Page 156 of Wolf Roulette

Sascha hummed.

I tracked his rapidly changing scents.

His expression wasn’t reassuring. “The vampires slaughtered thousands of my wolves, Andie. Those who made it to the valley and still live haven’t forgotten it. For them, the horror is fresh. What you’re asking with the vampire alliance is likely too much.”

“The pack wants a place to call their own. They just need to hate vampires less than they want that. Why do you think the tribe has a Luther for a head steward? Some things are stronger than fear and loathing.”

“You’ve proposed a way for the pack and tribe to hold a truce. You haven’t offered the pack a home.”

“The tribe doesn’t own land, Sascha. What you’re asking is something they would never give themselves.”

“What about a middle ground?”

I studied him. “Like what?”

“Just under one hundred years ago, the tribe placed their land in trust to protect it from outsiders laying claim. The tribe could place land in trust for the pack. We wouldn’t own the land, but it would be legally binding. This could be an acceptable level of security for my wolves.”

If the tribe won, why wouldthey place land in trust for the pack? Where was the incentive?

I had to think on it. “IfI could convince the tribe to do that, would the pack enter an alliance with the tribe and vampires?”

“A home is what they want above all else. They’ll be more inclined to listen.”

I’d take that answer for now. “I’d like to continue negotiations with King Julius, and I’d like you present. I’m happy to send through his draft contract today. It’s heavily in favour of the vampires, but I expected no less. He seems mostly reasonable… under the ancient Vissimo king vibe.”

Stepping closer, I hugged his middle. His arms wrapped around me.

We swayed together for a time.

“I need your help,” I whispered.

“I know, little bird.”

To win, we couldn’t do what had always been done. We had to push our people down the safest path.

Werewolves hated vampires? Okay, fine. Vampires were willing to put their beef with the Luthers aside to benefit their clan.

The pack wanted a home? Great. Where else would they go? They could leave the valley only to meet freakin’ gargoyles or some shit in another area. Theyknewthis territory. And now they had a way to find their mates.

“I can’t promise the pack will come to the table without a land solution from the tribe, but I’ll read over this king’s contract.” Sascha paused. “I’ll also attend further negotiations.”

My shoulders sagged. “Thank you.”

“I want to give you a yes, so we’re clear.”

“It just feels hopeless sometimes. I want everyone to be safe.”

He kissed my temple. “Everyone will be safe. Shut your eyes, mate. I’ll paint a picture for you.”

I smiled against his chest. “What kind of picture?”

“The kind where there’s no game and we wake up together each day.”

Tears stung my eyes, but I obeyed. “I’m listening.”

* * *

Nine shocked faces looked at me.

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