckle.

“Joking with things like that surely can get a wolf killed,” Travis warned her.

“Marcus knows I love pestering my Guard,” Nessa giggled as Travis shook his head at her and changed the topic. “Where are we going?”

“I’m going to see Joel. Something is not right,” Nessa replied and continued walking up the stairs. She could feel it in her gut that something was very, very bad.

As soon as she reached the landing, she heard Joel’s voice roar, “GET OUT.”

She quickened her step only to see Alexander’s retreating figure from the temporal Pack Law Head office in Blackwood. Nessa looked at her brother who chuckled at himself, shaking his head at the direction of the door. Even with the soundproofing Marcus had done with all the rooms in the Pack House, she could tell that Joel was growing at something or someone. Apparently that didn’t seem to faze Alexander who all but cheerfully greeted her.

“Hey, Ness,” he reached out to hug her, only for Ness to step away from him.

“What did you do?” She asked skeptically.

“Do I have to do something to want to hug my baby sister?” Alex asked Travis smugly. Travis chose to ignore the question. Nessa was not going to fall for her brother’s charm and soon enough Alex continued. “When are you going to forgive my temporal lapse of judgment with Brandon?”

“I’m not angry at you. You’re acting suspicious,” Nessa told him.

“Oh, because of Joel?” Alex asked her confused, pointing the closed door over his shoulder. “You know there’s only one person who can get him riled up… And nope, it’s not you.”

“Kat?”

“The school girl just schooled a Battalion Commander! Impressive, right?” Alex chuckled and at Nessa’s confused face, Alex continued. “A couple of days ago he sent her a package. The usual junk he sends her every once in a while. Anyways, he just got a package from her and it doesn’t look like Kat took his last gift well.”

“And you are laughing at him? What’s wrong with you, Alex?” Nessa pushed past Alex and knocked on the door before she slung it open. Joel growled at her from his chair, his furious eyes landing on her. Ness had to admit this had to be one of the most reckless ideas that she had had in a long time. Obviously Joel was pissed and trying to calm him down, instead of waiting for his anger to subside, might have been a plain old stupid. What could she do now? She bit down her teeth, to stop them from grinding as her fear spiked.

Immediately, Travis stepped closer to her side, reassuring her she was not alone. On the other hand, Joel must have smelled the fear on her as he closed his eyes, squeezing the bridge of his nose trying to calm down.

Nessa touched Travis’ arm in a silent attempt to reassure him she’d be fine on her own. Travis shook his head, clearly disagreeing with her on the matter.

“I’ll be right back,” Nessa smiled at Travis just before she shut the door under his nose. She would deal with her pissed off Guard later on.

As she made her way inside the room, Joel snarled, “We created a monster!”

A medium sized shipping box was slid over the polished wooden desk towards Nessa, who eagerly stepped in and sat on the leather chair in front of the desk, taking the box in her lap.

“There’s nothing dead inside, right?” Nessa cautiously asked just before she opened the lid. She had to blame Alex for the caution in her voice. She definitely could not deal with dead fluffy animals and Alex had all but presented her with numerous rabbit’s foots fresh after his hunt. Joel narrowed his eyes at her as she continued to blabber. “Just saying that if it’s a dead fluffy creature, rabbit, cat or puppy, I’m going to freak out. Needless to say Marcus is already pissed off about the rogue situation and he wouldn’t appreciate the worry…”

Just as she was talking, she opened the box and froze. There were several photos in the box, a zip-lock bag and a pink cupcake post it note that she read aloud.

“Tit for tat, xoxo Kitty Kat.”

On closer inspection, Nessa managed to make out the black lace that was in the zip-lock bag. Kat had indeed outdone her attempt to help Joel seduce her, if she had sent what Nessa suspected she did. Carefully lifting the zip-lock bag with only two fingers, she said: “Let me guess her soaked undies?” Joel growled and nodded his head at her. “Damn, she’s good!” Nessa said in owe.

“I shifted,” Joel regrettably admitted and looked at her and continued. “Alex had to silver me to help me regain control.”

Nessa giggled and tried to hide it as a cough, but instead it sounded like a snort.

“It’s a very serious matter, Vanessa, and you are just as responsible for it as me.”

“You’re welcome!” Nessa giggled openly and at his cold glare she explained. “She is steaming for you, silly! It takes guts to pull this off! The way I see it, she wants you just as bad as you want her, so my suggestion is: go for it – after all she’s your mate!”

“You make it sound like the mating is the most self-explanatory solution to any issue, while we both know it will pose even more problems. I don’t trust myself around her,” Joel confessed.

“She’s what eighteen?” Nessa wondered loudly, looking through the photos once again. Kat definitely had lots of friends, judging by the many different faces in the photos with her.

“Nineteen,” Joel corrected her.

“That’s old enough, Joel! While it’s really admirable you made her a promise, I don’t think either of you should wait for it. Maybe it did make sense to reassure an eleven year old that you are going to wait for her ten years before you claim her, I am sure the teenager and her own wolf are currently pissed off at your restraint. After all, now she’s a beautiful young woman, not a pup!” Nessa told him gently.

“You didn’t hear me, I want her but I don’t trust myself to be around her without doing something stupid that will make her hate or fear me. More importantly, I don’t want her first time to be with my wolf! I know he’d try to take over as soon as I see her. That’s why I have been avoiding meeting her in person for years! I am not sure how to control him around her,” Joel confessed.

“You’ve deprived yourself and your wolf of her attention and affection. Work your control up to the point where you can smell her arousal without shifting and losing it, then you’d be fine when you see her in person. Plus you’re her mate. She has to know that no matter how intimidating or pissed off you might be, she’s the only person excluded from your wrath.”

“Personal experience?” Joel teased her.

“You have seen how moody Marcus can be. He might be threatening to others, but I only acknowledge that he is pissed off and my reaction is to try to take his mind off things, not run away from him…” Nessa continued. “It’s all about controlling the narrative...” Nessa winked at him.

“I can’t do that with all the shit that’s going on,” Joel told her honestly.

“Fine, start then with something really small…. Call her every day and talk to her …in person. No more voice messages. If she lets it go to voice message, tell her to call you back and hang up,” Nessa told him and then smiled encouragingly to him. “You’d be fine,” she softly dismissed any of his concerns.

“Jon arrived in Kincaid’s Residence. He said that the stupid oaf doesn’t take him seriously. Do you have any idea how my second in Command acquired such an elegant expression?” Joel asked her.

“Exquisite expression, reserved for stubborn oafs,” Nessa laughed and then asked. “He’s doing fine?”

“Yes, considering. You missed his call as you were busy with your in-laws. Aunt Terry said they are quite a pair,” Joel asked stirring the conversation to topics that Nessa didn’t want to discuss.

“Oh, please, don’t remind me,” Nessa said and buried her face in her hands. “It was so embarrassing.”

“Claire is … well, was the acting Luna, so it’s understandable for her to want to protect what’s hers – the pack and her son, who has been through hell with his first mating!” Joel tried to explain to her.

“Oh, we had a “girl talk”. She thinks Marcus can get a better lay, which doesn’t talk back and ridicule her Alpha mate. Oh, and one that is willing to breed pups coz apparently that’s the only thing that mates are for! Don’t get me started on her tantrum about my apartment…. So much unnecessary drama!” Nessa recapped.

“She got to you. Maybe it is for the best. You can see her point of view, right? She wants to make sure her son is taken care of and that he is not hurt. It’s admirable she had the guts to go toe to toe with you especially after Marcus showed his favoritism to you,” Nessa’s eyebrows rose at that. “I am the Pack Law here. Of course, I know everything that’s going on within miles. I was meaning to talk to you about the apartment. You should get rid of it. It doesn’t send out the message that you are invested into the pack.”

“If you must know, Marcus bought the whole building so my lease is void. I always imagined moving in with my mate to be more of a step that this… I mean I know we are together, but it would have been nice to be asked to move in with him. Not that he could technically ask me, since we have so many people in the Pack House, that having a move in truck here is the last thing we need.” Nessa replied and looked at Joel who nodded.

“I haven’t thought the logistics of having your stuff shipped here with all of us here. You are right, but you also see how it looks bad for your stuff to be over there?”

“I know. That’s why I wanted to bring more things here and resolve the bills earlier…. I can’t control what people think. I know as the Luna I should care about what others see and interpret as my motives, but I really don’t give a damn about it. I know I am selfish but I sometimes wish they could all just back the hell off and let us be however we want to be with each other. It’s still very disturbing that you had actually been briefed in on everything by someone other than me,” Nessa pointed out.

“It’s my job to notice everything about the Alphas in my territory. Happy Alphas equals peaceful territory. Pups do the same magic to settle down things,” Joel winked at her suggestively.

“No pressure,” Nessa mumbled.

“It’s in Alpha’s nature to want to reproduce, to make sure that the Pack is taken care of. It’s the ultimate legacy. Besides, I am sure you know by now that sex is very gratifying. Pup-making is supposed to surpass it since you’re invested into the relationship already,” Joel teased her.

“What you just said is disturbing on so many levels that I will chose to ignore it.” Nessa informed him.

“Anyways, I see I covered the topics Claire made. I just want you to know that I rely on you to keep Ned happy and in line with Pack Law. I don’t need to be briefed on the details,” Joel winked at her and Nessa threw the zip-lock bag at his face. He swiftly caught it and then sobered up. “Emma being a Delta made Claire step and handle Pack business. I can see how hard it would be for her to lose that control and influence to the new Luna. After all it’s no secret that Claire never approved of Emma for Ned. Even Ned went as far as to assign five Guards!”

“I was going to complain that I had two, but now I realize two is a sign of trust,” Nessa rolled her eyes thinking about how possessive Marcus was. “Did you know that Eamon, the only surviving guard from Emma’s attack is mine, too?”

“I thought that was a rumor,” Joel seriously replied and then explained. “Travis is your guard and I would have thought maybe Sebastian will be tasked for it.”

“Who is Sebastian?”

“The Lead tracker in Blackwood. I personally think that a combination between a Tracker and Enforcer make the perfect Guard Team,” Joel replied and Nessa connected the dots. He must have put a Tracker and Enforcer onto Kat to keep her safe.

“You know she’s going to be pissed off when she finds out,” Nessa told him.

“If she finds out,” Joel corrected her.

“Oh, you are so adorable thinking she wouldn’t find out. I only wish I am there to see how she is going to have your hide,” Nessa giggled at him.

“At least her parents would not walk in on us,” Joel retorted.

“Touché,” Nessa said, cheeks flushing and Joel chuckled at her.

“And I thought I had a bad day!”

“Don’t get me started!” Nessa shook her head.

“I wouldn’t,” Joel smiled and then sighed. “Hey, Ness, who would you ask if you wanted to know more about Emma? Cameron?”

“Travis is more forthcoming. Why?” Nessa asked and Joel shrugged.

“I am working on a theory. You know I enjoy going through all the details with a fine comb before I let things rest,” Joel evasively replied.

“Don’t be coy with me. You want to question Travis and legally Pack Law cannot do that without a proper cause or permission by the Alpha. What’s up?” Nessa asked scooting over to the edge of her chair.

“I am busted by a very perspicacious Luna. So much for my sway and good looks,” Joel chuckled and then continued to explain. “The assassination doesn’t make any sense. I’m inclined to believe Stevens had nothing to do with it. The evidence against his pack is circumstantial at best. That is one of the reasons why Pack Law came here to make sure that Ned does not retaliate against Stevens.”

“Hasn’t this been a very eventful month for everyone?”

“For some more than others,” Joel smiled at her, causing Nessa to blush. “My point here is that by the time of the rogue attack that killed Emma, Ned had been barely an Alpha for a couple of months. Time that is not enough for him to successfully manage to upset someone to the point where they would sanction retaliation such as an attempt on the life of his mate. I understand the temptation for Jon to rush in and blame Pablo for everything, but I doubt that the Blackwood Alpha Pair was in anyone’s hit list. They weren’t key figures politically or influentially. Because of what happened, Ned is now considered influential, but then he was a nobody. It doesn’t make any sense. You don’t groom an enemy and give them a vendetta against you. Pablo is smarter than this. If Ned is not the reason, and I am sure of it since Pack Law has not been informed about any conflict with Alpha Ned prior to the brutal murder of his mate, then my question is was that a pure accident or was it instigated purely by something that Emma personally had been involved?”

“I want to be present when you talk with Travis,” Nessa said.

“I knew I could count on you, Luna,” Joel nodded in respect and stood up to invite Travis in.

As soon as Travis entered, he swiftly managed to make his way to her side. He didn’t seem worried, but Nessa knew that he was alert. After checking her for visible wounds, his whole attention shifted to Joel, who casually sat back in his chair behind the desk and idly motioned her to inform Travis. Nessa patted the chair next to her and Travis took his time to sit down.

“Travis, Joel has some questions about Emma that I couldn’t answer. I was wondering if you could help?” Nessa asked him.

“We are not obligated to answer any questions of Pack Law Command not pertaining to their official agenda,” Travis informed her. It was remarkable how his carefree behavior was substituted with a reserved, watchful one when Joel was in the room.

“I owe Joel for helping through my rejection and I would like to help him as it is also beneficial for Marcus and the pack to have this matter sorted out.” Nessa started and then offered. “If his questions are too intrusive in our Pack’s business, you can tell him to go fish.”

“Nes, that’s highly inappropriate,” Travis told her. Joel chuckled in response.

“He’s right you know. I am your friend, but also an important and influential person, even if you choose to see me as your friend than a Pack Law representative,” Joel informed Nessa.

“Shush… I am too curious about your theory. Please, Travis, I won’t be able to sleep tonight if I don’t know,” Nessa began.

“I am sure that the Alpha would not mind it one bit,” Travis cheekily replied, to which Nessa punched his arm. “Careful, you might hurt yourself. That is not a proper way to throw a punch. Remind me that I should teach you. Maybe even train with you.”

“Good luck with that. Though you might find it easy since her eyes will not be wondering,” Joel mumbled loud enough for Travis to hear him and to raise an eyebrow at her.

“He is implying since I am mated to Marcus, I would be paying more attention to the instructions than the pupils. Though one might argue that the instructor was not particularly good at his job if he could not captivate my attention,” Nessa retorted. Travis looked at Nessa and then shook his head, then focused his attention on Joel.

“I don’t know how reasonable it is to ask me to discuss the previous Luna in front of the current one.”

“We can always ask her to leave, if that makes you more comfortable,” Joel offered.

“Hell will freeze over before I comply with such a request,” Nessa sweetly replied to Joel, who only shook his head. “And if you think of approaching him without me, I will make sure to talk about Tracers and Enforcers in front of my friends.”

Joel growled at her hidden promise, which only made Travis stand guard. Calling Kat a friend was overkill at best, but she had to be sure Joel got her message loud and clear. She needed to know what was going on and if Marcus was secretive about the implications of it all, she could acquire the information herself. Moreover, it’s not like her imagination has not concocted an image of Emma that was impossible to compete with.

“So where do we start?” Nessa asked.

“The beginning…” Joel offered and they both looked expectedly at Travis.

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