Chapter Seven

EOGHAN

The drive to Hawthorne took a little over two hours. Both of them were tired and really hoping they weren’t going to have to argue with the Hawthorne pack’s new Alpha. Eoghan had to admit, he was still jumpy around werewolves, but he wasn’t allowing Ari to feel his apprehension. He knew the weres would be able to sniff it on him the minute they got close, and he hated the idea, but for now, he wasn’t going to worry. It never did any good anyway.

After their meeting at the diner that morning, they’d gone back to the room, changed into hiking boots and taken a five-mile hike on a trail head just outside town. At this time of year, Bishop was pretty, in bloom with summer flowers, but damned hot. By the time they returned to the Charger, they were worn out, hotter than hell, ready for showers, and a long nap before dinner. They picked up salads at a local supermarket at his insistence. Fortunately for him, Ari hadn’t argued with him about the choice of fare and munched on his lettuce with a smile on his face as they sat at the small table in their room.

“I had a really nice day,” he said, glancing over at Ari after they gotten into the car and set out for their destination. They still had a few minutes before they were scheduled to arrive at the diner. They were running a little early but that was okay. It was always good to scope out the parking lot before the others arrived, just in case the Garcia family’s new Alpha left some men waiting outside in the car when he and Carmen went inside. Ari smiled at him, reaching across the console for his hand. Eoghan loved the fact that he was so affectionate. It was really nice when he made small gestures like that.

“I had a really nice day too,” he said. “Of course, the surprise blowjob in the shower was better than the hike, but I had a good day.”

“The surprise blowjob?” Eoghan repeated, smirking.

“Wouldn’t you call it that?” Ari asked, as Eoghan eased into the parking lot and headed for a spot near the front door. The restaurant appeared to be inside a gambling hall. Judging by the motorcycles and several less than luxury vehicles parked outside, Eoghan figured it was going to be pretty uninspiring inside as well, just as Carmen had warned them. Too bad. He was kind of looking forward to trying something different. Neither of them had eaten anything since the salads earlier, and he’d really been hoping for a nice appetizer or something.

“Well, the fact that it started out as a make out session and then you pinned me up against the tile, I’d say no, you should have figured I wasn’t done with you,” Eoghan said. “Sliding to my knees was simply an honest next step.”

“An honest next step,” Ari repeated.

“Now you’re being obtuse.”

Ari burst out laughing, leaning so close he was about to kiss him when someone rapped on the window, making both men yank their hands away from each other and sit back.

Eoghan turned and looked up into the anxious face of Carly Rusch in profile. She was staring at the restaurant, probably trying to see in through the front door, which was the only window he could see. She wasn’t alone in her anxiousness. All around them there was nothing but desert. Hawthorne truly was a one-horse town. Eoghan rolled down the window and Carly turned to look down at him, smiling broadly. She bent so she could see Ari too.

“Hey, guys, come on. We’re already inside.”

Eoghan breathed out a sigh of relief that she hadn’t seen him about to be kissed by his partner. He rolled up his window and was getting out of the car when another vehicle pulled in a few spaces down from them. Inside the front passenger seat sat Carmen Garcia. Her long, dark tresses shone under the fluorescent lights in the parking lot, and as he and Ari climbed out of their car, she and a very large male with dark hair did as well. The man shared Hispanic heritage with the girl, and it was clear to Eoghan that they were related. Ari came to stand beside him on the sidewalk with Carly and they waited until the pair spotted them and walked over.

“Ms. Garcia,” Eoghan said. “I’m Eoghan Sapphire. We met the other night, but not under the best circumstances. My condolences to your family.” He held out a hand and she shook it before taking Ari’s. “This is my partner, Aristotle Brown, and I don’t know if you know Marshal Carly Rusch, one of the I.S.R. marshals from here in Hawthorne.”

“Yes, of course,” she said, taking the hand Carly offered before turning to the man beside her, larger than life. “This is my brother, Juan Garcia. He’s the new Alpha.”

“Ah,” Eoghan said, holding out his hand. “Nice to meet you, Alpha.”

“Nice to meet you both and you, Marshal Rusch.” Garcia shook all their hands. He checked his watch before looking at Carly. “Where are the others?”

“Inside,” she said, moving toward the door before looking back at the tall Alpha. “My chief, my partner, Evan Chastain, Alvin Walters, and his grandson, Edward.”

Eoghan was sure he noticed the ghost of a smile crossing Juan’s face before he sobered and nodded. “Good,” Juan said. “Let’s get this negotiation over with tonight. No one wants war.”

Eoghan exchanged a glance with Ari who looked as relieved to hear that as he felt. He did wonder how Tyler had known where they were. Tracking her phone maybe. They entered the restaurant which wasn’t large. As soon as they did, the unmistakable smell of thick cigarette smoke billowed out at them, followed by the scent of greasy food. He couldn’t decide whether it was coming from the dark brown, patterned carpet or the yellowing paint on the ancient walls wherever paneling wasn’t present. The place was loud with the constant chattering of patrons and the sound of coins dropping into metal dishes attached to the slot machines.

Juan leaned down to say something in Carmen’s ear and she looked up at him before shaking her head. She noticed Eoghan watching and leaned close to talk so she could be heard over the din.

“My brother would like to get the others and go to a different place. He’s afraid this smell isn’t good for the baby and it’s so loud, he’s not sure we’d be able to be heard in here. Would that be okay with you?”

“That sounds great,” Eoghan practically yelled to be heard over the noise.

“There’s another place which has outdoor seating and really good food,” she said before pointing. “Is that Alpha Walters?”

Eoghan turned and spotted four people approaching. Alvin, his grandson, Edward, Deputy Chief Washington, and Carly’s partner, Evan. They all shook hands and then Juan leaned close to Alvin.

“Would it be okay with you if we went somewhere else?”

“We were going to suggest the same thing,” Walters replied. “If I recall there’s a place which has good sandwiches, if anyone wants to eat, that is.”

“We can eat after our business is settled,” Juan said. “I think you’re talking about Pepper’s Place.”

“That’s the one,” Walters said. “We’ll follow you.”

“Okay.” As Juan turned away, Eoghan noticed how Edward’s gaze slid up and down Juan’s tall form, and he almost choked.

When he turned to look at Ari, his partner was staring at the two men with a surprised look on his face. Clearly, he’d noticed Edward’s glance as well.

Holy Crap . Eoghan couldn’t wait to get into the Charger where they could talk alone. He looked at the others. “We’ll follow you.”

They all walked out to the parking lot and separated, getting into their vehicles. Eoghan turned and put a finger to his lips when Ari opened his mouth and started talking. Werewolves had unbelievably good hearing and he really didn’t want to say anything when they could be overheard even ensconced within their vehicle. As soon as they’d all pulled out and the Charger was last in line following the other cars, Ari punched him on the arm.

Eoghan turned to him, laughing. “ Ow! What?”

Ari was grinning widely. “Did you see Edward check Juan Garcia out?”

“Yeah, I saw that,” Eoghan agreed. “It makes me wonder if we’ve got the real reason for Edward’s refusal to marry Carmen right at all. Is it possible he’s gay and we’ve been all wrong about this?”

“Well, I think we’re about to find out,” Ari said as he pointed to the two vehicles in front of them pulling into parking spaces in front of a restaurant. They’d driven less than three blocks. It was painted bright red with white trim, and they looked like a cross between a large shipping container and an old-fashioned cable car. Outside, two seating areas were present, one with a covered canopy to keep it in shade and another with picnic tables set up in front where the sun would beat down during hot Nevada desert days. Since the picnic tables were unoccupied and the sun had gone down, that’s where they headed.

Eoghan watched Edward meet Juan’s eyes and the longing in both men was clear. Maybe, this was going to be easier than they’d thought. Then again, he had no idea how werewolves felt about gay men, especially when one had just taken over their pack as Alpha. Garcia was a strapping man and in wolf form, he was most likely big and strong. Eoghan didn’t know exactly how an Alpha became one or if there had to be a fight or a vote, but either way, if someone challenged Garcia, he’d have no choice but to meet the challenge any way he could. If Juan and he had to hide their desires for each other, it would be a terrible thing and if they gave into them, how long would it take before they were sniffed out? He didn’t think it would take very long at all and somehow, Eoghan didn’t think an Alpha would deny his mate whether he was gay or not. By definition, they were tough bastards.

“Well now, would anyone care to order somethin’ before we get this show on the road?” Washington drawled.

“I think we should get right to it,” Alvin said, turning to look at Juan Garcia. “First let me say to you both, I’m sorry about your grandfather. He and I were close friends once.”

“Thank you,” Juan said. He glanced around at the rest of them. “I’m also anxious to get started with this. I loved my grandfather, but I can’t say I agree with all his policies and we surely don’t want to keep Galen any longer than we have to.”

“You could just give him back and that would settle this whole thing,” Edward Walters said.

Juan looked at him and it was clear that the last thing he wanted to do was to fight with the only man there who had a vested interest in him not marrying his sister, Carmen. He bowed his head before looking back at him with a sincere, searching gaze. “You’re right and that is what I intend to do if we come out of all of this with a peaceful arrangement tonight.”

“What would that look like?” Eoghan asked. “I’m sure you have terms in mind. What can you offer Alpha Walters that would bring an end to this?”

“Garcia can offer me my grandson back and he can offer his sister Carmen to my oldest grandson as a wife,” Alvin said. “That’s what he can offer. I ain’t negotiating this all over again. I already had this conversation with your granddaddy, boy, and in our society with our laws, a conversation with a handshake betrothal holds just as much value as if you were already married.”

“As much as I admire Ms. Garcia, I’m afraid that’s entirely impossible, sir,” Edward said, speaking up for the first time.

“Because she’s carrying another man’s child?” Alvin bellowed, slamming his hand down on the table. “I told you that doesn’t matter, boy. You can adopt her child as long as the real father ain’t in the picture.”

Edward dragged his gaze away from his grandfather’s angry face and looked over at Carmen. “I’m so sorry, Carmen. That’s not the real reason I can’t marry you. It’s what your grandfather Oscar chose to tell everyone, but that’s not the reason.”

A bright yellow flared around Carmen’s brown irises before they returned to normal. “What is the reason, Edward?”

He turned and looked directly at Juan before looking back at Carmen. “Because you’re not the Garcia I want to marry.”

“What are you talking about?” Carly Rusch asked.

Edward glanced over at the marshals as though he’d completely forgotten they were there.

“He doesn’t know what he’s talking about,” Alvin said. He turned to his grandson. “We’re not discussing that any further.”

“ That , Grandfather, is the only way.”

“I think I’m missing something,” Chief Washington said. “You said there’s another Garcia you want to marry. Can we find our way to a peaceful solution to this problem or can’t we?”

“Yes, there is,” Juan said.

Eoghan and Ari exchanged a glance, knowing what was coming and having to brace for the impact of it.

“What is it?” Evan Chastain asked.

“It’s not an acceptable solution, Edward,” Alvin said. There was an underlying growl in the Alpha’s voice that made the hair on the back of Eoghan’s neck stand up at attention.

“It has to be, grandfather. Juan is Alpha of his pack now. The only way for us to get Galen back is to allow us to marry,” Edward said. His voice was pleading.

“Allow who to marry?” Carly asked.

Juan sighed. “Edward and I are in love with each other. We have been for many years.” He turned to his sister. “I’m so sorry, Carmen. If it hadn’t been for the promise our grandfathers made to each other before either of you two were born, Edward and I would have been mated and married already. We are really very much in love.”

“That sounds like a good solution to me,” Chief Washington said.

“Well, it’s not,” Alvin said.

“That’s because you’re a homophobe, grandfather,” Edward said, a slight plea in his voice. “I apologize. I know you’re the Alpha, but it has to be said.”

The Alpha frowned, shaking his head. “Believe what you want about me but that’s not the reason, Edward,” Alvin said. “The reason is because being gay and a pack Alpha is asking for trouble. Juan is going to be challenged every time he turns around once he comes out but he’s not the only one affected here.” He reached out and put his hand on Edward’s shoulder. Edward looked down at the connection but didn’t pull away. When he looked up, Alvin caught his gaze. “Edward, whenever Juan gets challenged, it’ll put you right in the crossfire. I heard of a gay Alpha and his mate who were crucified by their pack…crucified. Imagine it. In this day and age, two men were crucified because the Alpha declared that males in his pack wouldn’t turn any wolves away, even if they were gay. So, his pack made an example of him and the love of his life.”

“Alpha, respectfully, that’s mine and Edward’s choice to make,” Juan said. He looked at Edward. “Do you understand the risk of being with me as my mate?”

Edward instantly reached across the table and took Juan’s hand. “Yes. We’ve discussed this. I’ll stand with you, my love. I want to be with you. I will die for you.”

“It will never come to that, mi amore .”

The sound of motorcycle engines coming up the road had everyone craning their necks to see a long row of bikers turning the corner and coming right at them. It was dark and the parking lot was empty. Eoghan looked at his watch. Pepper’s was getting ready to close. He prayed that the line of bikers would drive past and keep on going. Unfortunately, they turned into the parking lot and began pulling into spaces. All the werewolves at the table stood at the same time, and Eoghan exchanged a glance with Ari, noting the alarm in his expression.

“What’s happenin’?” the chief drawled.

“Werewolves,” Juan replied, looking directly at the bikers as they were getting off their bikes.

Eoghan counted six big men dressed in leathers, praying that Juan was wrong and they hadn’t come here looking for a fight. He glanced at Carmen. “We need to get you inside.”

“No one’s going to hurt me, Marshal. That’s Tyler.” She pointed at the largest of the bikers. He had a long, red beard to match his hair and a big gut. The way he was glaring at her wasn’t friendly at all. For once, Eoghan was glad they were werewolves rather than vampires who moved with lightning speed.

“Who’s Tyler?” Alvin asked.

“Her boyfriend,” Juan replied, a growl down deep in his throat.

Eoghan glanced at him, noting the yellow circle flaring in his eyes.

Carmen turned to look at her brother. “How did you know, Juan? We haven’t told anyone.”

Juan smiled fondly at her. “You’re my sister, preciosa . Of course, I knew who your boyfriend was. I can smell the baby in your womb, and I’ve known Tyler Vallejo since we were boys together. He’s not going to fight me and he’s not going to hurt you. I’m sure he just came here to make sure Alvin Walters doesn’t harm me or you.”

“I’m not so sure about that,” Ari said. “Look.”

Eoghan watched the men walking toward them. They were pulling off jackets, tossing them to the ground as they began stripping.

“Get inside, Carmen!” Juan said, before pulling at his own jacket. “I will not argue!”

Eoghan reached for the gun he wore on his belt, swearing to himself as he realized all he and Ari had with them was the less lethal ammunition Wordy had given them. In the Charger across the parking lot, he had the backpack with the werewolf spray Wordy had craftily formulated just for them. But right now at least, they were helpless other than the ammunition they carried. It’d knock a werewolf off their feet, but they’d simply get right back up again. They were screwed in a fight and with six biker werewolves in between them and the car, they were in grave danger if they decided to attack. Once again terror rose in him, swift and scary.

“Marshals!”

Eoghan turned to find Edward staring at them. “Please, take Carmen inside where she’ll be safe.”

“Tyler won’t fight me,” Carmen said before turning to her boyfriend. “Tyler!” she shouted. “You and your boys, back off!”

The bikers were still coming, closing the distance, fifty feet away now. Stripping and tossing clothes as they walked.

“Please!” Juan said to Eoghan and Ari. The yellow around his irises flashed neon. “Take my sister inside .”

Eoghan knew there was no way he was a match for Carmen if she got defiant and didn’t want to go inside. Werewolves were incredibly strong, even pregnant ones.

“I’m not going in there when you’re out here fighting my boyfriend!” Carmen yelled at her brother.

“Carmen!” Tyler yelled as he got closer. “Listen to your Alpha and go inside right now! You’re not fighting in your condition!”

By this time, Tyler had his shirt, off and Eoghan was staring at his broad chest and bulging gut. He looked terrifying and huge and everything he wished he never had to face again.

“Go!” he growled as he stepped out of his shoes and shed his pants, frighteningly quick.

“Fine.” Carmen whirled around and faced the humans, gesturing to the five of them to make haste. “This idiot and his ridiculous friends have decided to settle our business by fighting. We all need to get inside, now.”

Eoghan exchanged a glance with Ari and nodded. With only a walk-up window, they bolted along with the other humans and the pregnant werewolf, charging for the side of the small restaurant where Eoghan had seen a door. Chastain got there first and raised his fist to pound on the door but it flew open before he got a chance. Two Hispanic employees dressed in dirty aprons and chef’s hats were standing there, gesturing for them to hurry.

“We’ve seen those bikers before,” one of them said in heavily accented English as they all stepped in. “Very bad men.”

When Eoghan realized that he could see everyone but Ari in the small building, he pivoted, horrified to see his partner standing outside holding the door open. “What are you doing? Get in here and lock the door!”

“I need to get our backpacks!” Ari said excitedly. “Give me the keys!” He looked back over his shoulder as Eoghan ran back to the open door.

“Get your ass in here!”

“They’re outnumbered two to one, Eoghan. Stay inside with the others. I’ll go around back. They won’t see me. Give me the fucking keys!”

“You’re insane.”

“Give him your car keys, son,” Washington growled. “If y’all have somethin’ that’ll even up this fight, he’s got to get it.”

“Thank you, sir,” Ari said. “Listen to him, Eoghan.”

“You’ll get yourself killed.” He felt paralyzed with fear for Ari.

“And we’re all dead if there’s a war,” Carmen said. “If Tyler and his thug friends kill my brother and Edward, they’ll rule the Hawthorne pack with an iron fist. We’ll have war forever and the I.S.R. will have no choice but to send every marshal for a thousand miles to cull both packs and wipe us all out.” Tears streamed down her face. “Tyler’s been furious ever since he found out my grandfather kidnapped Galen Walters. He didn’t know about the contract he made between my grandfather and Alvin. I never believed he’d go this far.”

“They’re right, Sapphire,” Washington said. “Now, give your partner the goddamned keys and close the goddamned door.”

Howls started outside the building, and Eoghan reluctantly complied, reaching into his pocket and handing the keys to Ari. He grabbed him by the arm as he started to shut the door. “I love you. Please be careful,” Eoghan whispered.

“Will do, love.”

Ari timed the shutting of the door with the next horrifying howl.