“I don’t want to go,” Barrett protests, his whine sending shivers down my spine, raising the fine hairs on the back of my arm.

Nicolai’s sharp tone slices through the air, cutting off Barrett’s complaint with a commanding force. “Barrett...”

Grace’s eyes lock with Nicolai’s briefly before she breaks away, crossing the room to Barrett, claiming him from Conrad’s side. “Cutie,” she coos, her voice a soothing melody, as she gently places a sleeping Deacon into Barrett’s waiting arms. “I need you to protect our babies. They love you, they feel safe with you. Who else can I trust my most precious ones with?” Her words are like honey, dripping with warmth and persuasion, weaving a spell that beckons compliance from all who hear it. I feel the pull of her persuasion. With a shake of my head, I resist, breaking free from her enchantment, observing Barrett sway under her influence.

Ethan’s quiet observation punctuates the moment. “Mom used to do that when we got out of hand. It worked on you and Con, but never me,” he murmurs, his words barely audible, meant only for Nicolai and me to hear. The memories his words evoke stir a mix of nostalgia and sadness within me.

Conrad’s voice cuts through the tension, pulling my attention away from Grace’s gentle whispers to Barrett. “So, what do we do now?” he asks, his tone tinged with uncertainty. His question hangs in the air, amplifying the gravity of our situation.

I take a deep breath, feeling the weight of responsibility settle heavily on my shoulders. “We assemble a team, one we trust implicitly, to safeguard our children, bond mates, and mothers during their journey,” I reply, my voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions churning inside me. “I’m thinking either an RV trip cross-country or an island vacation.” I toss a few options into the conversation, my gestures accompanied by a casual shrug, masking the underlying concern gnawing at me.

Lorcan’s suggestion hangs in the air, and I turn to face him, his eyes meeting mine in silent understanding. “What about a trip to a national park?” he offers, his voice soft yet decisive. “With the RV, the kids can shift freely, and encountering wolves won’t raise any eyebrows.”

The image forms in my mind’s eye: the rugged beauty of the wilderness, the scent of pine and earth lingering in the air, the freedom of the open road stretching out before us. I nod slowly, a sense of relief washing over me at the prospect of providing our children with a safe haven where they can embrace their true nature without fear or judgment. The idea of the open road, the promise of adventure, and the safety it offers starts to ease the tension in my chest, bringing a small, hopeful smile to my face.

Chapter 30

Barrett

-Free Fallin- Tom Petty-

As much as I yearn to fight for my place among everyone, the safety of the babies must come first. If being sent away ensures their well-being, then I’ll accept it, though it weighs heavily on my heart. The weight of this decision presses down on me, a constant reminder of the sacrifices I must make for their sake.

Sitting beside Conrad, I listen intently to the discussions about the challenges that lie ahead. My mind races with thoughts of what’s to come, but I push them aside as Grace gently places Deacon in my arms. As I gaze down at his peaceful face, a surge of love floods through me. His tiny features relax as he drifts into a contented slumber, his soft breaths barely audible in the room. The innocence in his expression captivates me, each subtle movement a testament to his vulnerability.

My heart swells with gratitude and pride as I realize the immense trust my mates have placed in me by entrusting all three children to my care. At this moment, I understand my role is just as essential as any other. The realization brings a sense of purpose and responsibility that I embrace wholeheartedly.

“Barrett?” Grace’s voice pulls me from my reverie, and I realize it must be the second or third time she’s called my name. “Sorry, I was lost in our son’s gaze. What did you say, Gracie?” I offer her a warm smile, my affection for her clear in my eyes.

Gracie gently plucks our son from my arms, her touch light and warm. She hands him off to Ruby with a tender smile, the kind that sends a flutter through my chest. With a playful glint in her eyes, she takes my hand and leads me backwards down the hallway, the soft light casting shadows that dance around us. The anticipation builds with each step, the atmosphere thick with unspoken desires and the comforting scent of lavender from her favorite candles.

As we step into her massive bedroom, the flickering candlelight reveals Lorcan sitting shirtless on the bed, his chiseled form illuminated in a way that takes my breath away. I swallow hard, my pulse quickening. “Um, Gracie?”

“Shhh, my love,” she murmurs, her voice a soothing balm. “It’s the last night I have with you two before you leave in the morning. The Alphas are close by, their wolves outside keeping us safe.” She leans in, her lips brushing against mine, igniting a spark that spreads warmth through my veins. She tugs me gently towards Lorcan and then settles herself on his lap, her movements graceful and confident.

“Lass, are you being extra naughty tonight?” Lorcan’s thick brogue rumbles through the room, his words wrapping around me like a warm, tantalizing embrace. The sound hardens my cock instantly, a visceral reaction to his voice and presence.

“Of course, baby,” Gracie purrs, her tone filled with wicked delight. “I enjoy pairing my mates up with me. Two sets of hands, two tongues, two evenly matched cocks for me to play with.” She tilts her head back, her lips grazing the corner of Lorcan’s mouth, drawing a deep, appreciative groan from him.

My breath catches, the room spinning in a haze of desire and excitement. The scent of cookies mingles with the musk of our arousal, creating an intoxicating blend that heightens every sensation. As Gracie’s hands roam over Lorcan’s chest, I step closer, my heart pounding in sync with the palpable electric connection between us.

“Jus’ a warnin’, lad,” Lorcan says with a smile that’s both warm and firm. “I dun’nae play on your side of tha fence. I prefer my woman an’ nothin’ more.” He chuckles softly, a sound that vibrates with sincerity and a touch of amusement. “Our mate suggested I lay out my boundaries before anything accidentally happens.” He leans in, pressing a tender kiss to Grace’s cheek before spinning her to face him, his hands lingering on her waist.

The clarity in Lorcan’s words settles any lingering uncertainty, and I nod, the mutual understanding solidifying our bond. The night ahead promises a blend of passion and unity, a celebration of the unique connection we share.

“Thank you for being honest with me, Lorcan. I appreciate it,” I say, my voice gentle as I pull Gracie back towards me, feeling the warmth of her body against mine. “Why don’t you strip and lie down? Let Gracie ride you, and I’ll take Gracie from behind?” I propose the suggestion carefully, aiming to provide Lorcan with a clear anchor, ensuring he feels comfortable and secure.

“Good idea, Barrett,” he replies, the tension visibly easing from his shoulders. Without hesitation, he strips off his clothes and moves to the center of the bed. Gracie follows suit, her movements fluid and confident, as she sheds her clothing and joins him.

That was much easier than I expected. I watch as Gracie mounts him, her body undulating with a sensual grace. She takes him deep, a low moan escaping her lips as she throws her head back, lost in the moment. Her pleasure is palpable, filling the room with her intoxicating scent.

Seizing the moment while she’s distracted, I reach into the drawer and retrieve the lube. The cool sensation of the bottle in my hand sends a shiver of anticipation through me. I strip off my clothes, the fabric rustling softly against my skin, and move towards them.

I move carefully behind Gracie, my breath hitching slightly with the anticipation of what’s to come. “I’m moving behind Gracie. You may feel me hit or touch your leg with my leg or hand and that’s it,” I murmur, my voice soft but clear. Communication is crucial, especially for Lorcan, whose vision is limited. I need to ensure he’s aware of my presence and actions.

Lorcan nods, a low grunt escaping his lips as he thrusts up into Gracie. The sight of them moving together sends a warm flush through me, and I can’t help but smile.

I take the lube, squeezing a small amount into my palm, the cool gel quickly warming to my touch. As I reach out, I feel the slickness spread over my fingers, readying for what comes next. Gently, I angle Gracie towards Lorcan, my hand steady as I guide her.