4

Angela sighed, “His mate. I’ve looked for her, but it’s like there’s this block. I don’t understand it. He’s so sad and he just wants her! He cried and I can’t help him.”

I rocked her back and forth, “Hey, it’s ok. You’re still working on your sight. You can leave helping Alexander to us.” She kept crying. Elise had tears coursing down her cheeks too.

I grabbed her hand and popped us to the gym. Alexander stopped mid jab when he heard Angela crying. He popped to us, “Little one, what’s the matter?”

He took her from me and looked her over. He was confused, “EJ didn’t tell me to heal anything, and I don’t sense you are hurt with my light. What’s wrong?”

She cried, “I can’t help you. I can’t figure out why your mate is blurry.”

Alexander frowned, “Hey, that’s not your fault. Look at me.”

Angela refused until he tilted her chin up. He said, “I will meet my mate one day, Ang. When I do isn’t up to you to fix. You do so many good things with your sight already. You saved Cassie last year and you were only three years old then. We all had to work on mastering our Fairy powers. You’re doing so good and I’m proud of you. My mate and I meeting isn’t up to you, little one. You do not have to meddle with all you see.”

She frowned, “I fix things, not meddle.”

I laughed, “Micah and Max would’ve met if they didn’t meet today.”

Angela sighed, “But Maxy was so happy! Micah too.” I agreed, “Of course they were. Alexander is ok.” Alexander nodded. She frowned, “He’s upset.”

Alexander reasoned, “Not with you.”

Angela got a stubborn look on her face, “With your friend. I’ve seen….”

She trailed off and stopped talking. She did that when she was trying to see if paths were surer. Alexander frowned, “What have you seen?”

Angela answered, “You get very upset and so does EJ. You guys fight but I don’t know when. He tells you he’s out of space.”

Alexander and my eyes met and his jaw clenched. Brutus asked, “Is he really going to push us there?”

I replied, “Evidently.” It was annoying.

Alexander told her, “EJ and I will figure things out. We may fight, but we are brothers. I will always be by his side, and he will always be by mine.”

I agreed, “That’s true. No matter what, all you guys are my brothers and sisters. I’ll always have your back.”

Angela pleaded, “You won’t stay mad long, right?”

Alexander laughed, “Like he could stay mad at me.”

Angela giggled, “Yes he could, silly! It’s me and Cassie that none of you can stay mad at.” I snorted, “I have no doubt that you two would cook something up if Alexander and I stayed mad at each other too long.” Elise added, “Count me in. I’d help you and Cassie, Ang.” I sighed, “Of course you would.”

Alexander nudged our sister, “See? It’s all good.”

She sighed, “I want to help you though.”

Alexander smiled, “Because, not unlike mom, you love helping people. You have a heart of gold, little one. I’ll be ok.” She sighed, “Ok. I’m going to figure it out though and I’m meddling when I do.” Alexander laughed, “Don’t stress out about it.” Angela stood up smiling. She walked away then turned, “You didn’t say not to meddle.” She popped away.

Alexander snorted, “She’s a cute little stinker and quite possible too smart for a four year old.”

I asked, “Are you ok, brother?”

Alexander shrugged, “I’m physically fine.” I pushed, “She’s right, you know? I am running out of space to give you.” Alexander nodded, “I know.”

My dad walked in, “Boys, I’d like to chat in my office.”

Elise asked, “Do I need to go home?”

My dad replied, “No, you’ll be EJ’s Luna so I have no problem with you hearing the discussion.” I smiled and kissed her. Brutus purred, “Our Luna.” I loved hearing it.

I popped us to my dad’s office. Alexander and my dad popped in a second later. My dad sat, “I spoke to Cassie about this already.”

I jumped in, “She’s back?”

My dad nodded, “She’s in the Hackura realm right now and will come see everyone later. You boys are ready to take over.” I blinked, “Really?” My dad nodded, “Yes, really.”

Alexander looked at me and sent me all his feelings. He was ready but respected how I felt about it since I was the Lead Alpha. He was leaving it up to me. I asked, “What did Cass say?”

My dad said, “That she would help out as she could.” I nodded.

I sat forward, “I’ve thought about this a lot. Our pack already does things differently. I know you’d be there for us, but I think that would open us up for fighting about dominance. I know that happened with you and grandpa plus Alpha Chase and Frank Daniels. Any Alpha that took over younger has had that problem.”

My dad frowned, “I’m not your grandpa.”

I held up my hands, “I know that, but we’d lean on you. I think”

Elise took my hand smiling and I kissed her forehead. “since our pack has always been different I want us to do a hybrid style.” My dad grinned, “Explain.” His pride was already bouncing in the bond.

I explained, “Alexander and I would take on tasks of the Alpha with you still being the Alpha. I think Daisy’s ready to do this too.”

My dad made a motion for me to continue. I threw it all out there, “We’d handle disputes and some paperwork on our own. We’d have you review our decisions. I think if we did a year of that with us slowly taking on more and more tasks and responsibility, we’d take full control.”

My dad nodded, “You can take that plan to your cousins. I’m sure Daisy is ready.”

I warned, “Saied doesn't want to be an Alpha and I won’t make her.”

My dad replied, “Nor would I. I want her to do what she wants. She wants to be the Female Lead Warrior. Encourage her to challenge for it. We want all you pup’s to strive for and reach your own goals. Austin can take over for your Uncle Jackson if he wishes to.” I nodded. I teased, “Are you ever not going to call us pups?” He replied, “You are adults and I acknowledge that BUT you will always be my pups. So, no.” We all laughed.

We walked out of his office. Alexander clapped me on the back, “It’s a good plan.”

I smiled, “Glad you think so.”

He hugged me, “I’m with you brother, always.” We went in search of Daisy. We found Dana and Saeid instead.

I asked them, “Where’s Daisy?”

Dana laughed, “She’s on her way back to the pack. Fair warning, she’s in a tizzy.”

I frowned asking, “Why?” Dana smiled, “The Omega she thinks is gorgeous had her birthday this week. Their family got back an hour ago. Daisy just can’t stand to think of her with a mate.”

I raised an eyebrow stating, “Zoe didn’t find her mate.”

Elise asked me, “Mrs. Blanch’s little protege? That’s who Daisy likes?”

Dana nodded, “Oh yeah.” I laughed, “Did you tell her Zoe didn’t find her mate?” Dana said, “I would’ve but she refuses to talk about it. She’s taken a page out of Alexander’s book. They’ve been in the gym training this week.” Alexander grinned, “It’s effective.” I rolled my eyes.

I asked, “Saeid, when are you going to challenge to be the Female Lead Warrior?”

She gasped, “What?”

I raised an eyebrow, “You want it and you’re old enough. So, challenge for it.” Saied shook her head, “No, I’m the oldest. All those women fought for the right to take over their dad’s spot. I can’t just turn my back on that.”

I argued, “You’re not turning your back on it. You’re following your dreams. We aren’t about traditions here. As your cousin and your one day Alpha, I want you to pursue your dreams. I’d better wake up to news about your challenge for the tournament.”

Elise added, “Orrrrrr the day after my birthday.”

I laughed, “Whatever my girl wants.”

Saied blushed, “Thanks, EJ.” I nodded, “Of course. Your dad and mine know your goals so just talk to yours. He’ll be so proud.” She smiled and walked off.

Dana smiled, “Austin will be all ‘I’ve said all that, but EJ says it and you listen.’ It’s going to be a whole thing.”

I laughed, “Well, at least you know.”

Dana laughed, “I do.” We heard a growl. I turned. Daisy had walked in the front door. She passed us as if she was on fire. She ran to the kitchen declaring, “MINE!”

I commented smiling, “It looks like Zoe found her mate.”

I heard a lot of happy tears. Nana Blanch clapped, “I just knew it! Oh, this is just perfect.”

I walked in to see her fanning her face as Daisy kissed Zoe. Alexander sighed, “I guess your chat is going to have to wait until later, big brother.”

I turned, “Alexander.”

He walked off. I stopped Elise from going after him. I whispered, “Give him a minute. This is two mates found close together.”

Elise frowned but nodded. My dad, Uncle Jackson, Uncle Harold and Uncle Darrin came walking up to us.

My Uncle Darrin smiled, “My little girl found her mate.”

I nodded. I saw my dad put a hand on Darrin’s shoulder then he left to go after Alexander. My Uncle Darrin said, “Daisy, please take her upstairs. I’m still your dad and I don’t need to see this.”

Daisy turned, her cheeks flushed red. She grabbed Zoe and led her upstairs.

I told Uncle Jackson, “Saied is looking for you.”

He nodded and went in search of her. My Aunt Shana walked in. She asked, “What happened?”

Darrin kissed her, “One of our pups found her mate.” Shana looked around, “Please Moon Goddess let it be Daisy and Zoe. Daisy will mope if it’s not.” Darrin laughed interrupting, “It’s Daisy and Zoe.”

My Aunt Shana clapped, “Thank the Moon Goddess! I nearly threw a party when Zoe came back without a mate.”

Uncle Darrin laughed and they walked out together. I popped Elise home and I kissed her. When I pulled back I whispered, “Your birthday is so soon.”

Elise smiled, “I left a suitcase in your room.” I kissed her.

I pulled back, “It’s our room, babe.”

She smiled and whispered, “Our room.”

I smiled, “I’m thinking we have your Luna ceremony after I fully take over the pack. It will probably be around your nineteenth birthday. What do you think?”

She smiled, “I think that’s nice. I’ll do what you guys are doing. I’ll spend time with your mom figuring out the Luna position.”

I brushed her shoulder, “That’s a good idea.”

Elise laughed, “Of course it is. I’m just stealing yours. I might even rope in other mates of the Alpha’s.”

I whispered, “I want to have our mating ceremony soon though.”

She shivered, “Ok.”

She seemed nervous. I assured her, “If you want to wait that’s fine.” She shook her head, “NO! That’s not that. It’s just that I’ve been thinking a lot about….” I prompted her when she stopped talking, “About?”

She sighed, “Pups.”

Her tone confused me. I knew she wanted pups, but her tone was saying something else. She rushed, “I’m not ready for pups.”

I was relieved, “Is that all? That’s fine, babe. Whenever you’re ready, we can have pups. It’s your body, and it’s your choice.”

She whispered, “You aren’t mad?”

I laughed, “We will have centuries together, Elise Kyle. I won’t rush you. I’ll give you anything you want. We are going to be busy taking over the pack and figuring out our balance. You’re also making a big move changing packs and taking over some Luna duties. I understand that’s a lot at one time. I know both of us are excited for you to finally be with me. It’s still a big change.”

I offered, “We still have time for you to change your mind. If you want to run things here, I’m all in Elise. I’ll be by your side as your Alpha Male.”

She kissed me passionately. She pulled back, “You’re perfect EJ Conners. Thank you, but no. My place is as your Luna. I know it’s our destiny. My brother's destiny is here.”

I smelled Melanie McAlister and heard her running faster than any wolf I’d known. She launched onto the porch panting. Elise laughed, “Mel?”

She looked nervous as she looked around then handed me a present without saying anything. She just took off after. I saw her run back to her house, climb a tree, and hop back inside through her window and quietly shut it.

I laughed, “Is she still grounded?”

Elise nodded, “Still from the same thing. They told her if she admitted it, she could get out early but she refuses. I get it because…”

I finished, “She didn’t do it so she shouldn’t admit it.” I looked down at the gift.

I chuckled, “It’s for Alexander.”

Elise laughed, “I’m shocked.”

I fake pouted, “I didn’t get one.” Elise laughed, “You did. I brought it to your party.” I asked, “Why didn’t she have you bring this one?” Elise mused, “I’m sure she wanted to give it to him personally.” I nodded, kissed her, then popped home.

I found Alexander in the gym. I cleared my throat, but he kept hitting the bag. I cleared my throat again. He looked over his shoulder, “Brother.”

I waved the present. He inhaled and stiffened. He turned, ran over me, and ripped the present away. He read the card and smiled. I asked, “What does it say?”

He handed me the card. I read it quickly.

Xander,

I saw this and it reminded me of you. I just had to get it for your birthday. I was hoping to give it to you in person, but that’s apparently not happening this year. Happy eighteenth birthday. I’m sorry that Charline tried to ruin it… but I’m glad we got to text. Plus, I’m glad you’re ok... not that I doubted that… I knew you could call up your other sides to avoid her… that’s a thing… that I knew…

Yours

Melanie McAlister

P.S I didn’t know if I signed Melanie if you’d know who it was…. since we’ve never met. One day though… Hopefully. Well... you said we would….and you can’t lie so… yeah... umm… bye. God why did I write in pen... that’s dumb stop reading this. STOP WRITING MELANIE AH!

I laughed unable to help it. I looked up to see my brother smiling at a necklace. It was a platinum chain with a black canine tooth on it. There was a wolf on it too. Damn. She had to save her allowance for a while to be able to buy that. Alexander put it right on. He smiled, “Thanks, EJ.”

I shrugged, “She practically threw it at me and ran back to her house. I was merely standing there.”

Alexander laughed, “Still. Thank you.”

Time passed by quickly for once. Alexander and I were working with Daisy and our other cousins to implement a hybrid Alpha style. Saied challenged for the Female Lead Warrior position. We were having the tournament the day after Elise’s birthday.

Alexander bumped me, “Get to stepping, big brother. It’s eleven thirty at night.”

I looked up, surprised. My dad laughed, “You’ll get better at it. I had to implement a firm end of work day time when I met your mother.”

My mom snorted. My dad chuckled, “Maybe there was Fairy Hijinks involved in that revelation too.” He kissed her forehead. He encouraged, “Go on then and bring Elise home.”

I smiled at the sentiment. We were going to our treehouse in her territory then I’d bring her home. I popped into the Kyle’s house. I looked around surprised that I saw Tristan first. I asked, “Where’s Mel?”

Tristan smiled, “She’s been crying her eyes out about Elise leaving all week. She signed up for a dance competition. It’s how she copes.”

Brutus growled, “I don’t like her crying. We need to protect her.”

I reasoned, “Ladybug can come see her anytime. I can pop Elise back here and she can go see Melanie. We aren’t disappearing from the face of the earth or anything.”

Tristan nodded, “I know. She just loves Elise.”

I felt bad because I didn’t want Melanie to feel left out. Maybe she could have a sleepover one night at our house. I’d pop her in myself and end this shit with Alexander once and for all.

Elise ran downstairs and flung herself into my arms. I laughed, “Hi, babe.”

She whispered, “Hi.”

Tristan was excited too. I knew he wasn’t going to find his mate here though. She was still seventeen and lived in California. Finally, midnight hit. Her spring scent intensified more than I could’ve imagined. Brutus purred. Then I locked eyes with my mate. Elise and I both growled, “MINE!”

Tristan announced, “I got nothing.”

Drake laughed, “You’ll find her, son.”

I ran outside with Elise. I popped her to our treehouse. I kissed her, “MINE!” She growled, “MINE!” right back. Our tongues battled each other for dominance. I snapped her naked, then popped us to the bed.

I started to kissing down her body. She pulled me up to her lips. She writhed under me, “We’ve had eighteen years of foreplay, EJ Conners. Mark me.”

I kissed her, “We can take it slow.”

She flipped us over and sank herself down on me. I groaned, “Fuck, babe.” She began to ride me.

I flipped her over and took over. She screamed, “YES, EJ! HARDER!”

I grunted and gave her what she wanted. I growled, “Fuck, Elise. I love how hard and rough my girl loves it.”

I pushed Brutus forward and she did the same with Rhea.

When she came, I sank my teeth into her neck. When I came I felt her canines pierce my neck, I honest to god roared. I saw stars as I came, unable to stop my light from wanting to connect with her. I put my hand on her chest. She came for ten minutes. Brutus purred, “Mate is finally officially ours.”

Yes, she was.

Elise smiled lazily at me. I licked her neck as her eyelids fluttered shut. I whispered, “Elise.”

She murmured, “Need sleep. Marked by an Alpha. I’m sleepy. Take me home.”

I nuzzled her asking, “Do you want to spend the night here then?” She murmured, “No, our home.” I couldn’t stop my smile.

I snapped us both clean, then snapped her into my shirt. Brutus snorted, “You torture us both.”

I replied, “She does looks sexy in my shirt.”

Brutus agreed with me. I grabbed Elise and popped back to her house for her stuff.

Peter was sitting on her bed. He smiled, “Take good care of my little girl.”

I nodded, “Always Mr. Kyle.”

He laughed, “I’m still Peter to you.” I shrugged, “My mom raised me to respect people. At this moment I’m the guy bringing your daughter home with me. I’m her mate, but I want you to know I respect you, and I respect Elise.” I grabbed her stuff.

I assured him, “I’ll pop her back here whenever she wants to come. I won’t keep her from you. You’re welcome in our home anytime.”

Peter stood and shook my hand, “You’re everything I could’ve ever dreamed of her. My advice is to lead with her always. She will see things you don’t and be your calming force. You’re hers too.”

I nodded, “I will.” He kissed Elise’s forehead then nodded to me.

I popped us to my room. Alexander linked me, “Are you back?”

I answered, “You know I am. I felt you monitoring our bond.”

He replied, “Busted. How’s your mate?” I answered, “Elise is out cold.”

Alexander came into my room quietly. He smiled, “I won the bet. Everyone thought she’d be fine, but I said your mark would wipe her out.”

I laughed, “I marked her and shared my light.”

Alexander clapped me on the back, “Atta boy EJ. I’m happy for you and I’m glad she’s here with us now.” I nodded, “Me too.” He said, “I’ll go.” I smiled, “Thanks for coming in.”

Alexander laughed, “Cassie is ready to pounce on her tomorrow for your big proposal plans.”

I chuckled, “I’m sure she is. The pouncing on Elise is just for me though.”

Alexander snorted, “Thanks for the visual.”

I asked, “Why didn’t you tell me some she wolf from Alpha Theo’s pack kissed you?”

He shivered, “I’m not even going to ask how you found out about that. I don’t want to remember it. I didn’t even know what was happening.”

I nodded, “Fair enough.” He winked, “All systems go for you proposal.” He gave me two thumbs up then walked out.

I kissed Elise’s forehead, “I love you, Elise Kyle. Welcome home. Tomorrow I’ll ask you to be my wife and I can’t wait.”

I planned a proposal I was hoping she loved. Brutus snorted, “You know she will.”

I closed my eyes knowing my girl was finally home for good. I smiled and drifted to sleep with a smile on my face.

EJ woke up ready for the day. I kissed Elise gently on the forehead so I didn’t wake her up. She was going with Cassie to the spa today. If Cassie hadn’t made it back, then my mom was going to take her. I got dressed and walked into the hall.

My sister threw herself into my arms. I chuckled, “How long have you been out here?”

She replied, “Since my mate fell asleep. He seemed to think I couldn’t just camp out here all night. Something about giving it away and being away from him unnecessarily.”

I squeezed her tightly while I laughed.

I said, “We missed you around here.”

She pulled back, “And now I’m back. By the way, I love your plan about being Alpha’s. It’s brilliant, but that’s not surprising since you are very smart.”

I blushed, “Thanks.” She bumped me and then went to sit on my bed and wait for Elise to wake up. Which probably wouldn’t take long since Cassie was staring at her.

Brutus chuckled, “I think that’s our sister’s plan.”

I was certain it was. I popped to the gym and ran several laps. Elise linked, “My first day here and you spoil me with the spa.”

I replied, “I’ll spoil you every single day.”

I worked out for several hours until my mom popped in. She smiled, “Everything you asked for is set up.”

I hugged her, “Thanks. I was worried I’d mess it up if I did it myself.”

She shook her head slightly before saying, “I’ll do anyfuckingthing for you kids. You are an amazing man, and I’m proud of you. Congratulations.”

I pointed out, “She hasn’t said yes.”

Now, my mom rolled her eyes. I mockingly gasped, “What? My momma raised me to respect everyone and their choices.”

She told me, “Yes, but my children are smart. You know she’s going to say yes.” I winked.

I still found myself oddly nervous. I popped to our room and put out all the things she’d ever got me and the mementos I’d kept from the first time I could remember. I left several of them there and then left others with notes along the journey to our ultimate destination.

When I got to the small pond our family used, I stopped a moment to take it all in. Everything was arranged perfectly, exactly as I wanted. There were flowers all around the dock with candles, which made me chuckle. I’m sure my mom added that even though it wasn’t night. There were pictures of Elise and me in different sizes all over and hanging from the trees.

Theo linked, “I’m here and ready to take pictures.”

I replied, “Thanks, little brother.”

Cassie linked me, “We just got back. Get ready.” I conjured Elise’s engagement ring to me. I pulled it out and looked at it, not for the first time since I’d finalized it last year.

It was a four karat pear cut diamond, rose gold plated art deco style ring. Theo called, “I got to see it first! Go, me!”

I chuckled, wondering if he actually was the first. My family knew I had it, but I’d had it designed in secret for my mate. So, unless someone conjured it to themselves, they didn’t know what it looked like.

Elise linked me, “EJ, this is the sweetest thing. I’m going to follow my clues and find you.”

I smiled waiting for her to make her way to me. It took about thirty minutes. She spotted me and tears flowed freely down her face as she fanned herself.

I popped to her and popped us onto the dock. She cried, “EJ, this is all so beautiful.”

I told her, “I’ll do things like this for you as much as I can. From the first moment I can remember, you were all I thought about it. Making sure you were safe, happy, and smiling was always my priority. I hated every moment I had to leave you. Even as a young pup.”

I chuckled, “Actually, my first memory is being told I couldn’t go see you and my stubborn ass popped to you anyway.”

She chuckled and leaned in for a kiss. When our lips parted I whispered, “You have always been everything I have ever wanted. I can’t wait to lead this pack with you by my side because as long as I have you, I know I can do anything. You are my strength and the person who makes colors brighter in my life. You are my childhood sweetheart, and I can’t think of anyone better to spend my life with.”

Elise gasped when I knelt down and opened the ring box. I asked, “Elise Elanie Kyle, will you marry me?”

She squealed, “Yes, of course I’ll marry you.”

I slid the ring on her finger and conjured the picnic I planned for us. I spun her around, holding on tight. She was my forever, now and always.