“It’s okay. I think I need you to goad me a little. I feel like I don’t mind seeing my father. I just don’t want to see the rest of the pack.”“It’s the rest of the pack you have an issue with?”“Yes. They didn’t want me.”“Whereas James and your father remain to be your family, no matter what.”“Yes.”Polly was relieved. They were actually on the same page. They understood each other well. When he kissed her, she didn’t resist.Jared felt that James said it right. He’s a lucky bastard that she changed her mind about him.He did write a letter after only a week, and he made her check it. She didn’t feel like changing anything on it, though. Its tone was just as he was. His father would be assured that he, in fact, wrote it. So, they sent it.Jared didn’t think he would feel nervous about receiving a reply to it. What if his father won’t? Fuck. Now he felt like he shouldn’t have sent a letter. Polly was amused by his restlessness. He was acting like a child and sure, it looked a little
One time, there was this incident during monthly evaluations.Polly was done with her matches, winning two. Whereas Jared remained the popular choice to be challenged. His name was also included in the random draws for the third match. It was a new option. If you don’t want to directly challenge a mentor, you can opt to challenge a random mentor.It was already mid-afternoon and Jared has just finished a match. He didn’t bother leaving the match area, though. Who knows if the next one would also challenge him?He raised an eyebrow when the next participant turned out to be Ren. The young man chose the random draw and Jared still waited. He would have dumb luck if he’s still chosen at this point and in such manner. Frankly, he’s already tired.Lo and behold, it was his name on the piece of paper. He exhaled as he contemplated. Should he withdraw? When he glanced towards Polly, he found her looking at Ren instead and with a worried look on her face. Seeing that, he made his decision.He
Overall, his treatment of Ren did improve and the rest of the team didn’t dare to comment on it. One time, when they turned to Polly with questioning gazes, she simply placed a finger on her lips, gesturing for them to be quiet about it. She told Jared when they went home, and his expression was a mix of horror and embarrassment.“I know Leo. He would have teased the two of you if he had the chance, and I thought you wouldn’t like to hear what he’ll come up with.”“Damn. Thanks for sparing me that experience.” He groaned, having been around Leo enough to know what kind of jokes he come up with.Polly tiptoed and planted a kiss on his cheek when they reached the front of their house. He raised an eyebrow. She didn’t even wait for them to get in?“What?”“One of these days, I’m going to kiss you in front of many people.”She actually considered it and has one request. “Just a peck.”He chuckled and was glad she’s becoming more comfortable with it. It’s such a normal thing between mates.
He raised an eyebrow when she finally aired her thoughts. She simply glanced at him before grabbing a pot and turning the stove on.“It’s the truth. If Alpha Clyde gave me authority over a few men, I fear I would treat them the way I did when I was in Blood Moon.”“But you could treat them differently. You know better now.”He shook his head. “I don’t think so. You might think I have loosened up because of how I treat my current trainees. They’re young, inexperienced and needing guidance. I don’t treat them the way I would actual warriors who are tasked to protect the pack. I’ll have higher expectations, and I’ll put them through harsher trainings.”“Can’t you just treat them like you treat young trainees, though?”He shook his head. “I can’t do that. That would be taking my tasks lightly and not seriously. It might lead to grievous consequences and that’s not something I want.”She sighed. Alright. She won’t push it. She understands him.“Sometimes, I wonder what your childhood is li
They continued to work together and they were given three new trainees.“How come? Only two of you completed it.” Jared wasn’t complaining, just curious.“There are more youngsters nowadays. Hana, Leo and Gareth are from the same batch. They would all complete the program next year.”“Alright. Introduce yourselves.”Her lip twitched and smiled at the newbies. Her mate looked intimidating, but the shock factor was helpful in the long run. She hoped they wouldn’t be too soft. She would prefer obedient trainees, who wouldn’t ask too many questions. Hmm. Okay, she’ll allow questions. She’d been there, so she understands. They had to learn. She suddenly remembered her first day of training. She was plenty stupid and doesn’t know much.“New trainees have a different schedule during their first year. You have classes to attend two days a week. The rest of the weekdays, you need to show up here and learn some basics.”“When do they join the others? To spar?” Jared asked her.“That would depen
“Going to the city, of course. Maybe we can stay at a hotel. I’ll ravage you, then.”“What else have we not done in the city?”“There’s still a lot of things you haven’t seen. You’ll be surprised. I promise to show you things you’ve never experienced before.”She took a deep breath as he enveloped her in his arms and started caressing her back. “Fine. I believe you.”Even before they left the territory, he already presented her with some sweets and a bouquet of fresh flowers. She was prepared this time, having bought several gifts for him, too. Heck, there’s not much they use their money on so gifting each other was the norm.They enjoyed themselves and Polly became somewhat wistful. When she found out that he’s her mate, she never had thought that they would live simpler lives. But here they are. She’s very thankful.More months passed and they had an incident one night. The men, including Jared, were called to their assigned positions. It wasn’t exactly an attack, but when the prowl
Jared frowned but bent down to accommodate his father’s request. He seemed to study his son’s face.“I can see it. You’re more at ease and there’s peace inside you. That’s a good thing.”Jared returned his smile. “It sure is.”“I wish the same for your brother. Help him out if you can.”Jared exchanged a look with James. “Not sure how, but I will.”“We’ll be fine, father.”“That’s good to hear. Be good to your mates. I’ll be seeing your mother and sister now.”Polly lightly gasped and covered her mouth. Damn. The former alpha closed his eyes and took deep breaths. Jared took her into his arms as they paid their respects.“He’s not . . . is he?” Polly couldn’t be sure. They waited a few minutes, but the brothers already knew even before James went to check.“He’s gone.” His pronouncement made Polly conflicted and uncomfortable.She looked up, observing her mate’s reaction. Jared let out a deep breath. He was frowning as he stared at his father’s serene face.James sat on a nearby chair
She found his statement to be odd but she didn’t think too much of it. She closed her eyes and fell asleep almost instantly. Jared played with her hair as he thought back to his brother’s question. Knowing James, he was probably serious. His lip twitched. Heck, it would seem like his brother didn’t want the burden. It certainly looked like he’s not enjoying it. It was absurd. His sense of responsibility was urging him to take the opportunity, but a part of him was satisfied with what he has now.Polly slept but it was a restless one. Her dreams were too bothersome, almost nightmarish. James’ words haunted her. Despite knowing more about Jared, she couldn’t be sure what he’ll decide to do.When she woke up in the morning, she was alone in the room. There’s a note on the bedside table and a tray of food. He said he’s out with his brother. Ugh. What should she do? She didn’t have the appetite so she flopped back on the bed.Jared. She can’t help but sigh as she thought of him. He has cha