Preparations

STANLEY POV

"Where's Mike," I ask as my mate buries herself against my chest.

I quickly wrap my arms around her. Worry pricks at me instantly and my ears check for the steady rhythm of our pup's heartbeat. Once I have reassured myself that my family is intact I relax a little.

"He's with Carmen," Sam says as the rest of the pack comes filing into the living room.

"Why the urgent text, Sam? Is something wrong," Finley asks and I look at my sister-in-law's worried face.

Daniel throws his arm over her shoulders and Tabitha reluctantly pulls herself out of my arms.

I watch her curiously with my arms still a little outstretched as she tucks a piece of her blonde hair behind her ears. I spot the dried trail of tears on her face and I am anxious again immediately.

"Carmen has injuries on her back from her ex-boyfriend. She told Mike about them and he asked us to look at them," Tabitha says as she gestures between her and Sam.

Mariah steps away from Benji with a deep fr