Archibald Barrett

POV ALPHA ARCHIE - DARK MOON PACK

Getting that phone call a few hours ago informing me of Emerald being unable to attend the training camp dug a knife into me. My wolf Blaze took over that phone call, demanding to know why she could no longer attend. I could tell Dean and his wolf were at war with one another. I shouldn't have let Blaze out, especially with an alpha like Dean Emerson, but Blaze is protective, as am I when it comes to that girl. 

Emerald went ten-on-one with rogues, and from the explanation Dean gave, they were experienced rogues; someone was training them, and it wouldn't be the first time. Many times, rogues have tried forming their version of packs, but one of two things usually happens. They either kill each other because they have no control, or they all think they deserve power when they don't. If that doesn't happen and they start to get a little too big and start messing around with other Alpha's territories, we go after them, killing them all, and we never lose that battle. We might lose some warriors, but never the battle. It's never a win-win situation. 

Emerald Brooks-Withsmith impresses more and more by the minute. From the moment I laid eyes on her, I knew she would be an elite warrior, not only elite but the top elite worldwide. I doubt anyone could stop her if they tried. 

When I saw her barely tap her foot on another trainee's jaw, shattering every tooth in his mouth, I ensured she signed up for my classes. My Beta was ordered to ensure she attended them all. She didn't have much choice when being ordered to. Though we saw her schedule was open after the first day, we believed she was going around looking for someone to teach her new things. You can tell she wants to be better and never wants to stop learning; I can support that. 

My mission was to teach her everything I could within those two weeks. Also wanted to get to know her. Emerald's a guarded person, though. She doesn't trust. Another thing that I can relate to. So, when my charm didn't work for her, I focused on training her. You can learn a lot about someone from that alone.

Like I was not easy on her, not even for a second. She took me down a few times. When she would fail, she shot right back up, ready to keep going. She would ask me questions about stances or make-up scenarios in her head. She would want detailed step-by-step directions on how I'd handle those situations. 

She had me on my toes, and I haven't had someone challenge me or help me think in years. Honestly, no one has ever pushed me the way she has. I need that in my life. Everyone wonders why I am a grump-ass alpha or seem so cold. My Beta is the only person who knows my story, and he doesn't even know the entire truth—just the bare minimum. 

Since becoming an Alpha, everyone has always said yes. To everything. Even my shit ideas that I would throw out as a joke to see if someone would challenge me. Nope, they would pretend to be impressed and start working on it. Of course, I stopped them before they could make a fool out of me, but Emerald is someone I needed help from initially for someone else in my life. But now I need her too. In any way, she'll have me. 

The first time I heard of Emerald was roughly two years ago. Alpha Dean and I were at a conference dinner when Emerald called him to say hi. She missed him and loved him. But when he saw her name on that phone, he lit up like a full moon, and when he started talking to her, I learned he had a soft spot for this girl. At first, I was concerned he was cheating on Esma, which floored me because that man adores his wife and loves the hell out of her, and for a good reason. Besides being breathtaking, she's a fierce Luna and the sweetest, most nurturing woman. 

I decided to ask him when I realized there was no possible way he would cheat on that woman. As an Alpha, people don't have that effect on you. You can rarely get an alpha to melt over you like a popsicle, but once I asked, I got the whole run down. 

At this time, she was roughly sixteen but in the top 10% of the warrior class. She was faster, stronger, and wiser than almost every warrior Dean had. And that's saying something because no one in their right mind will go to war with his pack or his people. Even the non-warriors, hell, and most of his omegas are oddly strong. 

His Beta and Gamma are fond of the girl, and their sons are her best friends. Guess when her mom mated with a warrior in their pack, she moved them there at three, and they were connected at the hip sense. Her mother was also a warrior, and her stepfather, who I was happy to hear loves the hell out of her, is one too. He didn't go into much detail on her life besides her biological being killed in a war when she was only a few months old, and the moon goddess had tested her limits. She was put through hell but came out swinging. 

One thing was clear to me, though. She was surrounded by people who loved her. That needs to account for something. 

Also, he informed me how well she is in school. Guess she always works ahead, so by the middle of the year, she's done because she did all her assignments and was a straight-A student. He was incredibly proud because Miss Emerald had a chokehold on the future Alpha, Beta, and Gamma of the Silver Moon. Thanks to her, they were straight-A students, kept their asses in line mainly, and made sure they remained calm during football games. Since his territory lines with the human world, the schools need to play one another, and of course, you don't tell humans no thanks. We are werewolves, not how it works. But somehow manages to stay aware and not let their wolves out during such a game, which is impressive. 

When he started showing me pictures, my fucking heart stopped. Those eyes, those piercings make you do whatever she asked, and those eyes were all too familiar to me. That's when I knew I needed to meet her, but what I didn't know, what my former mate didn't have, was the ora Emerald does.

Something about her, I don't know. She held herself like an Alpha, but there was a Beta energy when she spoke. It was weird, considering those two never co-exist, and then there was the fact she was a warrior. An extraordinary warrior. 

As I said, I needed her for a few reasons. Besides me genuinely wanting her to train some of my warriors, there was also an underlying motive. I needed to get her to my pack alone so I could speak with her. 

After a three-hour flight and a twenty-minute drive, I'm walking on the porch of the beautiful pack house of Silver Moon. I have always loved the feel of this place; it is an enormous mansion, but the Luna does a swell job of making it feel like a home. Though my grumpy, asshole exterior won't inform her of that because letting people in is a no-go for me anymore.

I do my job as an Alpha, and I do it damn well. That's all anyone needs to know. 

Luna Esma answers the door with a bright smile but can instantly tell she hasn't slept. But she holds her arms out, being the warm lady she is, "Alpha Archie, nice to see you again!"

I don't habitually hug Lunas, but she is the expectation. I embrace her hug and reply, "You too, Esma. Smells amazing in here; take it there hasn't been any sleep?"

"Well thank you, I made plenty please come in and eat. And as for sleep, no. Pri...sorry Emerald's wound on her stomach opened back up and by the time we handled that it was pointless. Plus the gentlemen are still wound up as you can imagine."

How the hell did that happen? I know Dean does not hire incompetent workers. He is very work-oriented, so something must have happened. But I need to keep calm if I want to speak with her. She is the only person who would give me a piece of my mind and wouldn't be scared to do it.

"She's okay, I hope?" 

Esma eyes me for a moment and nods, "sore but sadly seen her worse. She is handling it waiting for Gem to wake up to heal her. Poor girl crashed and shifted to quick so now she's on her own."

The adrenaline needed to pump through a wolf with ten attackers against one; it's not surprising her wolf crashed the minute the fight was over. But I know how painful that shit could be. 

"Been there before. Though the little time I spent with her I know she is tough as nails."

Luna Esma sighs, "Yes. She's too tough sometimes. But come, we'll feed you and that wolf of yours. I'm sure you are starving and Em is in here as well." 

The kitchen has an open floor plan, so the living room is wide open to see. I have three eyes on me, and all their wolves are quietly snarling at me. Now that is interesting. I glance over at the back of Emerald, but before talking to her, I need to make friends with the futures of Silver Moon. That might go a long way with her.

Unbuttoning my suit jacket, I give the boys my best Alpha smile, "Alpha Declan, nice to meet you in person finally."

They all stand. Declan gives me a firm handshake, but he knows I'm up to something. Just different from what he's thinking.

"And you must be Beta Jackson and Gamma Wesley. It's nice to meet you."

They all have firm handshakes and keep their politeness to themselves. Declan nods toward Emerald, "she would get up to greet you, but her body isn't doing the greatest."

"Understandable, how is she?"

"Em always said pain is a welcome comfort for her," there is sadness in his eyes, and it makes me wonder what happened to make her feel that she needs pain. "But she has a concussion. Two, no, sorry, three broken ribs, a pretty nasty gash on her arm and leg. Then enough bruises to go around for the entire pack." 

Alpha Declan is hurting for her. His wolf is whimpering inside that head of his. When I glance at the other two, I have the same feeling. Now that is damn interesting.

"Hopefully, her wolf wakes up soon to help with the pain. Do you mind?" Typically, I am not one to ask, but I play the game. Putting on my best display to make her trust me. Trust is earned with someone like her, and I respect that.

Declan nods, waves his hand in her direction, and follows suit behind me. Esma smiles while sliding a plate of food for me next to Emerald.

When I go to sit down, she smiles at me. It's soft, tired but a smile, "how was your trip Alpha?" 

Skip the pleasures. I like that. I like her and can't help but chuckle at her casualness with me.

"Boring. Ten rogues, huh?"

Emerald shrugs like it's no big deal, "why go small when you can go big?"

"True, may I ask you a question though?"

"You are here to ask me those are you not? And I know my limits with the word no on Alpha's so not going to waist one here."

I hear the three boys chuckling, Esma is smirking out of the corner of my eye, and I can't help it. I do, too. 

"Blunt, now tell me did you go looking to fight as many rogues as you could or did they come to you?"

"Yeah sorry, with most Alphas I try to work my way there. Lack of sleep but no. I was here helping Jacks sister with homework when the attack started, our night patrol was out but when they saw how high the number was, they called me in. I was running in the direction they were in. A few came out trying to intimidate me then the rest followed. One thing lead to another, badaboom, here we are."

Indeed, I do like this girl. She is not even intentionally trying to be funny. She just is, and I don't want her apologizing to me for being herself or being honest.

"Don't apologize. Your upright honesty is refreshing. Will say surprised to hear you iowaited for an order to join the party?"

Em chuckles, "well Alpha Dean had other issues going on, Alpha Declan was also in a mood. Like I said know my limits, though with them I get a longer leash still know when to stand down and wait. Will admit takes extreme self control." 

Yeah, she has to have the alpha gene. There is no doubt about it. I'm just not sure she knows who she is or where she comes from since I imagine her mother wouldn't tell her since they were supposed to be killed. But little do they know, a good amount were freed into the human world, a few into other packs, and given new names and identities because no one else agreed with that order. I started learning all this within the past year, so I wonder if she would know.

Alpha Dean comes downstairs, dropping a pile of folders in front of Emerald, and kisses the top of her head.

"I'll be out of town for a conference, so once you decide what you want to do, inform Declan. He'll see to it, okay?"

Dean glances over at me and holds out his hand, "sorry Archie, was in a zone didn't see you there."

"No problem, Dean. May I ask?" I point to the folder, curiosity getting the best of me.o

Emerald doesn't ask or think to. She slides the folders to me. "The rogues that attacked me last night and another five my team captured."

Dean puts his arm around Esma, beaming as they fell in love yesterday. Declan starts glancing through the folders. I think more to remind me he's here, watching over her.

"Emerald likes to see their files. Everything we can find on them. To know why they went rogue, their strengths and weaknesses, and if they can be tamed again. She digs through them to see if any could be intergrated into our pack."

My face must be saying everything I'm thinking. Declan grins, trying not to laugh at me when he pulls out his phone. Pulling something up. He slides it over to me and nods. I pick it up, reviewing a file on his phone, "We caught Amelia a year ago. Swore, the girl, was evil but come to find out, she mated with an alpha. He rejected her and made her a rogue for no reason. When we called, he admitted to not having a legitimate reason. Em talked to her for ten minutes and now she's a first-grade teacher at one of our schools."

Her heart is something to be admired. No one looks into rogues. They are typically immediately killed or locked up without a release date in mind. I won't deny it's our tactic in my territory.

"Tell me Emerald, when did you come up with this idea and how did you convince your Alpha to go for it?"

Dean chuckles and rubs his chin, "Emerald refuses to hear the word no but to be fair she rarely has a bad idea. So with that in mind I let her test run a few to see if it were possible. Ee haven't had any real issues and 95% of the rogues we capture are integrated in our pack and full members."

"Thirteen to answer the other question," Emerald has a knowing smirk. She knows this family adores her. The feeling is mutual. The admiration is still strong despite the tension between her and the three boys.

Declan seems sad. Jackson looks guilty, and she looks like she wants to rip their throats out. When she heard that she needed to talk to Declan about this, she was torn up about it—but not going to push my luck. 

Not interested in high school drama. What I am interested in, though, is this. I never thought about it, but it's a good idea. With their success rate, I'm highly interested. 

"We have quite a few rogues locked away in my territory. Wouldn't mind learning more on how you do this? It's a brilliant idea because as Declan pointed out and I failed to remember is some rogues get thrown out of packs for ludicarious reasons."

"They do, but I have no problem showing you. It's basically how well you read people. Their files only give you so much, and usually, those are changed to make it worse. You read people quite well, so you should be okay with figuring it out. And rest assured, it's not filling your ego, just being factual. You don't need help in the ego department; you seem pretty well there.

Dean coughs and points at Emerald, "Princess, I know yo..."

"It's okay, Dean," he doesn't need to stop her.

I don't want him to.

"She's correct. I don't, nor did I believe that's what she was trying to do. You were right, though. Her honesty is refreshing. A welcome change in my life." 

Emerald's giggle is the cutest and sweetest sound I have ever heard. Declan starts laughing, rubbing his temple like he knows where she is about to go. 

"Let me guess? If you suggest to Beta Adam or anyone for that matter, why don't we paint a purple cat with blue whiskers and yellow polka dots on the entrance sign to your territory, they would act like it was the most brilliant idea they had ever heard."

Emerald's a breath of fresh air. I look at Dean in amazement. He shrugs, "Last time, it was a turquoise penis with children's heads coming out of it. So take this as a win."

Emerald puts her hand flat in front of me, "Sorry if this offends you, but Alpha Eric is a walking dick, so it was appropriate. And let's not act like after pointing that out to him he started to change right? I'd say I made him a better Alpha."

She didn't offend me not in the slightest because Eric was a complete dick. His reputation was worse than mine, and that's saying something. About a year ago, he had loosened up a little bit. Now I know why.

I can't suppress my laugh anymore, "oddly my second year of being Alpha I suggested an idea of putting an awful bronze statue of a cartoon wolf in the middle of a bank. Purely to see what he would do or say. That man gave me the biggest smile and told me how brilliant I was. Never been more disappointed and humored by one person before."

The room gets a kick out of that one, as they should. Emerald loved it and was unsurprised that my Beta didn't question me.  

"People are terrified of you. They should be to a degree but not to the degree they are." 

Emerald's random bluntness takes me by surprise in a good way.

No one had done that before, not even Dean. I can see him mind-linking her, but I can't hear since we are from different packs. I don't want her to stop; I want her to keep going.

Dean knows these are things an Alpha needs. He also knows some of us don't take honesty well. I know he's trying to stop her more for her protection over offending me, but he needs to stop. I need this.

"Would you mind giving me your opinion on why that is? No one's ever been upfront with me about it."

Emerald looks at Dean for the first time for approval. He nods for her to go ahead. With the utmost honest, straightforward look I have ever seen.

'She's beautiful.'

Blaze is right. She's beyond beautiful.

"Are you going to go all alpha on me if you hear something you don't like or if my honesty is a little too honest for you? Of course, you're allowed, but I would rather have a warning. I'm tired and to be truthful, I don't have the energy to tip-toe around your ego." 

I smirked into my cup of coffee, "Haven't I yet?"

I cannot get over her bluntness. I've never respected anyone more in my entire life.

"But to answer your question, no, I will not. Blaze might appear for a flash depending on what you say, but I will keep him at bay and force him to take in what you say." 

"Blaze, hmm, fitting for you." Emerald gives me a majestic smile, and I can't help but give her one back.

"Thank you, I think. But please go ahead and explain to me." 

"Well, to be honest, you walk around like a complete prick. There is no doubt you went through a few horrible things in your life. I can relate to that, but you wear your trauma as a shield. Worse than me, and that is saying something. One look at you, and you seem unwilling to care what others have to say, their opinions, or how they might feel. You give off this energy of leave me the hell alone and do as your told. I watched she-wolves drool over your every word, but even those used to throwing themselves around were too scared to come up to you. Even the few Beta girls at the camp were afraid to approach, which isn't usual—intimidated, yeah, sure, but scared? For a beta? Not normal. But if anyone of those people would pay attention, they would see the truth."

Nail on the head. She didn't miss a single thing, and the only woman ever not falling under my spell of being drool-worthy is this one, but I like that. I like it a lot. 

Blaze is full of emotion at the moment. He wants to hear what she says but also wants her to shut up. I don't particularly appreciate showing my scars to many people, nor does he. But I need this, one of the reasons why I'm here. 

"Can I see?" Emerald asks, and I glance to see what she's talking about. She smirks, "Blaze like I said, suits you, Alpha Archie."

That's what she wanted, to see my wolf's eyes. She didn't even flinch when even other Alphas got scared. My eyes are naturally hazel, but my wolf eyes are deep orange with copper flakes. They even freaked me out sometimes, but Emerald looked at me, at Blaze, like he was expected. Maybe even beautiful. 

"What's the truth?" I find myself asking without thinking about the room for the first time.

She takes a sip of her water and looks over at Declan. They aren't communicating. It seems like an everyday gesture she got accustomed to over the years. Taking a peak at a guy she is interested in, he offers her a soft smile and nods, "Tell him Em."

Emerald smiles at me and again renders me speechless, "you are an extrodaniary alpha. Your heart and soul, the honest Archie, is written all over your territory. You will go without before anyone in your pack does. It's centered around family, working together, and knowing how to defend yourselves but not against one another. If they just noticed that and looked at you for just a minute longer, they would see that you need people to challenge you, maybe even tell you that you are stupid once in a while. You want them to come to you if they have an idea but whatever happened to you made you build a wall. Not just a wall but a double brick, an unbreakable barrier around you that doesn't let anyone in. Not even a single step, not even next to the wall, and you can't help it. You've been doing it for so long. Just natural at this point. I've seen you with your Beta. He respects you, but you are far from most Alpha and Betas. As I said, you are a great alpha, but you could be better."

Blaze is entirely at bay. He likes this girl, and so do I. She's everything I need in life. She doesn't fear me. She doesn't think I'm a freak and sees me for who I am without knowing the entire truth. 

I want to say she's wrong but can't do it. 

"You know," I tap the coffee cup on the counter and then look her in the eyes, "would have thought I came here for me. You aren't wrong Emerald, though I wish you were."

"Everything is fixable even if you think it's not, it just takes hardwork but you are perfectly okay with that. So at the end of the day it comes down to acceptance and readiness. But if you aren't here about you, why are you here? A long way to come to see little old me over a rogue attack, that I handled quite well may I add."

I haven't laughed this much in years, and I've only been in this house for about twenty minutes. "You did well, Emerald. I'm here because I need your help. Nothing harmful, I assure you, but it's personal. And I have a favor to ask, a big one?"

"Interesting, have one for you too."

"How big?"

She shrugs her shoulders, playing me, "hmm, pretty huge."

"If you two would like to use my office you may," Dean interjects. 

"Please, Dean can join if that makes you more comfortable, Emerald."

Emerald waves him off, "if you haven't noticed, not scared of you, no offense."

"None taken, like you pointed out don't want everyone in the world scared of me. Maybe slightly of course but not you."

"Welp, that's good because there is not a wolf, demon, or vampire I've come across that scared me yet. Now let's see if I can help you. Already know you can help me." 

Again, she makes me laugh, and it's getting noticeable looks towards me. Since you know my reputation and all. I don't laugh. Declan comes around, offering her his hand to help her down. She takes it, eyeing him with such sadness. They both do and for some reason, that's getting to me more and more. I want to know what happened. 

She makes noises of discomfort until she makes it to her feet. Declan laces her arm into his, "you are going to need help upstairs, bruiser." 

'Bruiser, I like that,' Blaze laughs.

'Me too.'

I am still determining what will happen if the moon goddess doesn't mate these two. Declan and his wolf seem in love with this girl. His wolf keeps coming through to check on her, and they are both extremely gentle. Never heard of a wolf falling in love with anyone before knowing she undoubtedly belonged to them. Not that I have ever heard, anyway.

As we enter the office, Declan looks at me, "The couch might be more comfortable for her."

"Absolutely."

He places her down and runs his hand down the side of her head before pushing himself back. He nods to me, then heads to the door. "Would you two like me to proof the room so no one can hear?"

"Yeah, the pack doesn't know yet and don't need it getting around."

I glance at her, wondering what she's talking about. Declan looks like he's about to howl at the moon in pain. He presses the button, giving her one last look before leaving the room. And I can't help myself anymore.

"Dean told me you and the futures were very close, that doesn't seem the case today. Though whatever Alpha Declan did it's hurting him and his wolf."

Emerald sighs and tosses her head back, "let's just say he said extremely screwed up things about me to stick his dick in a she-wolf that I'm sure he doesn't know their name." 

As I'm watching her, it's not even phasing her that he fucked the girl. It genuinely is what he said, "what did he say?"

She looks at me for a minute, then down towards her lap, "she brought me up. He told her that I was nothing to him, just a warrior, someone that works for and beside him."

"As screwed up as that is and how horrible this may sound, been there on his end. For what it's worth, you can't hate him more than he hates himself right about now."

"True, but by now you should know me well enough that Alpha's don't get a pass to be dicks or downgrade someone. Especially if you supposedly love them."

For the first time in the wolf world, someone doesn't give us alphas a slide. We were raised to believe it's our goddess-given right to do who and what we please, whenever we please until we get our mate. But even some alphas don't take that seriously. Cheating on their Luna but swearing they love their wives. It always disgusted me. My father was one of those alphas—a pure shit one.

"Do you disagree? Feel free, we can have different opinions and still get along."

I just realized I've been staring at her. I could stare at her all day; she is a goddess. A little embarrassed. I haven't been this fascinated with a girl since middle school. What is wrong with me?

Coughing out my embarrassment, "no I apologize. I do agree with you just never heard anyone brave enough to admit that and again you disarm me. Now I know Declan is hurting, so are you but I think its good to stand your ground and not let him slide when you so easily could considering he is your best friend. Most people preech but someone close to them does the exact thing they preech against and they turn a blind eye. You are very refreshing for a lack of better word."

Emerald tilts her head, analyzing me for a minute, when the sunlight through the window hits her eyes just right, making them twinkle. It captivates me for a moment. 

"Can't believe I'm saying this but you are too."

That makes me grin, "am I? Please Emerald explain."

"As you can imagine with Pops, sorry Alpha Dean being who he is, I met just about every Alpha of importance. You are the first Alpha not to go all do you know who you are talking to young lady, or threatening me in some sort of way I could care less about. You listen, talk back, don't know. Not use to that besides with Po...goddess Dean whatever and Dec."

I can't help but laugh at her getting frustrated at having to call him Dean. Technically, she needs to address him as Alpha Dean to me, but if he doesn't mind, neither do I. 

"Before I address what you just said, Dean and Declan they don't mind you not calling them Alpha?"

She snorts, "no. Dean prefers when I call him Pops but if we are in front of the town during an important meeting or event, things like that I will address him properly. As for Declan he never expects me too, neither does his wolf Goliath. But I do when we are on patrol or if the event or meeting Dec is involved in." 

"Call them what you call them. Unless, of course, in front of people. The same goes for me. You can call me Archie. Now as for what you said regarding me, you are a welcomed surprise Emerald. I enjoy talking to you, the challenges, the way you make me think. No one has challenged me in quiet along time and to be perfectly honest even that person didn't question or make me think like you."

She's proud of that, as she should be. With a bright smile, "well thank you Archie take that as a win. Now what do you think I could possibly help you with? The training I still want to do though, for the record." 

"Please, we will reschedule that when your doctor orders lift. I am looking forward to that. But why don't you go first? Mine is kind of a trust me and see sort of thing."

Emerald inhales sharply and exhales slowly. "What I am about to say I don't want you to think I was listening to your conversation. I was generally walking back to my room when I heard you speaking with your Beta...."

This is the first time since entering this house that she has given me a disapproving look, and I'm not too fond of it. I don't know, but her disappointment in anything I do hurts me, Blaze, too. 

"Inform me what you heard so I can help ease your mind. I do not enjoy the look you are giving me."

Her eyes glare tiny daggers at me, "Dark Jewel Pack."

'Shit! You said a lot about the pack!'

A lot of fucked up shit came out of my mouth. I was livid with personal things on top of it. No one wanted to help me expand or find territories besides Dean. Then, when he mentioned the Jewel Pack, I went into a spiral for a bit.

"Okay, tell me what you heard?"

"That you wanted to know if there were an Eros left and if there was you wanted them so they didn't get in your way of a hostile take over." 

Of course, she had to hear me threatening to kill them and be a monster. Before I can defend myself, she snaps at me, "do you enjoy killing? Do you enjoy taking over in ways that end in blood shed? Because all signs point to you being centered around family but you are willing to kill other's all for some land." 

Leaning up on my elbows, I stare directly into her eyes, "Emerald I can assure that no I do not enjoy those things nor do I plan on taking over or harming anyone. Well admit my alpha assertiveness took over as did Blaze a few times in that instance. I have a history with a few people in that pack most personal. Also was dealing with other things and was directing my aggression towards them. I did not even go near that pack, would love the land and the pack but after how angry I got didn't feel like I deserved them. Though I heard they were struggling under the Beta. He is trying his hardest just not his job. Dean and I sent supplies over to them a few days ago to help."

Everything in her body relaxes, and she gives me that smile I love so much again, "good, so if I tell you I'm Ezekial's great-granddaughter, you aren't going to kill me?"

"You are an Alpha." I smirk and drop back into the couch. "And no I will not. Actually was praying that you were an Eros, believed you to be with your unique eye color and your wolf. Part of my personal favor."

Emerald laughs, wagging her finger, "ahh but not just an Alpha. I am an Alpha, Beta and Warrior." 

"Should shock me but with how you carry yourself, it doesn't. You are a very unique character and I mean that in a good way. Now before we get carried away what favor do you need?" 

"I'm willing to give Dark Jewel to you but I want to do it properly. First I would like permission to stay in your territory for a week or two, to see how you truly run it. I want to see you as an alpha work. Then I would like to talk to Dark Jewel together, explain who I am to them and show them you are there to help them. Build them back up, not tare them down or destroy their home."

Why will someone of her caliber let a pack that huge and respected despite their crap alphas over the past thirty years go? She is a natural-born leader. She would be an excellent alpha for that pack. I want it, I love that property, even the pack, despite those particular two, but they are being handled, so there is no need to worry about them. 

"You don't want to take over the pack? I mean this with every ounce of my being you would be an extraordinary Alpha." 

"I won't deny that, but it's not where my heart lays. Silver Moon is my home, and being a warrior is what I love to do. It's an honor for me to be a warrior. I didn't get to the title I have because of the people around me or who I was born to; I got it on my own. If I weren't good, Dean would not put me on the front lines, he hates doing it now since he considers me family, but he knows there is no better. I did that before all of this before I knew the truth. Slight truth still don't know much, but it doesn't matter."

I can help give her some knowledge about who she is, and I would love to explore that with her. And she offered to come to my pack when I thought I might need to pull out the big guns and beg. I need her to come to meet someone, help me, and help her simultaneously. 

Also, I can respect her discussion and know how it feels to work hard to get recognition for who you are, not your parents. That's why I am the way I am. I refuse to be the cold-hearted psycho my father was. I can deal with people thinking I'm cold, but not mentally or physically.

"Dean doesn't want the land or the opportunity?"

Emerald shrugs, "I didn't ask him, but I know that he is perfectly happy with his territory and as a warrior that patrols this land, we are big enough. Asking you Archie from Alpha to Alpha, friend to friend. I need to know that Dark Jewel will be taken care of. They deserve a great alpha, they been suffering for long enough."

I barely knew this lovely young lady in front of me, but she saw me. No one sees me. I might as well be sitting here naked. Her faith in me is paralyzing but yet a thrill. 

She's asking me because she trusts me to care for that pack. I agree they have been through enough hardship. They need help, and I am more than willing to give. There is no way I will ever let Emerald down. And she is the light I needed. I need to be better, heal, and let it all go. 

"Emerald, it would be my absolute honor to take over and help them. Whatever you need for me to prove that to you, tell me. Of course, you are more than willing to come to my territory anytime, and actually I need you to come. There I can explain how you could help me."

"Okay I can do that and all I need for you is to let me observe you doing what you do, show me a plan for Dark Jewel and let me speak my mind. That one I am adding because you need that and your Beta needs to see he to should be speaking up and challenging you. Yes there are limits, but he isn't even five cenetimers above the starting line."

I snort and smile at her, "I expect you to be true to who you are. Yes, I do need that very much especially right now if I'm going to be taking over Dark Jewel. You said you'd like to speak to them, I can arrange a meeting with the Beta. He asked me to take over but didn't feel right. Sure with who you naturally are and when he finds out who you are, he will want you but your endorsement of me will go a long way." 

"Good because not a fan of watering myself down. The rest sounds perfect."

"I seen both, prefer the unwatered verison myself. Now you said one to two weeks, correct?"

Emeralds nods, "whatever you can fit within your schedule since training and working out is off limits for me, kind of going crazy, and it hasn't been a day."

"Been there, understand. How about we just settle for two weeks? Between both our favors, we will be needing it. And that way, you get plenty of time to see every aspect of how I run things. Would you like to bring someone with you? Want you to feel comfortable."

"Uhm, no. Would like the invitation open, though? In case I feel it necessary and just for the comfort of knowing. It would be Gamma Wesley."

Something is behind that, and I will figure out what's happening there. For now, just thrilled she is going to come to Dark Moon. 

"Absolutely. You will be staying at my home in my guest house. Think you will like it and that way you have your own space, no one to bother you there but still close enough if you need anything."

"Perfect. If we need to go over the two weeks, I need to be back in Silver Moon before the third Saturday morning. I'm not saying anything against your pack, but it's my eighteenth birthday..."

I understand that on the first night of getting the blessing from the moon goddess entirely, the woman's scent intensifies so that other male wolves try crawling their way into her. The shitty ones without control would do unspeakable things to claim her. So even if her mate is not in this pack, which I'm sure it is, this pack will be able to handle themselves properly because they are used to her. 

Still very difficult for a male, but people respect her status within the pack. They would never touch her no matter how badly they wanted, and if for some reason one tried, well, between the warriors and her male pack, I feel assured she would be safe.

"Enough said, understand completely. I will make sure you get back with plenty of time to spare. Wait...you and Declan have the same birthday?"

I was invited to his 'Alpha Initiation Party.' That's the only reason I know. When Alphas turn eighteen, they are officially allowed to take over if their fathers see fit. Still, regardless, they are considered entirely fledge Alphas. Close family, friends, and Alpha that we are aligned with meet or get reacquainted with him, so we know who we are working with. Also, he needs to establish friendships or at least a working relationship.

She giggles, "Uhm actually yes, us, Jackson, and Wesley. Strange right?"

How bizarre is that? A complete, high-ranking friend group with the same birthday? And their wolves? They were emotionally attached to her in a way I had never seen. Especially Declan, that gets me. His bloodline does not get mates early. Though powerful blood, just that is not a blessing they received. 

The way he treats her, his wolf, makes it seem like they know she belongs to them. Strange? Wolves can grow fondness, but I saw Declan's wolf glaring at me when I walked in. He was trying to be quiet, but he was the loudest, most protective. Everything about her and their little group keeps getting stranger but interesting.

'Let it go! I know you like her but that's not why you're here.'

'I know Blaze, but she's beautiful. Smart, strong, she's everything. It's hard not to fall for her. Trust me I'm trying.'

Blaze is correct, but then again, so am I. I hoped she blinded Dean, making him believe she was this amazing person, but behind his back, she was evil. She's not, though, the furthest thing from it.

"Very strange. Take it you will be attending the Initiation Party?"

Emerald smiles over at me, "well of course. Might be upset with him but we've never missed an important thing in each others live and our birthday's we always celebrate together."

"How do other she-wolves react to you four?" That just slipped out of my mouth before I knew it, but it's a good question.

She gets a grin, a very damn sexy one like she's about to fuck with. 

'Holy hell Arch! Keep your shit together!'

'Tell that shit to yourself Blaze!'

"Hmm, some get jealous. Not very many though after I came out as bi-sexual at fourteen. To be honest, see where my Alpha is, love women. Though I tend to be picky. I like to keep them for awhile so I'm not screwing every she-wolf in my pack."

'Fuck me!' Blaze and I say to each other in unison. That was not what I was expecting. I would lie if I said my dick wasn't as hard as a rock. Distraction needs a damn distraction!

"Then I hope you live by your Alpha code with those she-wolves as well."

That wasn't helpful, and it helped me picture it more. Blaze is snarling at me, and I'm doing everything for him not to appear. Not even for a second because she's watching, waiting to see if he will.

After a second, she nods, grinning, "of course. Don't hang out with them but don't leave them crying, don't hurt them. Well, nothing they can't handle or ask for anyways. And unlike most Alphas, I remember all their names."

She is doing this on purpose. "Emerald are you trying to get a rise out of me?"

"All that is very true but yes. For two reasons you seem like a man in control, which is a given but wanted to see how in control and Declan asked me, well ordered me too. He respects you, likes you even but is worried about me leaving to put it mildly."

I raise a brow, curious as ever, "though you are very alluring, gorgeous and would never object to being with you but have two rules. One is for the full map, I will never fuck someone under the age of eighteen. Even then that's rare. Normally stay about the twenty mark. Two if I am interested in someone more than just fucking I won't pursue them until after they had a chance to mate. Whatever the case may be, I would let them live that out first before ever trying. No matter how hard it may be or how tempting the girl."

I made it clear I was speaking about her. Scanning her body like the fine piece of art she is. I'm an Alpha sweetheart, and I can play too. And with you, it will be so much fun. 

Emerald is good. She gives nothing away. Not if she's embarrassed, shy, into the idea, nothing. She stares into my eyes like she has been doing, though it does something funny to me. It makes me feel things I hadn't felt before, and at this moment, I realized I fucked up. Falling for her is going to be damn near impossible.

After a beat, she smiles, "mister dark and twisty has good morals. Who knew?"

"Dark and twisty?" I chuckle.

"Yes, sounded fitting but be careful Archibald don't want to startle you but your darkness is starting to fade a little," she giggles and winks at me.

"Emerald," the girl can make me laugh, "you are something."

"Yeah I know but now I got a new title."

"Something tells me not to ask, but going to anyways. What is your new title?"

"The Champion! Someone finally won the battle..." she pauses dramatically for a beat, "of pulling the stick out of your ass."

For the first time in years, I'm laughing so fucking hard I'm crying, and so is Emerald. Though it's hurting her, she can't seem to stop. I don't want her to blow another stitch, so I calm myself down.

"Congratulations! But be careful don't want you to lose another stitch."

She waves me off, "Beta Anthony fixed them, those puppies aren't moving." 

"Okay. When do you want to leave?"

"Whenver just need to pack."

I grin at her, "keep secret?"

"Hmm, depends?"

"I want to leave tomorrow because I love Esma's cooking."

Emerald licks her lips, "oh my god I know! Her baking is phenomenal too. She's making roast and potatoes tonight too."

"Yeah, we will leave tomorrow. I'll arrange everything and let you know what time we need to leave. Would like to see your dad...sorry do you call him dad? I was assuming since you took his last name."

Em gets the biggest smile I have ever seen, "started calling him dad two hours after I meet him. I love that man, but he's downstairs. He arrived shortly after we came up here."

"Good, just want to make sure he is comfortable. Earlier, you said no one knew about your Alpha title?"

"Yes, but Dad knows. Pops told him, but before he could tell me rogues decided to come have a party. My dad knows your Beta so I'm sure he will be comfortable but understand you aren't trying to step on toes here."

I nod, "exactly. Speaking of did Dean give you permission to leave?"

"Yes. Actually asked him to call when I found out about everything but he informed me you were already coming."

"Had to see for myself how you were. Ten-on-one is impressive work."  

She grins, "Pops ever tell you about the time a pack of vampires tried attacking me?"

"No! But I would love to hear it."

Emerald holds her hand to me, "help me up, and I'll let him tell you. He loves that story, mainly because, well...he will tell you."

I've wanted to touch her somehow, so I will not deny her help. When I clasp her hand, it's smooth, and when she stands, I get a massive smell of her honey vanilla fragrance.

'Goddess, she smells biteable.'

Taking a small step back, I let out a breath and laced her arm in mine, "Well Alpha Emerald go inform Dean I am inviting myself to dinner, talk to your dad and get this story. Tell me, though, why Pops?"

She smiles lovingly, thinking about Dean, "on our ninth birthday, we had a pack party. We did a movie night in our park. Dean rented a popcorn machine and overfilled it; I mean, really bad. The thing didn't stop for ten hours, and there were four mountains of popcorn. It was ridiculous. Of course, all the kids loved it, but he was freaking out. After that, we just started calling him Pops, Dec only calls me him Dad when he's in trouble."

"Wesley and Jackson too?"

She nods, "yeah. Dean considers us his kids, Alli, Jackson's little sister too. We all have nicknames in this house. Like me, they always call me princess, and Esma calls me sweet girl. The boys, it's bruiser when I get in fights, Em all the time, Emmy when they fuck up but more often than not, princess to them too."

"So you guys really cultivate a family. Not just the typical Alpha, Beta, Gamma, yes, all connected, but the three families, you and Carter, are like one collective family."

"Yeah," she glances at me and smiles, "Dad has been best friends with those three since well ever."

"So it's kind of like tradition. Repeating the cycle, just it never breaks or not forced."

"Yeah, exactly. Just works. They welcomed me with open arms, and I latched on. I love them with everything I have."

I want to hear her whole life story. I look forward to having her alone because talking with her is easy. It's effortless, and she's brought me out of my shell in about two hours than one has in eight years.

Dean's sitting at the kitchen island, waiting as we reach the bottom of the staircase. "Everything okay?"

"Yes. Emerald is well, you know," I wave a hand to him, at a loss for words.

He snorts, "yes, I do. Princess, do you need anything? I think you can retake your pain meds if I remember correctly."

"YES!" Esma shouts from the living room, "I will grab them."

I help Emerald sit back on the stool, and she leans close to me, "they baby me too much." 

"Heard that!" Dean, Anthony, Michael, his mate Marie, and Esma all shout.

Emerald starts looking around, "where did dad go?"

"Oh, he will be back in a few minutes. One of the warriors in Brian's class keeps getting mouthy, and Brian warned him repeatedly."

"Ah, forgot Carter is the Warrior Pack Leader, correct?"

Dean nods, "yes, damn good one."

Esma comes over to the counter, giving Emerald some medicine and water. She watches her while she takes it, then forces her to drink the rest of the water. 

"Momma?" Em bates those eyelashes at her.

"Yes, sweet girl?"

"Archie is staying for dinner. We won't be leaving until tomorrow. Is that okay?"

"Like you need to ask, of course, though going to miss you. You just got home noow you are off again."

Emerald gets sad, "I know, but as I said, I will be back."

"Updates, young lady! There is no excuse since you won't be training!" Esma's eyes dart at me, and I put my hands up defensively, "no, absolutely not. I already told her we would reschedule the training classes once she has a clean bill of health. I planned going over her restrictions with Dean anyways, so I'm aware."

"Good! Now you've stayed in the same room and do as you please; dinner will be at six."

I don't want to leave her at all. I feel freaking sixteen again. It's stupid. But that proves I need to step away. Excusing myself, "I need to make a few phone calls but Dean, would you mind if I scope out the training sessions."

"Not at all; the boys start in about thirty minutes if you are done. Can take you over there, and that way, you can speak to Carter."

"That will do, thank you. Be down shortly. Emerald, thank you for the conversation, and again congratulations on your new title."

Emerald snorts in laughter, "anytime, and thank you. It was a battle I will never forget; the war is not over. Have to make sure it doesn't go back."

My laughter again draws attention; Anthony asks, "what are you two talking about?"

"You are looking at The Champion of Pulling the Stick out of my ass."

Emerald is utterly shocked that I said it out loud, and so am I. For a brief second, my body stiffens, but it doesn't last for long, though, when everyone is bent over, stomach holding in a fit full of laughter. Join right along with them. 

Have calls to make, but for the first time, I push work aside for a bit and enjoy this. Because in all my years of being an Alpha, it's strictly business. I might give a good chuckle at a joke at conferences or meetings, but never have I had a full-blown laughing fest. Or a conversation that is not related to business.

I need to send a quick text to my Beta about travel arrangements.

Me: Would you make flight arrangements? I prefer private. Emerald will be joining us. Her wolf passed out and shifted too quickly, so she suffered more injuries than just from the attack. If her wolf decides to awaken, I would like her to be able to heal.

Beta Adam: Been there. I will look into it right now. I hope Emerald is holding up okay otherwise. How is Carter holding up?

Staring at my phone for a minute, confused that he knew her father, but then it hit me. She did inform me they knew one another, but why did he never tell me of that? I don't know. 

Though I have been in the territory many times for Dean, I have not met Carter. I watched his training classes but always left before they ended. I never attended the social gathering Dean invited me to, which was every last one. I think it was his way of pulling me out of my shell, or my dark and twisty shell, as Emerald calls it. 

Me: She is incredibly strong, maybe even too much. Though she is in good spirits, that's a positive. As for Carter, I have yet to see him, but I will let you know. I am sure he developed thicker skin with a daughter like Emerald.

Beta Adam: She is a spitfire, sir. Carter has told me stories, plenty, and he has. Though, as a parent would imagine, it still messes with you no matter how strong your child is.

Me: I can attest it does, but I will update you when I see Carter. Will you let the staff know to get the guest house prepared? That is where Emerald will be staying.

Beta Adam: Already done, sir. They dusted, cleaned, and stocked the kitchen. I had that done when you left last night.

Me: Appreciate that, Adam. Thank you. Let me know what you find for flights. Do not care about cost or time, even if you can't find one for another day or two. Silver Pack is beautiful and sure. I can occupy my time.

Beta Adam: I suggest doing a session with Carter. He is talented and the kind of sparring partner that will keep up with you.

Beta Adam: If you were wondering, he won't let you win for who you are.

Pocketing my phone, I continue the colorful conversation in the room but consider Adam's suggestion. Until Emerald, Carter was the fastest, stealthiest, and most vital. He still has all the respect in the world from his pack and every other. 

Between my reputation and my Alpha title, it is rare for people willing to spare time with me to keep me strong. They just let me take them down. Until Emerald, only one person would go toe-to-toe with me: Dean. 

Dean laughs and glances at me, "still need to make those calls?"

"No text Adam. The other two can wait. Think Carter is up for a training session with me?"

"It would be his honor," Dean gets a wicked grin. Carter is one of the few who don't let him win, and that's exactly what I need. 

"Great. Let me grab my bag, and I'll change."

"Sounds good, Emerald. Are you coming?"

Esma coughs and raises a brow at her husband. The woman is ready to pounce. Dean kisses her, "To watch love, that is all, and to see Carter. She hasn't seen him since the hospital."

"Emerald, if you even so much...."

"Momma, the boys are there. Pops, Ant, Mike, Archie, do you think they would let me?"

Leave it to Emerald to calm a Luna, who is ready to attack all the males in one go. She smiles sweetly at her, "fair point. Will you tell Markus to stop by after? I am making cookies, and you know the boy is obsessed."

"Uhm yeah, will make sure he knows."

Something in her tone is weird about the mention of him, and she almost looks worried about something. Just wonder what. We will find out since she's going with us. I dismiss myself, grab my things from the car, and go to the room to change. 

They have one side of the house that is just guest rooms, five of them. Esma gives me the same one every time, and it's the only one with a balcony overlooking their magnificent backyard. I wonder if she knows I love a good view or if it is just a coincidence. Either way, I am grateful. As I said, I do enjoy visiting their home.

Taking a quick look out the French doors, I inhale deeply to smell the fresh air and the field of wildflowers boarding their backyard. Then, quickly change into black gym shorts, a plain white tee, and sneakers.

As I return to the kitchen, Anthony asks Emerald, "Has Jacks talked to you?"

"Nope! Not a damn word," she scoffs in disgust. Weird because she was speaking to me about them; it seemed like pure love. Besides Declan, I still could tell she was more hurt not speaking over anything else.

"My kid can be a damn idiot! He loves you though princess and I know Aspen is giving him hell."

"I wish people would stop saying they love me like it's a reason for me to forgive them. It's not. Declan hurt me personally, but he and Jacks both hurt me as friends and leaders. My Alpha and Beta were nowhere to be found while I was bleeding out in a fucking field for their pack."

'That doesn't seem like Declan or Jackson.' Blaze's ears perk up, wanting more because I agree. I don't know them well, but as far as young Alphas and Betas go, they are a top tier, the most well-behaved too, and are very loyal to their pack and members.

Something must have been personal for them to block their mind links intentionally. However, now I see why she is so angry. She has every right to be. Even when one of my warriors gets injured, I get to them, check on them, and make sure they don't need anything. 

She knows how to separate their relationships. She is mad at them each for multiple reasons. Her Alpha and Beta blood aren't helping either since she has instincts about their jobs, purpose, and duties. 

"Not an excuse Em. They deserve whatever you dish out."

I decide to make myself known before she gets upset, and she'll have the conversation when she is ready with them. And truthfully, I do not like snooping or feeling like I am.

Anthony notices me, nodding slightly, "Dean will be done in a minute."

Emerald turns, and I watch as her eyes scan my body. I can tell she likes what she sees, but unlike any other she-wolf, she doesn't melt into putty, blush, or anything. Just turns back around, "good thing you don't like people letting you win."

I chuckle and walk to the fridge to get a water bottle. "as you keep proving you are correct."

"It's exhausting, I assure you."

Anthony chuckles and walks away, shaking his head. I notice no one is around, and before I admit what I heard, I want to ensure no one is around. 

"Where is everyone?" 

"Esma and Marie had a meeting with the school board, Michael went to the training center to speak to Wesley about something."

I nod and walk around to sit next to her. She watches my every move up until I take my seat. She sighs and then looks forward, "overheard, did you?"

"Wasn't intentionally listening but yes."

"And?"

"Are you asking for my opinion, or would you like me to pretend I know nothing?" 

Emerald glances back at me, "humor me dark and twisty."

I chuckle, "I have a love-hate thing with that name, but I agree you have every right to be upset for many reasons. Your best friends weren't there when you needed them. Your Alpha and Beta weren't there when you needed them. And then a person you care for deeply dismissed you just for personal gain. It just well sucks that all those people are the same two people to you. Though it takes a lot of work to block out pack mind-links and personal ones that are coming through simultaneously, it seems to me they were trying to forget something. Or pretend, maybe? Maybe they are normal or pretending someone doesn't exist. Not sure, just a thought."

She nods slowly, taking in everything I just said. I watch a little smile creep up when she looks back at me, "would you like to remind me they love me?"

"No, Emerald," I laugh a little, "think it's well established they love you, you love them. Take it as Gamma Wesley was there for you,? Since his name hasn't been mentioned."

"Yeah, he was on the far south end of our territory because another patrol called in. He got to me as quickly as he could. And when the other two finally showed up to say he ripped into them is putting it mildly. Punishable bad."

It takes many balls and guts for anyone to dish out toward them. It must have been bad for her to suggest that, but knowing this group, they will let it slide since it involves Emerald. As for the pack, the Alpha and Beta were in the wrong.

Now that I'm taking a long, hard look at her, she was tall, but not as tall as most Alphas. She is a solid six foot, at least, but most Alpha females measure up to me. I'm six foot five.

"Sure, they will accept it and leave Wesley alone. But I mean this in no defense. You are short for an alpha."

Emerald holds her chest in a dramatic look of being impaled. "A way to break an Alpha girl's heart," she giggles.

"Gem is taller by about three inches," Dean says, running into the kitchen.

"Wasn't saying anything bad, Emerald, just an observation. Though you know that." 

I smirk. "still fun to mess with you. Are you gentlemen ready?" 

Dean offers her hand with a grin, "come on, princess."

After my sparing session with Carter, I retired to my room for a few hours to shower and work. Adam satisfied me with his suggestion. Carter never let up; it didn't even cross his mind, too, and I respect that. We both got each other pinned down an even number of times, which felt good. See where Emerald got some of her talents. 

I did get to speak with him about her coming. He was entirely on board and felt comfortable. Which I needed, not one of those Alphas that would drag her by her hair if she didn't want to be there. I ensured he knew she was free to leave if she felt the need and the open invitation for Wesley she asked for and extended it to him for any time or day he wanted to see his daughter.

I learned that not only are he and his daughter close but there are no secrets. At all, he was already aware that Declan and Jackson were unreachable. Considering he is a warrior leader, he must have attempted to. When she informed him about what had happened with Declan, he just listened to her explain what had happened. He wasn't angry with Declan, though. He was highly disappointed but not angry. 

What threw me for a loop was when she walked away to speak with some friends, and he told me that Declan told him the second he walked into the packhouse. Carter just gave him advice and told him how disappointed he was in him, which hit Declan pretty hard. That was confirmed when I laid eyes on the man himself. The guy is miserable. 

He has a plan brewing, and I am interested in watching that play out. 

I've been lying in this bed staring at the ceiling since I got off the phone with Beta Ashton from Dark Jewel. All my thoughts, her. But not just how beautiful she is, how perfect she would be for me or any man. I find it odd that I want to know everything about her. There is more to that girl than meets the eye, and I would love nothing more to lock myself away with her for weeks to talk. I would be perfectly okay with that. 

I need to start focusing on something else to break up these thoughts. 

Moon goddess must be listening because there is a knock on my door. When I opened it, I was not expecting Declan, but there he stood, he didn't need to say a word, already knew why he was there. I open the door and wave my hand for him to come in.

He goes straight to the balcony, and I don't mind that, but when I follow his gaze, I see why. Emerald is sitting in the grass at the far end of the property line with a teenage girl; by her looks, she's Beta Anthony's daughter, Alli. They are doing homework or something, spending time before Emerald leaves. I know they are close. 

I turn to sit in one of the chairs while he remains standing there with his hands in his pockets, just watching her. The look in his eyes is a mix of pain, love, and complete admiration for the girl.

The little girl shouts, "Hi, D!"

She's just all smiles, waving, and he lets out a little chuckle, "Hi, Angel!"

Emerald glances up at him, giving him a slight smile. His eyes tell me that one is mind-linked to the other, but that's none of my business. They keep their eyes on one another for a few seconds before Alli pulls Emerald's arm and makes her start chasing her around. 

That's enough to warm a dead man's heart. Declan's smile gets bigger watching them, and eventually, he blurts out, "we are in love with her."

I nod, though he isn't looking at me, "by us? Goliath and you or your entire group?"

"Think everyone is a little in love with Emerald, you can't control it but was referring to Goliath and I." 

"I know....all the above and not getting in your way Declan. I'm not dragging her out of Silver Moon, she asked, and I truly need her help."

He glances at me, "she would never allow you too anyways, but I know why she asked, and I know what she wants from you. I'm sure what you need from her she will help or to her best abilities."

Chuckling, "true she wouldn't and despite what people think, I would never force her too. Up until she asked me for a favor I was fully prepared for a no to coming to my pack. I know she has trust issues."

"She does, and for good reason," Goliath flashed angrily through his eyes. So, whatever her issues are, he is fully aware of them. I won't ask; I know my limits here, and he probably won't tell me. 

"You'll fall for her too. You can fight it all you want and no matter how much I hate it, it's a fact."

I already know this, but hearing it from a man more deeply in love with her than anyone is not what I expected. I was expecting a threat to my life, and though it wouldn't scare me, I accepted it gracefully because I understood.

"Not saying this to upset you but again, you would have to be a complete fool not to. Never meet anyone like her and won't deny she intrigues me, but like I said, not standing in your way."

"Appreciate that, but I need to explain how in love with her I am."

"Okay if you feel it necessary go ahead."

'Here we go, like this kid, though.'

'Me too. Feels like a little brother I never had.'

Declan looks back in the direction of the giggly girls and gets the biggest smile on her face, "Emerald is the only person on the planet who can piss me off and calm me all at once. When I tell you I'm in love with her, I mean deep, crazy, do anything kind of love. If she wanted me to strip my Alpha title, I would. If she wanted to be rogues and live a boring ass life in the human world, I would. If she asked me to kill someone, I would, even if that person was my flesh and blood. If she did something to be punished, I would take the blame. If she wanted me to stand by her side and she run this pack, I would. Before she decided to give dark jewel to you, I would have left this pack, my responsibility to it, and go with her. I don't need to threaten because it's obvious what I would do. I much rather die trying than live without her because, to be honest with you there is no me living on this damn planet without her. Now how many people do you know love someone that fucking much? Most Alpha and Luna's have their limits but for me there is none. There is not one thing you can suggest or think of that I wouldn't do."

Okay, now two people can render me speechless: Emerald and Declan. In all my life, I've never seen someone devote as much as he is. It doesn't matter to him what the moon goddess has in store. He will reject any girl thrown at him if it's not Emerald. There is no mistaking that. Dean and Esma are the closest I've seen to this kind of love, but there is a limit even with them. Declan will do anything to have her, keep her, and give her everything she wants. 

And what surprises me is how happy it makes me to hear that. You would think my attraction to her, how I am starting to feel, and my being an Alpha should make me feel threatened or pissed; he believes he could come here telling me to stay away. I'm not, though, not even a tiny bit. 

He threatened me, but most casually, in a way that I completely understand and do not believe to be irrational. 

'Think we should take him under our wing. Tell him why we need Emerald.'

The first part can get on board with. It never hurts to have Alpha in your corner, willing to help and be there for you. I know he has a fantastic father, but I'm telling you something about him: he feels like the little brother I never had. 

As for the second part, my pack has yet to learn. Just my Beta, Gamma, and my staff for a good reason. Real damn good reason. But with Emerald finding out, he might need to. Maybe?

'How about I offer an invitation for a week or so? I want Emerald to know first and I am still figuring out how to open up.' I offer Blaze.

'Yeah, do it. We can trust him.'

Declan turns to me and leans against the rallying, "I just wanted you to know. I have never admitted that out loud before. My family isn't stupid. They know I love her, and she does, but not to the depth I do. And you probably think I mainly did it as a threat, but it was more of a plead to protect her while she is with you. She has been through hell, ultimate hell, and she will defend your pack while she's there but need you to ensure she lives. That no one or thing hurts her."

That settles it, I like this kid, and there is no doubt he will be one hell of a leader.

"You've got my word Declan. She will come back to you in one peace."

He nods with a slight grin, "thank you."

"Not needed, but tell me you are taking over for your father for the week, correct?"

"Yeah, he has that conference in Canada, I believe."

"When is he do back here?"

Declan is confused but answers anyway, "Friday evening."

"Okay, I will arrange a flight and car for you Saturday. Come to Dark Moon so you can see why I need Emerald. You will be able to check on her and make sure she's okay. I suggest you keep this between us since she is still upset with you."

It perks him and Goliath right up. He stands up entirely, "really?"

"Yeah. I have never seen someone with more love than your parents, and it pleases me to know Emerald has someone willing to do those things for her. Though she would never want or do any of that but understand. I might fall for her as you said, hard not too, but I have self-control. Also, have more respect for you, more now. But let's be clear if you ever fuck up and she leaves your ass for good, then, well, I would be stupid not to try."

Declan laughs, shrugging his shoulders, "your right, you would but don't get your hopes up. I'll never hurt her again, not like I did. Fucked up to a new degree last night and with her in different ways, but I will fix it. That is for damn sure, but thank you, I appreciate it. And falling for her will only make you better as a person, wolf and Alpha. Already is, and I respect you too, for the record."

He doesn't care if someone falls for her if they keep their hands off. Another rare ass thing for an alpha. Seriously, what is it with this particular she-wolf? 

"She is. She seems very proud to have pulled the stick out of my ass. Her words not mind."

He laughs and looks back to the girls, "heard about that. The girl is colorful, but question?"

"Very, but what's that?"

"Where is she staying? And no, it's not for that. I told her I would ensure she knew daily that I loved and missed her and was sorry. So, I need to know my plan.

I chuckle because I know he did. "My place is in the guest house, so she has privacy and space. When your father told me she had trust issues, I thought it would be for the best."

Why am I explaining myself? I have no such idea, but he doesn't stop me. 

"Probably the best for you too. She doesn't sleep well and likes to wonder, which is part of the reason she stays here so much. She loves the backyard."

We both look at one another for a second, and it clicks, "side effect of trauma, understood but sure you like her being here. Knowing she's safe."

"Yeah, well, have you ever walked around down there?"

I shake my head no, and he smiles, "come on, I need to show you something."

Waving for him to lead the way, we walk past every conversation in the living room and go to the backyard, which is even more beautiful. The pool is gorgeous, with chairs and tables for social gatherings. A bar area and a tiny kitchen with a grill in another corner of the patio. 

Very family-oriented, things to make sure you can have plenty of people over whenever. There is room for kids to run around and a few different garden plots. Fruits, veggies, herbs. He takes me back behind the gardening shed, and a path is made right through the wildflowers leading to the woods. 

If we weren't in such an agreement and calm with one another, I would have thought he was dragging me back here to try killing me. But do not stress about that one, and keep following him, taking in the scent of the flowers. Then, the scenery of the woods is very thick, and there is a lot to patrol, and this is only a tiny fraction of the woods in their territory. Pretty as it may be, but dangerous nonetheless. 

All my thoughts evaporate when I see a gorgeous waterfall and a huge swimming hole. The water is crystal blue and sparkling, and it is breathtaking. They have their sanctuary—no wonder they love this place.

Three giant boulders are collected in the corner, perfect for sitting on to enjoy the view, and that's precisely what we do. 

"Emerald comes down here a lot. It's the only place she found that she can turn her mind off. So instead of asking her not to come here in the middle of the night, I have three patrol units just for this area alone so she can come here when and how much she wants with having plenty of time to snap back into reality if rogues would find this area."

'Smart kid.' Blaze is impressed with him.

'I know.'

I don't know what it is about this place, but I am absolutely in awe of him and Emerald. I can see what they see in one another and go above and beyond to protect that girl. Something tells me at least one of the times she was hurt, attacked, or whatever the case, maybe he intervened. Perhaps he even saved her himself because I could see trauma in him. 

I know he has been in attacks himself, but nothing wild that an Alpha wouldn't be able to endure or fuck with his head. We were built for violence. Before I could ask, four wolves appeared from the thick of the woods, and by how they kneeled and bowed to Declan, they respected him. There is no hesitation or guessing in their eyes. 

"All four of them were rogues Emerald turned into soldiers. Those two the dark brown one Winston, and the one black with whites around his eyes James are on their way to be warriors. The other two gray ones are the twins, Cody and Cory. Emerald is sending Cody to college for pre-med because he wants to be a trauma surgeon. Cory is going to trade school to be a machince loves classic cars."

I'm not sure why he is telling me this, but glad he is. When we return, she will show me how she handles all of this and makes it work. 

"That's impressive. What are their stories? If they don't mind me asking."

He looks at them, sure mind-linking them, and they all nod. 

"Winston left his own pack, his sister was mated with the Alpha who was her boyfriend at the time. But he rejected her on the spot and not in a nice way, in public form, said god awful things to the poor girl. Two days later she killed herself. James was accused of killing a betas daughter, though when we called his former back they apologized because they found the person that actually did it. They wanted him to come back because he was a first year soldier top of his class. We gave him the option but chose to stay here. All sad but Cody and Cory, their father did some really shitty things won't go into detail, but their Alpha killed him rightfully so as they say and I agree. Their mother dead a year before that though and they were only 12 at the time their dad was killed. Their Alpha released them of the pack to survive on their own."

It bothers me that you don't think about why rogues get banished. From the beginning, you are taught to kill or capture and torture. It's how it works across all packs. We are taught they are trying to take from us and hurt us for being rejected, but that is not the case. It makes me feel like complete shit for not realizing this on my own and immediately thinking the worst. 

Emerald can make a guy feel eight feet tall and one inch tall. I don't know if I should admire that or hate it. 

"How old were they when they joined your pack?"

Declan rolls his neck in discomfort, "seventeen."

"Holy shit! I'm sorry that's horrible, but very impressed, though."

"Cory said they were better off alone; their mother wasn't the best either. It was hard, but they made it work, made sure to keep their wolves strong. Oddly that's what they were doing when we found them, they didn't even run or fight. They were on the northeast end training themselves."

Declan snorts, "Oh and thats when Cody fell in love with Emerald. She feeds them a feast. She ordered no one to bother them to let them eat, let them take showers and put them in a guest room to sleep. They slept for 34 hours straight."

Seriously, that woman thinks the moon goddess hates her, but she might be the goddess herself. 

I laugh, "probably would fall in love with her after that too and the life you to endured. Take it Cory is gay then since you said Cody."

"Yeah, though he wants to make it clear he does love her, though."

"Figured as much. Emerald knows how to make you feel incredible but like complete shit doesn't she?"

He thumps my shoulder, "get used to it. She calls it a healthy balance."

"I bet she does."

Declan laughs alongside me and dismisses his patrol. It amazes me how much Emerald has contributed and added to this pack at such a young age and how her Alpha allowed her to reign on anything, including rogues. 

"What else has Emerald changed or contributed to around here?"

"Well, everything started when she ordered, and I mean foot stomping ordered, my dad at ten to start keeping the cells clean; feedding proper meals and showers were mandatory. Then slowly, she would convince him to release one or two at a time, no punishment, just let them back into the wild, up until thirteen, where she came up with this plan. At fourteen, she still has a hefty inheritance from her father. He was a high-profile criminal defense attorney in the real world, so everything he made, he saved for her. They lived off what they made as warriors. She donated half of that to the pack, and it started being used to send the rogues to school or for housing. Then at sixteen, her mom passed, and she gave the pack every penny of that inheritance that was mainly out of displaced guilt but was being used for what she was passionate about. Also, the same year, she got Dad to add a self-defense class into the school curriculum mainly for females, but anyone is welcome. Since most she-wolves have no interest in being soldiers or warriors,, she wanted them to know how to do the basics if needed. Says every woman should know how to fight of an entitled man. That wasn't a hard sell on dad, he got it done and added within two days. Oh can't forget the garden, you passed it on your way in. It's about five acres full of fruit trees, but towards the back, there are vegetables and herbs. All of that is free for the taking. Dad was worried about people abusing it or not helping but the elders love it, they are there all day and everyone takes what they need. Kids will go there to grab an apple or something while they play...." He starts laughing uncontrollably for about two minutes and finally shakes it out. 

"Sorry, then there is three graffiti alleyways."

Did I hear that right? "What?"

He chuckles and nods, "some of the younger pups got really into it, and they were really good, but kind of like what I got in trouble for, they would do it all over the territory. So Emerald found three different alleyways you can't see from the roads. They are just sides of brick apartment buildings. They have free range, and she cleans them off every month, giving them room to create new things. It keeps the pups out of trouble but creating, using their minds. It's a healthy outlet, as she explained. Now that took a week of begging and a lot of lip poking, but Pops caved like always. That was added about six months ago. And I have no doubt she is working her way up to adding something else. You can include your territory in that as well. I give you about 6 hours before she tells you to change or add something. Willing to bet money on that one."

Between everything he told me and my conversations with her today. There is no doubt in my mind she will do precisely that. I love to gamble, but the odds are not in my favor.  

I wave my hands, "good on that one but wow. Don't know what to say to all of that but wow."

"I know, girl still blows my mind every day and I've been in her life almost fifteen years."

His face is full-on longing now that I'm conversing with him and seeing his true self. I do feel awful for him, I understand why Emerald is punishing him and agree with it entirely, but damn, do I feel for this kid. But talking about her helps.

"You've talked about her challenging you, what was the biggest one?"

Declan grins over at me, "when she told me that I need to be the prime Alpha for everyone in our pack twenty and younger. I also needed to be in charge of patrol, dispatching warriors, soldiers, everything that comes with handling our forces. Mainly because how huge our pack is and to help relieve some things off Pops."

"With a pack this big makes sense, when did that happen?"

"Uhm, a few months after I turned sixteen, at first, Pops just put me in charge of the pack members, but after a few months, I proved myself. He gave me control over the rest. Part of the reason she's mad, well, that part she's more disappointed in me. I left Pops in charge of that for one night, and I blocked out everyone. I mean, everyone. I was with Jacks but still refused to let him in my head."

"Wanted to ask because takes a shit ton of work to do that but wasn't sure if you were up for sharing?"

He stands and skips a rock across the water, "Emerald. Yesterday morning she woke me up, we were laying in my bed talking but a huge issue our group has been avoiding got brought up...."

"Mates?"

Declan nods, "yeah she started crying. She knew it was a major possibility that it would change everything between us. Not so much me and the guys but her. Emerald has personal issues with the moon goddess, but she isn't one to step in the way or ask any of us to reject a mate. And with people in our position, even gemma and Beta, she-wolves tend to be way more jealous and wouldn't like her being around us the way she is. When I told the guys, Wes told me the only thing I didn't want to hear. We couldn't promise her anything since our wolfs have strong opinions and control us more when it comes to that. But I knew I could. I knew without a shadow of a doubt I could and would, and still will. Goliath knows it, too, he feels bad if he needs to hurt a girl, but he won't pretend, and neither will I. The thought of telling her that scared the shit out of me, and Emerald would have thought I was saying it to use my charm to relax her. I don't know, just was a lot, then Jacks made the stupid ass point that we should do who and what we want before we are tied down. I agreed a tiny bit and because I was in my damn head...just stupid. Fucking stupid, the only good thing about any of this is I didn't fuck the girl."

Though Emerald doesn't care about the last part, something tells me she will be a little happy about that fact. But as for the rest, I can see the pain on both sides. Sadly, I've been in a similar situation. 

"My mate was my best friend, but the night we found out, I was legit getting ready to screw some girl. To be honest, still don't know who or what her name is. She asked me about my friend at the time and like you said some bullshit line about how she was no one, blah blah and the clocked changed to midnight within that second and I could smell her. Not only could I smell her I knew she was in the hallway. The minute I open my door to confront her she ran for the fucking hills and the hurt I felt was unbareable betwe...just I know how feel."

"Did you get her back?"

Why did I do this to myself? I can feel the burning running up my skin, the anger scratching and crawling to get out. God, it's taking all I have not to kill her parents. 

I need to keep pushing. Emerald can help me fix him and bring him back to life. "Uhm, yeah. Put me through the wringer, but yeah, I did."

He tilts his head, reading me for a minute, then turns to the water, "how long ago?"

The kid is too wise, "almost 9. We had one year together before she was killed."

Declan glances at me for a quick second, "I didn't know you had mate when another Alpha tried taking over your territory....you were young, he thought you were naive but he didn't know what was going on in your pack, how many warriors and soldiers you had, or how skilled they were. You won, but you also were on the brink of dying. Remember that day vividly, Dad sent some of our guys to help with the after math on behalf of your old Beta, can't remember his name. Ruby was on of them since she was a doctor in the human world and you needed them."

Hearing that is like a punch in the gut. "I...I didn't know."

He gives me a reassuring smile, "you were injured pretty bad and hand responsibilites to handle.  She returned after two weeks, so you wouldn't have. She visited you, when you were still knocked out. The minute she walked back through our pack doors, all she said was one look at that man and anyone should have known better to go after his pack. That was it end of conversation, didn't seen her for two days because she just slept." 

Thank the lord, no one knew Topaz had her baby the night before. We didn't let a single soul know besides the staff and our Beta at the time, Antonio. 

Hate knowing she was there, and I didn't know. At the time, she didn't even know the Luna of our pack that lost her life was her distant cousin. I'm not even sure Ruby even knew her true bloodline. I think she would have told Emerald about something like that. 

Part of the reason my pack gives me so much lenience with my anger is that my love was killed brutally, and everyone thinks that our baby died with her. But he didn't. He has been put through complete hell, though, and I Feel good knowing she had faith in me, even without speaking to me. 

Intuition must run in the bloodline. Topaz had it, too. However, Emerald's is more substantial.

I'm in a complete mind fuck right now. I never talked about Topaz. I knew with Emerald, there wouldn't be an option not to. A chore that I'm not looking forward to because there's a lot that I'm not ready to openly speak on. 

I was also surprised that Declan knows even that much detail, considering he would have been roughly nine. The kid must have been eager to learn or looked up to his father, now that I believe. Unlike me, Declan has one hell of a dad. 

"Come on, Mom's done cooking and you never had roast and potatoes like hers can promise you that."

He taps my shoe and hops up. I followed suit, knowing he was doing the polite thing when he noticed talking about it wasn't an option for me. I am reviewing what he said and how Ruby came to assist my pack. It's funny how her words before knocking out were positive ones, but that would mean Emerald has heard about me.

"You said Ruby spoke of me, does that mean Emerald knew who I was?"

Declan grins at me, "Em studies Alphas in her free time. She has files on them all, nothing personal, just how they run things, and who they are as people. By now, you know her mouth. She needs to know whose buttons she can push and how far."

Of course, she does. I should have known that. It aligns with who she is and how that mouth is best if she does research. That explains how she knew so much about my territory and me, to a degree. She doesn't know me but knows me better than anyone else. See's right through my anger to who I used to be. 

"Anything she doesn't study?"

Declan truly thinks it over, "hm, nope. The girl is full of knowledge, from interesting to things no one should care or no. Like information on ants." 

I give him a dumbfounded look at why she would want to know about ants, and he laughs, "yep, ants! Then when she wouldn't shut up about it I told her I had a documentary on ants and turned on A Bug's Life. Let's just say she was pretty upset with me, though I still find it fucking hilarious."

And so do I. We laughed for the rest of the walk, and he told me about other random things she knew for no purpose. Find it charming, though, because she does essential research topics, but that girl's mind is always going. Hungry for anything. Admirable.