The Beginning of Something

Elise is Fourteen Years Old

Elise had just gotten back from hiking with her family. Vacation was fun, but I wished EJ was here. My phone finally had service again and Tristan was calling me. My mom teased, “Do you think Melanie stole his phone again?”

I smiled knowing it was likely since she was bored earlier. Melanie normally always had something going on. Our teachers were already saying she was a genius because she was ridiculously smart.

I answered my phone, “Is this Tristan or Melanie?”

Tristan snorted, “Why would it be Ladybug?”

I laughed, “It was earlier. She took your phone and called me.” Jason announced, “We need to talk.” So, I guess it was both McAlister boys.

I frowned as I ran up to my room in our vacation house. Once inside I asked, “What’s going on guys?”

Tristan asked, “Has EJ said anything to you about thinking we are taking advantage of the partial Fairies?”

I questioned, “What are you talking about?”

Jason answered, “Dad just got a text from Alpha Eric saying that unless something was an emergency, he didn’t want us to ask them to pop us somewhere or use their powers.”

My jaw dropped, “What? That doesn’t make sense. EJ pops to me all the time.”

Jason snorted, “And he will keep doing so. You’re his mate so it’s different. If they offer to pop or use their powers it’s different; however, they still only want bigger things to be an emergency. Do they feel like we were taking advantage of them? Have they said anything like that to you?”

I thought about it then answered, “They have never said anything like that to me. I’ll talk to EJ.”

Tristan quickly replied, “No, don’t. That would only make it worse. They might feel like we are trying to use you to change their mind.”

I sighed, “Guys, you know Haley Conners is the nicest lady ever. There’s no way she just wants anyone hurting unless it’s an emergency.”

Tristan sighed, “But if Alpha Eric feels like we are relying on them too much he’s protecting his mate and family. We just wondered if EJ said something to you because I’ve never heard him say anything. Jase said he’s never heard Alexander say anything either.”

Jason snorted, “He’s a quiet guy, but I’m sure he would’ve said something.”

Alexander was quiet and he tended to be a bit more emotional.

Finally, I said, “They both would’ve said something to me, and I have no idea what this is about.”

Tristan sighed, “Alpha Lucas said the same thing about it though. He and Alpha Eric are on the same page.”

I assured them, “I’ll go ask dad.” Jason said, “I’d hate it if I upset Alexander.” I reasoned, “You didn’t. He’d have told me. Or EJ would’ve. It must have been some other pack. Maybe it was Blue Moon that was upset, and Eric just agreed to present a united front.” Jason exhaled, “I hope so. Alexander’s my best friend.”

I asked, “What did Mel say about it?”

Jason said, “That was the weirdest thing. She got really quiet then went out to her spot to dance, with her stuffed wolf of course. I love that she just carries that thing around still to prove a point to our pack.”

I bit my lip knowing that wasn’t why she carried it around at all. It was because she still had a giant crush on her Xander.

Tristan said, “It’s not the weirdest thing, Jase. Go outside.”

Jason snorted, “I can tell when I’m not wanted.”

I heard Tristan moving around before he spoke again. “Ok, he’s outside.” I laughed, “How does he not know Mel has a huge crush on Alexander?”

Tristan laughed, “He just doesn’t see her at the age where she can have a crush.”

I snorted, “You've known since she was three years old.”

Tristan laughed, “I’m closer with EJ than Alexander. Ladybug knows I’m not going to embarrass her and tell her crush about it.”

I pointed out, “Jason wouldn’t tell either.”

Tristan said, “I know that, but Ladybug is Ladybug. Her explanation of it all is built in logic and I’m not about to refute any of it.”

I informed him, “She was bored earlier.” Tristan said, “She’s been in a mood since Wednesday.” I was confused but shrugged that off. I sighed, “Well, I’m going to talk to my parents. I’ll text you later.”

I ran downstairs and found my parents sitting at the table. My dad smiled, “Hi, sweetie.”

I didn’t bother with pleasantries. I asked him, “Did you know about Eric’s text?”

My dad sighed, “Drake told me. I just don’t think it can be directed at us because EJ would’ve said something. Alexander and Jason are so close I have to think he’d have said something as well. Or both would’ve spoken to you. EJ can’t and won’t keep things from you. Alexander is the quietest one but to say nothing to you or Jason? I just don’t see it. Cassie would’ve told you too.”

I nodded, “I agree. It sounded like both T and Jase’s feelings were hurt.”

My dad sighed, “We have been through it with Haley and Emmaline. Your mom and Emmaline are still good friends. Haley always included them in her in….”

He trailed off.

I snorted, “I know it’s called Bad Ass Girl Gang, dad.”

My dad smiled, “I just think we’d have known. I’m surprised Alpha Eric didn’t call. I know he’s busy, but this has to be about Emmaline or Haley.”

My mom told us, “You’re discounting something. They could be trying to protect us all. If it’s known Haley, Emmaline or their pups pop in and out of our pack at our beck and call someone could use that information to attack us or someone else.”

That was true. Dad sighed, “Plus, with the little girl with the strongest sight on the way they are changing their security up. We’ve all been preparing for her to come along for a while now.”

My mom nodded, “Add that with Jade Lyon’s ability to take people’s powers. It’s a big motivator to attack. Then we have little Aria as the strongest Soul Searcher in their history. The allies know that Jacob is the strongest Water Fairy ever, but that hasn’t gotten outside of our group yet. I think they are trying to protect us all.”

My dad conceded, “That does sound more like them than any other theory we’ve come up with.”

It did. It was the best theory out of all of it. I quickly texted the idea to Tristan. He was relieved and even added that Jason was too.

My youngest brother Cooper came in and wanted to play with my dad, so they left. I asked my mom, “Did Sam tell you anything was up with Mel? T and Jase mentioned she’d been off.”

My mom laughed, “I heard she’s been more like a bug than a lady this week. Sam doesn’t know why though.”

I pressed, “Do you know what led up to it?”

My mom thought about it, “I guess she was around Charline and her friends, but last I knew they didn’t have a problem with each other.”

I winced, “Oh no. This might be my fault.” My mom tilted her head, “I don’t see how that’s possible.”

I sat down, “Charline wants to go to the school dance. She asked me about Alexander which I mentioned it to EJ. He had me tell Alexander, so I bet he asked Charline to the dance. If Melanie heard about it, she’s probably upset about that.”

My mom reassured me, “That’s not your fault. Alexander is a big boy. From what I know of him he doesn’t do things he doesn’t want. I know Ladybug has a crush, but that’s not your....”

I cut her off, “It’s not even like he likes Charline. I didn’t really think he would ask her.”

My mom replied, “He’s nice to her when they see each other.”

I shrugged, “Alexander is nice to the vast majority of people.” My mom laughed, “I suppose that is true. He’s the quieter one, but still doesn’t do things he doesn’t want.”

I frowned, “I just really didn’t think he’d ask her. I just promised Charline I’d pass along the message to EJ.”

Mom assured me, “You didn’t do anything wrong. Besides, Melanie will be ok and get over it. If it’s as you say it’s not like Alexander is going to date Charline.”

I snorted, “I seriously doubt it. I really thought he found her annoying.” My mom shrugged, “Apparently not.” I was pretty sure I was right.

I theorized, “Maybe he just wanted to come. Cassie is going with Jason and EJ is going with me.”

My mom acknowledged, “That could be it too. Those three tend to be together.”

I nodded, “I think that has to be it.” My mom smiled, “She would be the first girl he’s shown interest in. So, I’m sure she’s over the moon about it.”

I cringed, “Which means she’s probably bragging. Poor Mel.”

My mom patted my shoulder, “She’ll be ok. Especially if Alexander is just going with Charline as friends.”

I sighed, “I still feel bad. This is all my fault.” My mom nudged me, “They aren’t getting married or anything. It’s just a dance.” I nodded, “That’s true.”

I hugged myself acknowledging that I missed EJ. I hadn’t seen him since I left. I was still confused about this new mandate they had made. I was annoyed that everyone asked me not to say anything about it. I didn’t know how to broach the topic without EJ knowing how everyone on our side felt.

I knew EJ or any of his family would pop to me no questions asked because of EJ. I just hoped my mom’s theory was the right one as opposed to Jason and Tristan’s. I would hate it if EJ or any of his siblings felt taken advantage of. I got up from the table. I was unsettled and would be until I heard EJ’s voice.

I went upstairs and grabbed my phone, knowing I could call him and feel better. I was right. Hearing his voice settled everything inside me. I was ready for his uncle’s coronation. My dad told me I couldn't forget anything. No one outside of the Hackura had ever been at their coronations that talked about it.

I did find out that the situation was him following what was said, which meant it wasn’t any of his siblings. That would make the McAlister’s feel better. I talked to EJ until someone knock on his door. After we hung up and I immediately called Tristan.

He answered, “Hey Elise, what’s up?”

I told him, “I didn’t tell EJ anything about what you said, but we briefly talked about it. Alexander is upset about the new rule. EJ even said he’s abiding people’s wishes. It’s none of the Conners pup’s requests.”

Tristan let out a sigh of relief.

He said, “At least that’s something, Jase has been beside himself going over everything he’s ever asked Alexander to do.”

I continued, “According to EJ, he’s pissed about it. So at least we know it’s not their call.”

Tristan blew out a breath, “Yeah, they are our friends. It’s good to know they don’t feel that way. It sucks though. We gave our word to dad that we would only use it in emergencies.”

I changed the subject, “Is Mel in a better mood?”

Tristan said, “A little. She was super jazzed after she came back from dancing all morning. She ran past us all to shower. I have no idea why but she was pretty excited.”

I reasoned, “It must have been an inspiring dance.”

Tristan agreed, “Yup, you know how she is when she choreographs a dance she loves.”

I smiled, “I do.”

She was adorable. Tristan told me, “She did my science project.” I gasped, “What? That’s high school level.”

Tristan laughed, “I know. She’s too damn smart for her own good. She did it without me even saying anything. She just told me all about the math and the experiment. It’s pretty good. Jared told me she’s been helping with his homework since she was three. They have some deal worked out. She’s going to run the world someday.”

I laughed, “I’ll bet she will. She’ll just dance her way to the top.”

Tristan sighed, “My mom wants dad to think about letting Mel go to Juilliard. Or at least having her apply.”

I replied, “Your dad would never let that happen.”

Tristan was silent for a minute. Then said, “It might be safer to have her all the way in New York so he’s considering it. Just so she’s out of here then we can figure out if Alpha Ezra would make a move.” That was big.

He continued, “Mom met a couple that’s from New York. Their daughter, Tiffany, is in competitions with Melanie all the time. They said they’d be willing to host her in their pack. Her dad’s the Male Lead Warrior and he said he’d talk to his Alpha about it. There’s no way an Alpha would have a problem with it though.”

I questioned, “Does Melanie even want to go?”

Tristan laughed, “She waffles. You know she gets homesick on two day competitions.”

I admitted, “I do know that.” He acknowledged, “I think she does want to go, it’s just a long way away from…” I finished, “Her Xander.” Tristan said, “Bingo.” I sighed, “Well it is Juilliard. Alexander wouldn’t ever keep her from her dreams, plus he can pop wherever he wants. If he is in fact her Xander.”

Tristan grumbled, “She kicked me in the shin for saying if he was hers. I don’t know what to do at this point. Her entire heart is wrapped up in Alexander being her mate. They haven’t even met. Alexander left a hoodie in our car, and she has it. She even wears it to sleep. I don’t know if we should encourage this anymore. It’s going to break her heart if he’s not hers.”

I pointed out, “He could very well be hers.”

Tristan teased, “Because your future pack needs to be more stacked? Alexander and Melanie fighting together would just be a sight to see. I mean she’s nine and I’m a little scared of her when she fights. With Alexander I’d never want to face him after seeing him fight.”

I agreed, “He’s good.”

Tristan mused, “He might meet his match in Mel. Dad FINALLY took Ladybug to a training session. She kicked three Warriors’ asses before he told her the session was over. He’s already texting your dad trying to see who they should have train her. Right now, it’s him and my grandpa. Your dad suggested that your grandpa and my grandpa train her.”

I asked, “My grandpa would train Mel?”

Former Alpha’s trained their pups and grandpups, but they usually kept it in the family. Tristan said, “He agreed that if that’s what they thought was best. He watched her train today. She’s just too damn good at whatever she wants to do.”

I laughed, “I got her a present. She’s still into the Thoroughbred series, right?”

Tristan snorted, “Yes, very much so. She wants mom to take her to the books store so she can get the next one.”

I warned, “Tell your mom to delay that trip because I already got it for her.” Tristan said, “On it.” I laughed, “Thanks, T.”

Tristan replied, “You know any McAlister would do anything for our big sister. You’re family to us. Ladybug adores you and wants to be just like you.”

I blushed, “You’re so sweet.”

We talked a little longer before we hung up.

I loved my family, but the next two days refused to end. Finally, the day EJ was popping to me arrived. I grabbed my dress and fixed my hair. When I came downstairs my dad smiled, “You look beautiful, sweetie. You know that EJ won’t be here for a little bit. He’ll pop in the second he’s allowed, but you’re ready early.”

Ray snorted, “The little Luna is counting down the hours just like the young Alpha.”

I stuck my tongue out. My dad laughed, “Ray will be going with you.”

I shrugged, “Ok.” Ray said, “Unlike last time, I will be fast enough, so the little Alpha wolf doesn’t pop away before I get a hold of him.”

I looked at my dad pleading, “Will you consider letting EJ and I go to the dance with just us?”

Ray growled. I sighed, “It’s our territory, with our pack. You know EJ and his guard will be there. Please, just think about it?”

My mom touched my dad's shoulder, “It is in our territory Peter.” My dad sighed, “I’ll think about it, but EJ’s guard will be with him not her.” I squealed, “Thanks daddy!” Ray grumbled but I didn’t care.

My mom winked at me which meant my dad was going to let me go somewhere without Ray. I knew EJ’s guards would be there, but they stayed hidden. Ray did too, but we could smell him. I didn’t mind Ray. In fact, I really liked him. I just wanted some alone time with EJ.

I watched the clock for the next thirty minutes. My brothers got bored and ran outside to play. Now I was literally counting down the seconds. The moment it hit time EJ was here. His eyes never left mine as I took in his charcoal scent. It was so comforting.

When we got to the Hackura realm the first face I saw was Alexander’s. He looked stoic but I could see the hurt in his eyes. Was he still upset about not being able to pop unless it was an emergency? Poor guy. He was the most sensitive out of the siblings. He was the only one that could heal so far. They thought Cassie and EJ could when they were little, but it turned out they could just give Alexander more juice in their connection.

His healing abilities made him a bit more emotional than the others. Cassie was technically supposed to be more emotional than Alexander because she was the Truth Seeker, but she tended to lean towards her Hackura side, so she let things roll off her back. They both had their things, I guess.

Cassie used to be very sensitive about the Cassandra topic, but obviously that wasn't the case anymore. I felt bad Cayden wasn’t coming because I knew Cassie wanted to meet him. They kept missing each other, and she was really annoyed by it. Fairies got that way when they felt things weren’t fair.

Micah not coming was sad. I was hoping to meet him since he was usually with his mom’s if we were here. He was just as good with computers as his dad, Gunner. Even though he was only twelve. I was surprised to hear he was in the field, but Cayden was seventeen. Maybe he just needed a tech guy with him.

EJ popped me away for some private time. When he put his hands on my hips my heart started racing. Was he going to kiss me? I’d been dreaming about our first kiss for ages. I didn’t really know what I was doing, but we managed to keep kissing. I should’ve looked up how to kiss.

I didn’t know how long it was before EJ pulled back, but I wanted him to keep going. It wasn’t long before his lips were back on mine. We were more confident of what to do now. EJ was smiling his happiest smile when he pulled back and told me we had to go.

When we got back everyone clearly knew we’d kissed. The ground could swallow me whole now. When we took our seats for the ceremony, I glared at several girls who were openly staring at my mate. They met my stare with their own of jealousy, hatred, and contempt for me. I held out, and eventually they looked away first. That was right. He was MINE!

I was never more grateful to EJ for teaching me Latin. I would’ve been so lost here. It was a surprisingly short ceremony. I looked around for Ray and spotted him quickly. He shot me a wink. Once everything was said and done Bjourn announced it was time to celebrate.

I tensed, but I’d been preparing myself. They had orgies here and I knew there would be one today. This was totally normal to EJ and his siblings since they’d grown up around it. I was taking deep breaths, because I could do this. It didn’t faze anyone else.

EJ had made other plans that made me love him more. We were away from the crowd spending time together. I nearly laughed when he brought up my dress for the school dance. My dad would freak out when he saw it. My mom and I bought it when he was in a meeting. He would not like the low cut of the top, but my mom said I was beautiful in it.

I wanted to sigh over how sweet EJ was. People didn’t always believe me when I said that. The Conners had a reputation for being stern. They were sweet though with those they loved. It always amazed me that he didn’t see how many people wanted him or were afraid to cross him. I knew he didn’t mind the second part though.

I knew I’d have to deal with catty people and proving EJ was mine. My mom did it and so did Haley. It was just the way things went. On the one hand, I knew what they saw. EJ was handsome. He was perfect and too dang sexy. His whole family was attractive, and they knew it. They didn’t seem to understand the concept though. It was kind of funny.

When we got back, I let myself get lost in the emotions of the day. I enjoyed watching the Conners around me teasing each other. I saw balloons with Bjourn and Astrid’s faces on them, which screamed that Haley’s planned it. She went all out for things.

Watching EJ with his siblings had my thoughts trending towards how cute EJ would be with our pups one day. I’d been thinking a lot lately about that. It was fairly common for Werewolf couples to have pups right away once they found each other. I just wasn’t sure I wanted to do that.

I was going to be moving to Black Mountain and it was a large territory. I didn’t want EJ to have to worry about me and a pup. I just wasn’t sure how he’d react to me wanting to wait on starting a family. I wanted to be sure before I told him. Right now, I waffled. I needed to sort through my feelings about it.

After a while I saw Ray shoot me an apologetic glance and I knew it was time to go. I didn’t want to because I hated it when EJ and I were apart. They started talking about the dance. Cassie winked at me. I knew she had no idea how excited Jason was that she’d said yes to being his date. Honestly, I was really excited about the dance too.

It hit me the second I laid eyes on my mate’s brother that Melanie and Alexander were finally going to meet. This was actually exciting! EJ popped me home. I saw the flash of pride in Ray’s eyes for EJ as he recounted the events to my parents. When EJ left, I already missed him.

When he left, I told my parents about everything except the kisses EJ and I shared. I’d tell mom later. I didn’t want to talk about that with my dad. I excused myself and went upstairs. After a while, my mom joined me.

I smiled greeting, “Hey, mom.”

She cooed, “So, what did you leave out of the story with your dad back there?”

I blushed, “How did you know?” My mom winked, “A mother knows.” I looked down, “We kissed a few times.”

My mom sat down, “We haven’t had that talk yet.”

I blushed, “Mom, it was just kissing!”

My mom clucked her tongue, “One day it won’t be. I just don’t want you to feel pressured. You can wait as long as you want. Or you don’t have to wait at all. I’d like it if you were a bit older, but we know he’s your mate. It’s natural to want to be with him in that way.”

I blushed, “We aren’t there yet mom.”

My mom smiled, “When you are, you can talk to me.”

I whispered, “Do you think he’d be upset if I didn’t want to have pups right away? Right after I turn eighteen?” My mom took my hands, “I think that boy loves you and you’re his whole world. He’ll give you whatever you want. Everyone does things in their own time and their own way. If you want to wait for any of it EJ will understand. Out of curiosity, why do you think you want to wait?”

I explained, “We’ll be taking on such a large pack. There will be things that come up every day. I just want to have a handle on things before we have pups. Plus, we’re going to live for centuries. There’s no rush. I know there’s no perfectly safe time to have pups, but I just want to have a handle on the Luna duties first. I don’t want him to take over worrying about me and our pups.”

My mom smiled, “Alpha Eric isn’t going anywhere when you take over. He’ll be there to guide EJ. Alexander, and Cassie will be by his side as well. If you aren’t ready when the time comes, we can get you on birth control. You have plenty of time for pups.”

I smiled, “Thanks, mom.”

My mom kissed my forehead, “Just make sure to check in with yourself. Don’t do things because of fear or pressure. Do them because they are what you want. Your dad and I had you before we took over, and I’ve never regretted it for one second. Sharon and Garrett waited awhile, and they didn’t regret it either. Everyone has their own paths, sweetie. You just have to find yours and EJ’s. Talk to him.”

I nodded, “Thanks mom.”

She kissed the top of my head now, “Of course.” She left me to my thoughts.

I’d talk to EJ about it when I was sure what I wanted. I fell asleep happy with where everything was. I woke up to my phone ringing with EJ on the other line. I knew something was wrong. I could hear the hurt and fear in his tone. I reassured him and we fell asleep on the phone.

My dad was waiting in my room when I woke up holding my phone. He asked, “Did you fall asleep talking to EJ?”

I sighed, “No. Well, yes but we were just sleeping. He was so upset.”

My dad nodded, “Drake called me about the memo he got from Jim Kruthers. The threats have started.” I nodded.

My dad kissed my forehead, “We’ve been preparing for this since the triplets, the first set, were little. Our allies are ready and so are we. You’re going to have a more intense training schedule. You and Melanie will be working with your grandpa and Ben.”

I nodded, “Ok dad.”

I put it out of my mind and enjoyed our last day on vacation. I was the first one packed and ready to get back home the next day. My dad laughed. My brothers grumbled, but I didn’t care. We were finally on our way back.

The second our car parked; Melanie ran out of the McAlister’s house. She slammed into me, “You’re back!”

I laughed, “I am. I have a surprise for you.”

I reached into my backpack and handed her the book I’d gotten her. She squealed, “I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU! I LOVE YOU!”

My dad teased, “Decibel Ladybug, decibel.”

She said, “But it’s my favorite book series!”

My dad smiled, “Yes, I know.” I followed his eyes. Melanie had her Xander wolf tucked into her arm. She grabbed me and started leading me inside.

She announced, “I want to see your dress.”

I winked, “You’ll see it tonight.”

She led me up to my room then sat down on my bed, “I have a competition.” My jaw dropped, “Since when?” She looked away, “Earlier this week.” I frowned, “But Alexander is coming.” She whispered, “I know. He’s going with her.” She spat out the last word.

She started crying, “My Xander likes Charline.”

I consoled her, “Oh, Ladybug. No, he doesn’t.”

She shook her head, “Charline said he does. Jason said he must like her because he’s never given any girl the time of day. It hurts so much. He’s mine but he wants her.”

I took her in my arms, “Hey, it’s ok. I think he just wanted to go to the dance. He’s always found Charline annoying, I promise.”

She wiped her eyes, “You promise?”

She had so much hope in her eyes. I nodded. One it was true. Two, I just couldn't stand her tears.

She said, “Charline said she just knew he’d declare her as his tonight. I almost ripped her face off.”

I snorted knowing Melanie could’ve. Charline couldn’t fight for crap. I said, “You know, if you’d stayed, he might just have declared you as his.”

Her face fell, “I didn’t think of that. I just didn’t want to be here seeing him with her. He wants to go to the dance, and I’d mess it up by ripping her face off.”

I snorted, “I’m surprised you didn’t.”

She sighed, “I had to run away. The only thing that kept me from punching her in her stupid face was that my Xander wanted her. I want him to be happy.”

I hugged her, “I’ll let you know if anything changes, but I’m positive he doesn’t like her.”

She grumbled, “Then I should’ve punched her in her stupid face! She doesn’t even like him because of him. She likes him because he’s a Conners boy, which is SO rude…. and...”

I cut in, “Why do you like him?”

Melanie smiled dreamily answering, “Because he’s sensitive and kind. He’s a good fighter like me. I just know he’d be proud of my skills. He stands up for people that can’t stand up for themselves. Jase said he can be quiet, and I talk a lot… like a LOT… Jase says it’s annoying, but that’s cause he talks a lot too. My Xander is very handsome and he’s mine.”

I started to say, “Well then….”

She growled, “Charline doesn’t know anything about him. She thinks he’s arrogant because he’s a good fighter, but he’s NOT!”

Now I was getting mad. Alexander was the farthest thing from arrogant possible.

I agreed, “You’re right, he’s not. He’s a bit more sensitive than his siblings.”

Melanie frowned, “If she hurts his feelings, I’m punching her and breaking her stupid nose. Then maybe her whole stupid face.”

It was really hard not to laugh.

I went into my closet and grabbed my dress. Melanie’s face lit up, “It’s so pretty! You’ll look just like a Princess.”

I laughed, “I’ll be a Duchess. Which is weird enough.”

Melanie smiled, “You’ll be the prettiest Duchess.” I tickled her, “I’ll be tied for the prettiest if you're a Duchess too.”

When she caught her breath she told me, “I don’t need to be a Duchess. I just want my Xander.”

I bit my lip because it was too adorable. Tristan was right though. If Melanie and Alexander weren’t mates, she’d be crushed.

A knock came on my door. Sam walked through with my mom. Sam said, “We’ve got to go, Ladybug.”

Melanie hugged me, “Have fun at the dance tonight!”

I smiled, “I will. Go win your competition.” She smiled, “I usually do.” That was true, she did.

Sam laughed, “You get your butt over and say bye to your dad and your brothers.”

Melanie left and Sam looked at me pointedly. She asked, “Do you any idea why Melanie just HAD to have a competition this weekend out of the blue?”

I smiled, “Yes.”

Sam sighed, “But you won’t tell me.”

I shook my head. She smiled, “I’m glad she has you, Elise Kyle.”

She left. I watched from my window as Melanie loaded up into her mom’s SUV. I sighed wishing she was staying.

My mom cleared her throat. I told her, “It’s exactly the reason you think it is, mom.”

My mom put her hand to her chest, “I worry for her. She’s going to be so crushed if Alexander isn’t her mate.”

I snorted, “Apparently Charline is lucky she didn’t get punched in her stupid face.”

My mom started laughing, “Given the pack Melanie’s punch has, I’ll agree she is quite lucky.”

I sighed, “She’s possessive about him. I really think he is her mate. I know wolves don’t have powers or intuition, but she definitely has one with him. Maybe because he’s a hybrid she can tell?”

My mom looked thoughtful, “That’s something to consider. We’ve always known that with you and EJ since before you were born. As a pup, did you feel that way about him? Possessive like she does?”

I nodded. My mom shrugged, “It’s possible. You need to jump in the shower so we can start getting you ready. The other girls are coming over here to get ready.”

I frowned, “Is Charline?” My mom nodded. I groaned.

My mom laughed, “After just thirty minutes with Melanie and you don’t like Charline anymore.”

I said, “Apparently Charline likes Alexander because he’s a Conners’ boy and thinks he’s arrogant.”

My mom snorted, “I’m stunned Melanie didn’t punch her then.” I replied, “She didn’t think her Xander would like that.” My mom snorted, “Shower. By the way, your dad agreed that Ray has the night off.” I clapped in excitement. A night without a chaperone we could sense.

The girls came over and Charline was already gloating. After five minutes, I was ready to deck her. I couldn't believe Melanie hadn’t. Charline was going on and on about how Alexander chose her out of everyone. She had the audacity to say he may take her as a chosen mate if they weren’t mates.

I cleared my throat and her face flushed red. I told her, “Alexander is only fourteen. I think we’re a long way from picking chosen mates. He asked you to the dance, not to marry him. Let’s all just have fun.”

Charline looked mad but nodded. The other girls shot me grateful looks.

Everyone else left and went down to meet their dates. EJ wasn’t here yet though, which meant Alexander wasn’t here, so Charline stayed upstairs. I crossed my arms, “Charline, Alexander is a great guy who would be hurt by all the crap I’ve heard you’ve been saying. Just get to know him to see if you like him.”

Charline sighed, “I know, it’s just that I really do like him. He’s never agreed to date anyone. I have a friend in Black Mountain who says he spends time with his siblings, cousins, and you. I really want him to like me. It has to mean something that he asked me.”

I dryly replied, “It does. It means that you told me to tell him you wanted to go with him then he asked. Let’s just start there. Ok?”

Her cheeks flushed scarlet but she nodded.

We walked down the stairs. I saw EJ studying Alexander, who looked upset. I frowned wondering if he heard us talking upstairs. I saw my dad suck in a breath when he saw me. My mom hit his thigh and shot him a warning look. His jaw clenched.

To be fair, I did know he wouldn’t like this dress. I observed Alexander with Charline. He was being honest but there was no flicker of desire in his eyes. There was nothing to suggest he wanted her at all. When EJ was the only one who didn’t complain about pictures, my dad muttered, “Smart pup.”

Eventually, when my mom was satisfied she’d taken enough pictures, we loaded into the car. I snuck a glance at Alexander in the SUV. He didn’t look as annoyed anymore. In fact, he seemed a bit calmer, if not confused. I shrugged it off.

On the dance floor EJ kept rhythm with me easily. All of his siblings had rhythm. When he went over to the DJ I was confused. I asked, “What is he doing?”

Alexander shrugged, “I’d imagine he’s requesting a song.”