Chapter 8

Sanchez City

Not on a map anywhere was the small town of Sanchez City. It was more like a community because the residents were his pack members. It had been named after the previous alpha and his family line that had ruled there for several generations. That was where they would be headed, and hopefully, things would go well. They were just now lifting off from the closest airport that could handle a plane the size of the one they were on. Adam felt more confident having his mate up front keeping an eye on things while he kept an eye on things in the back.

Tyne and his people would meet them at a private airport near Ariel's residence. Adam couldn't wait until he got his bodyguards. The need was great and immediate since he felt in enemy territory when he caught some of the looks being sent his way. Their life would improve, but they didn't seem to understand that. Their loyalty to the former alpha was misguided as far as he was concerned. Why couldn't they see that? A few could, but they were in the minority.

They were flying high, and Adam was nervous because he had never been on a plane. He hid his feelings because they would be seen as weakness, especially in this crowd. He closed his eyes as if he were sleeping, and it wasn't long before someone approached, and his eyes popped open. The guy jumped back as if he had been bitten.

"I did not mean to disturb you, alpha. I will admit that I had hoped to talk to you when you had time, so I intended to move closer to when you woke," the wolf said.

Adam directed, "Sit next to me, tell me your name, and then tell me your concerns."

"I am Hector Sanchez, a distant cousin of Emilio's. His behavior was a concern for some time. The homes we live in were not so bad once, long ago. They have been allowed to fall into disrepair and have not been modernized with indoor water, heat, or electricity. Our pack lives like a third world country while our alpha has a splendid mansion far enough away that he is not embarrassed when company comes. I have tried to tell him we need more because our children are starving with only rags to wear. He told me I was unimportant, and he could do without me if I did not stop bothering him. The worst part was he meant it. Others have gone to see him and have never been seen again. Not everyone thinks it was good that you won the challenge, but I do. I see hope for the future because now we may actually have a future," Hector explained.

"I hope I don't let you down. A single person, even an alpha, cannot make a huge difference without help. It is also easier to tear down something than to build it up. I have learned a lot, but I also have much to learn. If I can get the assistance of members of my pack, I will rebuild the village so you will be proud to live there. That would be my first priority, but that can only be done if the pack will help." Adam admitted.

"I would be pleased to work at your side. Construction is how I make my living. I work outside the pack because our alpha would not pay us if we worked for him," Hector observed.

"Anyone who works for me will be paid. None of my pack members will be killed unless they attack me. If they attack me or anyone else unprovoked, they may die in the attempt. Hopefully, the others, especially the two betas that left, will remember I am supported by the council, especially Damon McDougal," he explained.

Damon was practically a legend. Maybe using his name would stop some undecided pack members from joining those who intended to attack him and his mate. They probably had no intention of killing her, but they would try to mate her. At that point, she would either kill them, or they would kill her.

Hector left satisfied with the answers he received. Adam saw him discussing what they had spoken about with the other pack members sitting near him.

The word would spread. Hopefully, those on the plane would accept Adam as their alpha, knowing he would do the best for them–not just for himself.

The biggest problem would be when he arrived at his new pack. They didn't know him, and they wouldn't trust him. There was no telling what the two betas told them if they found a way to get to the pack before he did.

Adam knew the bad guys always managed to find a way. When he used to be one of those bad guys, he had certainly found a way at the expense of this pack.

That would never happen again. Adam had learned much. He would do better this time.

He also had people to help him if he ran into problems. He could do what was necessary to resolve any issues his pack had. They would be a prosperous pack, not just a prosperous alpha.

Mistakenly and because of boredom, Adam drifted off. The circling of the plane startled him awake.

He concluded they were circling the airport on Ariel's property. When they landed, he knew there would be the bodyguards he'd requested. While becoming pack alpha and helping these wolves was something he felt he needed to do, he didn't want to die to do it.

Emilio had been an awful alpha, yet some of his people remained loyal. Why was that?

All of Adam's people had deserted him, and they had been treated no worse than Emilio's pack had. And there was the fact that his family had led them for centuries, just like Emilio's.

Was it because Emilio's father passed the torch and gave his approval to his son while Adam's grandfather did not?

Trying to think through it gave him a headache. He needed a clear head to instruct his bodyguards and explain the situation and why he needed them. There was a room at the back where they could discuss the current situation. Hopefully, the others couldn't hear because he wanted complete privacy.

The plane was landing. Adam felt the plane slowing down.

Apparently, the wolf was a better pilot than he thought he was. Maybe having Mel with him had given him the confidence to do the job correctly. It wasn't a tough landing. Adam barely felt it. Then they came to a complete stop, and the door had opened.

A rope ladder was thrown out the door for people to climb aboard. A small group was waiting. Adam recognized Tyne, his mate Moe, Damon, and Harry, but not the others.

Adam had no idea why anyone else would be there except for the four bodyguards he requested. Mel came out of the front, pushed him aside, climbed down the ladder, and ran to the female that she hugged. Apparently, this was another family member Adam had yet to meet.

Adam followed her and stood behind them, waiting to be introduced. "This is Ariel!" She smiled. Then added, "Ariel, this is Adam, my mate."

He was thrilled she claimed him in the introduction. He was also a little nervous to meet the white wolf. He'd heard much about her and could admit she was beautiful–but not as beautiful as Mel.

"If you need any help, and I'm sure you will, call me," Ariel said.

It surprised him that she said that. Did she really mean that? He'd heard that it was not unusual for her to help people in situations just like the one that he was in. Had she seen something in the future where he would need help? It would not surprise him. He already feared he would need all the help he could get. Mel and Ariel continued to talk, so he walked over to where Tyne and Moe were waiting patiently. At least as patiently as Moe could because he had heard that was not one of her skills.

"Finally!" Moe declared.

"Let me introduce you to your bodyguards," Tyne suggested. "This is Jerry, and this is Rob. I suggest they both be assigned to you. Jerry is a plumber, and Rob is a carpenter. Sandy and Julia would work well assigned to Mel. Sandy has talent in sewing and cooking, and Julia does well in painting and anything like that," Tyne explained.

"We appreciate you assigning someone like this at the last minute. We were tossed into an unusual situation and are trying to make the best of it," Adam explained.

"I understand. We are seeing more situations like this all the time. It gives me hope that we will get our pack alphas and council people straightened out eventually," Tyne said.

"Is our hope, anyway," Moe added.

Damon and Harry made their way over. "I have something for you. It is the same artifact Mel and Janie have. It will give you added protection," Harry handed the amulet to Adam, and he put it around his neck. He had to admit that it made him feel better.

His pack was waiting on the plane. So, they couldn't talk long. It was time to leave with four extra people he hoped would protect him and his mate.

They all looked capable, and he was happy with their skills. It would also look like he was just adding helpers to get things straightened out, not like he needed bodyguards, even though he did.

Adam had to admit that while he felt weird about females risking their lives, in another way, he felt better having females guarding his female. She would probably be more comfortable, too.

How would they schedule themselves? He didn't know, but they would be in the house with him and his mate, making things easier.

They all said goodbye and got on the plane to get going. Jerry and Susie had a pilot's license, and the other two were working on theirs. It was a requirement for Tyne's bodyguards, and even many of his private investigators were trained to fly. According to Mel, who had just talked to the pilot, they were over halfway there. Suarez City was over the line in Mexico. It was west of Reynosa and hidden by magic, so few could get to it.

Adam had heard of places that were hidden in that manner. This one had been hidden for centuries, and the magic was strong. There was also protection to stop danger from finding them. His biggest worry would be the danger within.

With Mel next to him and two of the bodyguards nearby, he allowed himself to drift off to sleep. He thought it was important to be clear-headed when they arrived.

His mate had clearly flown more often than he had because she was already asleep before he even thought about it. Most of those on the plane weren't as comfortable as the bodyguards and Mel.

Adam dreamed while he slept, and when he woke, he couldn't remember his dreams–only that they were horrible. Maybe they had been filled with warnings, but it didn't help him because he couldn't remember anything.

He woke up because the pilot sent him a message–they were nearly there. Everyone had earbuds to communicate, and they had given him and Mel one. He felt safer just because he knew what was going on and had somebody he could give a warning to if he felt threatened.

The plane prepared to sit down. It was circling a dirt runway that probably only served Suarez City.

Adam wondered if there would be a welcoming party. Getting it out of the way at the start might be best. If not, they would have to worry every day about what would happen.

The two betas were definitely a problem and would have to be dealt with. Maybe Adam would have to battle them in the circle.

He couldn't remember much about them, only that he didn't consider them tough fighters. He might be wrong. If he was, it would be the death of him.

"No one seems to be waiting for us. Either they weren't expecting us so soon, or the betas have not arrived, and they are not expecting us at all," Jerry said.

Being there before the betas would be a good thing. They had gone against Adam's orders. Therefore, they did not consider him their alpha. Since the council said he was, they had gone against what a wolf was supposed to do.

It was unusual for that to happen, and Adam couldn't explain why it had. He knew, at some point, he would have to deal with them. He could only hope it would be after showing the pack that he would be a good leader.

He stood and started to exit the plane, but Jerry stopped him.

"You need to let me go first so I can deal with any danger that might be out there. Just because we don't see anyone doesn't mean no one is there."

Adam stepped back and let Jerry go first. Once he indicated things were clear, Adam followed him down. Mel followed, and then the others began to unload.

The landing field seemed to be close to the pack's housing. He couldn't see what the homes looked like from where he stood but could tell they were very small. They would be walking because there was no vehicle in sight.

"Leave our bags here. We'll come back for them after we find something to drive," Adam suggested.

Everyone seemed to feel like that was a good plan, and they began to walk up the road toward the small houses. As the homes came into view, Adam was shocked at how bad they actually looked.

Some barely stood, and the people who came out to greet them wore threadbare clothing and no shoes. It was sad to see, especially considering the alpha was incredibly wealthy. He was simply stingy and unwilling to share his money with his pack. No one should have to live like these people, and Adam would see that things quickly improved.

Looking towards his mate, he saw she was also unhappy with these people's situation. He knew she would be a big help in improving it.

They walked past the small village and saw a mansion just far enough away that the owner could ignore his people's sad condition. As they got closer to the big house, it was clear it had all the amenities of a mansion.

There was a huge garden with a lovely water feature, and Adam was sure there was a pool and a hot tub in the backyard. He could even see a tennis court a little further from the house. Emilio had lived like a king, but his people had suffered.

It would not continue. Action needed to be taken immediately. Every family in the village would have at least a three-bedroom, two-bath home. An apartment house would be built for visitors and singles.

They would start with one house and not stop until every needed house was built. Adam also planned to be sure anyone who wanted it would get an education so their lives could improve even more. Thank the goddess that his mate was with him. Such a big plan would require a lot of support.

The house they arrived at was everything he had expected. It was luxurious with every amenity anyone could imagine.

Some of the pack came with him. Maybe they just wanted to see his reaction to the house.

Hector stuck with him. Adam hoped it was to fill him in on the pack and on what Emilio owned. Levi also stayed with him. He thought those two would be trustworthy, but time would tell. Harry seemed to think they were being honest, and she had a magic spell to tell her if they lied.

"Hector, Levi, we need to check things out. Which is the first house we should start rebuilding? Do either of you know how we can get running water and electricity into the community? I also want to have a celebration. I recently mated and haven't had the opportunity to do anything for my mate yet. A feast for everyone would be a good way. What do you think?" Adam asked.

"A feast sounds wonderful. Everyone would be happy to have an excess of food," Hector agreed.

"Sounds good to me. Will there be something to drink?" Levi asked.

"We'll check to see what kind of money is available, and I will put you in charge of the drinks. Hector will help with the food. Do we have anyone who plays an instrument?" Adam asked.

"We have a mariachi band. They don't usually get to play in the community. There is not much to celebrate, and Emilio didn't like it," Hector explained.

Mel helped because she liked parties, and so did the bodyguards. They found money lying around in drawers and on top of things. They gathered it, and Hector and Levi were given some.

"How much is the band paid?" Mel asked.

"They have a hard time making a living," Hector admitted. "When they play for tips in the community, no one has any money."

Adam looked around at all the luxury in the alpha's house. That his people lived such hard lives seemed so unfair. He'd had his share of problems and been hard on his own people, but he would not be hard on these people. He learned the hard lessons and would move forward as a better person and leader. Maybe fate had taught him these lessons so he would know what to do when he was in the position again.

More of the pack showed up and got involved in setting up the party. Adam saw smiling faces when Hector told them there would be food for all.

Hector handed out the money so the people could go and buy different things. The women went to the kitchen, and it wasn't long before Adam smelled delicious food cooking.

The band began to warm up. Mel went out and gave each of them money, making them smile. Adam wasn't sure how much she gave them, but they seemed happy.

Music started playing, and people started dancing. He heard the word 'fiesta' whispered among the people and knew they had been waiting for a party for a long time.

Most seemed pleased that Emilio was gone. A few sat in the corners, watching to see what would happen next. Maybe they were just afraid that if they had hope, it once again would be taken away.

Adam wasn't sure, and he wouldn't hold it against them. He just had to know the truth.

Some of the women had taken out beautiful, colorful dresses. When they twirled, the hems of their dresses lifted up and

flew around their legs like floating clouds.

Some of the men also had nicer clothing they pulled out for the celebration. Hope was wonderful but fragile and could be taken away easily.

Adam intended to do everything he could to ensure hope grew and blossomed with his new pack. He was getting so poetic, which was not how he usually was.

Someone found tables and set them up just as the food came out. It smelled incredible. Adam was pleased there were some good cooks in the pack. He hoped to get someone set up as a cook and another as a housekeeper. Someone to work the grounds and keep the yard in order would also be good. He thought a part-time pool boy or girl would also be necessary. Emilio might have had someone who already did that, and he would check and see what they were paid.

The drinks flowed, the food was eaten, and everyone seemed happy. Two of Adam's bodyguards found rooms and slept so they could work later.

At the moment, Adam hoped the two betas didn't return and would stay elsewhere. He knew they would bring nothing but trouble. It made him wonder how long it would take them to work their way from Alaska to Mexico.

Did they have any transportation, or were they running all the way? He wasn't sure what they thought would happen when they finally arrived. They had left without permission, which was the same as ignoring their alpha. Even a youngling would know that was wrong and should be punished.

Were there others who would support them and intended to rebel? Adam didn't know, and he was afraid to find out.

The fiesta went on until late at night. Finally, Adam and Mel went to bed. They were both tired, but he was still interested in making love until he saw how tired his mate was. He let her rest because the next day would be busy, and he had no idea what would happen.

Adam hadn't thought he could sleep at all, but wrapped up with his mate, he slept quite well. It was morning, and things needed to be done. He hoped last night's party helped assure some of the pack things would improve.

It was time to get down to business. Adam needed to get into Emilio's office to understand what had happened in the pack.

He took a shower, dressed, and went to the living room. There, he saw Hector and Levi waiting for him.

"We thought you would want to get some work done today. The fiesta was great, but our people need much more," Hector observed.

"I saw that when we arrived. I need to know who does the work in and around the house and who we will have available to start building houses for the pack," Adam responded.

"That should not be too hard to find out. I know who does the work at the house, but I'm not sure they are pack members. The one who cooks is already in the kitchen fixing breakfast because she heard the alpha was here. She is not aware that the alpha is no longer Emilio. I believe you will find all the workers will turn up now that the alpha is in residence. Those available for construction will be limited as many have jobs away from the pack. I took a leave of absence because my alpha told me he needed me for his trip. We may find that some of the others who work construction have also taken time off and will be available for a limited time," Hector explained.

"I know that housing is usually filled by rank. Who would be first up to get a new house?" Adam asked.

"Are you including the two betas who deserted you in this list?" Levi wondered.

"I am not. Only those who are here are included. We need to have a plan for the village. I believe my mate must be brought in on that," Adam explained.

Both men looked confused. Maybe mates didn't do things like that, but Adam's did. Her artistic talent would be amazing when applied to something like this. A picture of what the village would one day look like would benefit everyone.

"What kind of job are you trying to give me?" Mel asked.

"We want to plan how the village will look after we have built houses and put in whatever we decide. I want you to sketch it. I believe it will look amazing. First, we must decide exactly what we will build and where to put it. If we could decide on the first house, we could put a team to work on it. I don't want to wait," Adam declared.

When they finally assembled the team, it wasn't lunchtime yet. They started tearing down the first house they intended to rebuild. Hector would get it.

Mel explored their new home and asked Levi who was the neediest. She moved a single mother with four children into one of the wings of their home. Because of pack hierarchy, the neediest would not be dealt with first, at least not as far as a new home and other things went.

They could, however, bring them into their house so they would have a better environment and all the food they needed.

Mel also ordered clothing online for the mother and the children. His mate discovered that a maid service was being used to clean their home and canceled it. She gave the job to the mother because she needed income. Mel dealt with the family with the greatest need, and Adam didn't worry about it. He dealt with construction and was excited about what the village would look like when they were finished.

Lunchtime came, and a large meal was served. Hector explained that the cook only cooked for the alpha and his few guests. Today, the cook was feeding a large amount of the pack.

Leftovers from last night's party were also being used to feed more people. It made Adam think of how other alphas had set up food bars so their people could get regular meals. Maybe Mel could deal with that and leave him free to deal with other things.

Adam was still worried about the betas who had not turned up yet. They would not arrive for weeks if they were running in wolf form. Was it bad that he hoped for that? He didn't think so.

"Do you have any suggestions on what we should deal with next?" Adam asked.

"There is Emilio's family. He has a half-mate and two children. They live in the village," Levi explained.

"What is half-mate, and why do they not live here with him?" Adam asked.

"He has children with her, but he has not mated her. Emilio considered her beneath him, and so the children were also beneath him," Hector explained.

"Have them brought here. I have no use for someone who does not care for their children. We will find a place for them and see that they are cared for," Adam explained. "Is there anyone else who needs attention?"

"Many in the village are in poor shape, and their houses are terrible. That would just take time, and we will have to work through them one family at a time," Hector offered.

"Is there anything we can do to make things easier on them?" Adam asked.

"Many of the children do not get enough to eat, are wearing rags, have no shoes for their feet, and the shelter they're living in is poor. I'm unsure what you can do about that," Levi explained.

"I see you looking at me. You ensure they have food, and I will see what I can do about the clothing and the shoes. The shelter is also your problem." Mel declared.