Belinda Boring - The Mystic Wolves

The stillness of my room felt somewhat stifling, the last few moments with Mason playing over and over in my mind. Not caring that someone would be here shortly, I began stripping off my sweaty clothes, the need for a shower the only thing I could concentrate on.

I knew he was under pressure and that even the strongest had their limits. I had confidence he’d be able to face whatever challenges he met later. I just couldn’t shake the ominous feeling which had nestled itself in the bottom of my stomach. This is where I needed to have faith- to not just say it, but show it.

Stepping under the water, scrubbing away the grime from my recent workout, I tried to focus on the future. There was so much to look forward to-a lifetime of new experiences, and my highly anticipated mating. Nothing had changed and something told me when we came out on the other side of this, we’d be stronger for it.

The soft perfume from my body wash mingled with the soothing steam of the hot water, seeping its way into my pores, and I began to calm down. I tried to remember what a wise friend told me a few years ago-a problem always looked bigger when it was the only thing I focused on, and as I rinsed off, I kept reminding myself of the bigger picture. This, unfortunately, wasn’t going to be the only time we faced danger together as a couple and pack. It wouldn’t be the only time we suffered heartache and uncertainty.

Stepping out of the shower, a new sense of determination filled me. Mason had stood by me, taking precious time to help reinstall my confidence in who I was and my place within the pack. I knew how lucky I was to have him, and I made a mental note-once this was over, I wanted to plan a special evening just for the two of us. We needed some alone time so I could pamper him. Grinning, I felt a pulse of excitement. That’s exactly what I’d do.

Quickly dressing, I felt lighter for the first time today. I walked out into my bedroom to find a very large, very amused looking, vampire enforcer sprawled across my bed. His rich chuckle charged the air as he began to read out aloud from my romance novel.

“Oh, Bradley, you’re so strong. However will I live without you? Kiss me… kiss me now and I’ll be forever yours. I’m all a tremble waiting for you, my darling.” His high pitched attempt at sounding like a female made me forget for a moment to yell at him for teasing and I busted up laughing, my hand covering my mouth.

“Felicity. I’m so glad you’ve noticed my manliness. Please, touch me. Touch my…” I watched him flip the book closed, taking a quick look at the cover, and he reopened to the spot his finger marked, “hard muscles and long flowing hair.” He snorted, clearly finding it funny and returned the book to its rightful spot.

“Please tell me you don’t enjoy that?” He looked at me incredulously, patting the space beside him on the bed as an invitation for me to come sit. “That was cheesy, and it’ll turn your brain to rot.”

“Hey, don’t mock my romance book, and you know that’s not what it says either. Go ahead and laugh, but you don’t know what you’re missing!” I flopped myself down, slapping him for good measure on his leg. “I’m sure it’s more fascinating than what you read, Mr. I’m-A-Broody-Vampire. Probably something heavy and extremely tragic.” I rolled my eyes at him, mocking him right back.

“You think you’re so funny. For your information, I just finished a murder mystery. It was quite entertaining.”

“Really?” I turned my head to look at him. He didn’t come across as someone who’d be interested in the genre, or any for that matter.

“No. I don’t have time for such luxuries, but if I did, it wouldn’t be something with the title “ Surrendering to the Mistress of Promises. ” He eyed the book again.

“I’ll let you borrow it when I’m done. It’ll be our little secret.” I tapped him on the leg and got off the bed. Mason still hadn’t come by yet, and I was anxious to see him before he left.

“He’ll be okay, you know?” I turned around quickly, ready to blast him. “And no, I didn’t read your thoughts. I understand you well enough to read your body language. You’re worried about the meeting, but Mason’s got a smart head on his shoulders. He’ll be careful.”

“I hope so.” I began to slowly pace back and forth, inching closer to the door with each step. As if willing him there, I heard a knock and Mason entered, followed closely by Daniel. They were both dressed in black, weapons concealed, but my focus was solely on the man moving toward me.

He looked lethal and dangerous. I could tell by the game face he was wearing, he was in complete control. Any uncertainty was gone as the full weight of the Alpha mantle rested squarely on his shoulders. He’d take no risks tonight.

“We’re ready to head out, sweetheart.” The use of the endearment settled some of my anxiety. He seemed balanced, and I stepped into his open arms, ignoring the way the knives he had hidden dug into my skin. I inhaled deeply, enjoying his masculine scent, and I tried to show my support through our embrace.

I was the one who stepped away first, squeezing his hand before looking back at him. “Be safe, okay? Do what you need to do and then come home.” I smiled widely, and my heart skipped a beat when he returned one of his own. I saw the look of relief in his eyes.

“I’ll try to send you updates through our connection, so you don’t spend the rest of the night worrying. I know you have a bad feeling.” He reached out and stroked the curve of my face. “I did hear you, even though I acted like I didn’t. Daniel and I have gone over every possible scenario we could think of, and if it looks like a trap we’ll get out of there. I just can’t let this chance slip by. Who knows what lengths Avery will go to if these have been his opening moves?”

“You don’t need to explain. I understand, and I appreciate you offering to send updates. Besides, I’ll be fine here with Devlin.” I gestured over my shoulder to where he was laying. “I know just how we’ll spend our evening as well.” I could hear Devlin groan softly.

“I love you, Darcy.”

My eyes moved over Mason’s face, taking everything in. “I love you too,” I whispered and I took another step back as he turned to go.

“Keep her safe, Devlin. I’m counting on you. Leave here only if you have to.”

“Does this mean you rescind your Alpha command for me to stay on pack property?” I asked.

“Yes, should the need arise, you stay with Devlin. No running off on your own. Promise me, Darcy, or the command stands.”

I agreed to his terms, and I felt the burden of the command lift. “I won’t leave here by myself. You have my word.”

He paused for a moment, weighing things and seemed satisfied. Nodding at Devlin, both Daniel and he left the room.

I let out a heavy sigh, staring at the closed door and I shut my eyes briefly to offer up a heartfelt prayer. Twirling around, I attempted a smile as I settled myself back on the bed. Devlin wrapped his arm around my shoulder, pulling me close, and I rested against him.

“Ah, the joys of waiting.” I laughed, breaking the silence. “So, what shall we do?” I tilted my head to the side, peering over at my friend.

“Anything you’d like. I’m at your service, Madam Darcy.” He added a flourish with his hand. “Your wish is my command.”

“Honestly? I think I’d just like to talk. We don’t often get the chance and I’ve missed you.” Devlin had always been a part of my life, showing up from time to time when I needed him or whenever he was in town. As an Enforcer, he travelled the world at the order of his King, but I loved whatever chance I got to be with him when he was home in Woodside Hollow.