Page 44 of Destined Mate

“That’s exactly what I’d advise you to do.” Michael nodded, his approval shining in his eyes. “Would anyone disagree?” It was a genuine question and not a challenge.

“No, but when Stella and Mom head this way, we need to make sure a few more wolves travel with them. I don’t want to chance anything happening to them.” Miles tapped his fingers on the countertop.

Phil sighed. “I won’t disagree there. I miss Alicia, and I want our mates well protected.”

“Then it’s settled.” Lucas rubbed his hands together. “We have a plan, and we can pack link with our alphas to spread the word.”

“And remember, they can’t declare retribution on us since they’re crossing into royal territories. They’re supposed to get permission before coming here,” Bodey said and glanced at each person. “That’s the law.”

For a moment, we all stood in silence, informing me that everyone was still uneasy.

“As much as I enjoy your company, I think I’ve had enough for one day and want to head home,” Michael said. “After dealing with Zeke’s demand to be the one responsible for protecting the clothing and herbs used in the ceremony, and now this, I’m spent.” He stepped back from the island.

Jack grimaced. “I don’t even know whyheis an adviser. I get that he’s decently strong, but he’s the weakest of this group. The former adviser died with no heirs, but…damn, anyone would’ve been better than that prick. Tell them, Callie.”

I jumped a little.

“Don’t put her in the middle of this,” Bodey growled as he eased slightly in front of me.

“What’s done is done.” Dan waved a hand. “The late queen chose him because that was her home pack and the two of them were close. She trusted him.”

“Until the new king is recognized, we’re stuck with him. Though I suspect Theo will be worse since he’ll want to prove himself to his father. We need a royal to replace them,” Miles added.

Everyone glanced expectantly at Samuel, and even though I wasn’t the one in his position, my pulse quickened from the pressure.

Shoulders back and chest out, Samuel didn’t flinch. I had to give him credit.

“All right.” Janet clapped her hands. “If everyone is tired, let’s retreat and get a good night’s rest. All our problems will still be here in the morning, and we can continue the discussion over breakfast.”

“I’mallfor that.” Jack lifted a fist. “I need some beer, anyway. Bodey doesn’t have any.”

Jack’s parents shook their heads but smiled as everyone eased out the door.

Even though Samuel smiled and said goodbye to everyone as they left, I could tell he was distracted. He had to be worried about his future. And even more pressing, turning into more of a prisoner here until his coronation.

Once the front door was shut and locked, Bodey moved to the hallway. “I’m going to order some pizzas and take a shower.”

With the way his body sagged, I could tell the day had taken a toll on him as well. “Okay. Let me know if I need to do anything.”

“Nope, I’ve got it.” He smiled tenderly before disappearing from sight.

When I heard him walking upstairs, I tugged Samuel toward the couch. “Let’s watch a violent movie.” I wanted to do something to put him in a better frame of mind.

“Fine, but only if I can pick it.” He looped his arm through mine, and we settled in on the couch.

I smiled. For the first time in my life, it sorta felt like I had another family.

* * *

I wriggled around,unable to get comfortable, and finally flopped onto my back to stare at the white ceiling. Samuel was on the deck, and I was tempted to join him, but he wanted space. I’d seen it tonight, even as we’d watchedThe Matrix. He’d been distant, and I didn’t want to push him for information. He needed to open up when he was ready.

Unlike Bodey and the others, my day hadn’t been insufferable. I’d been alone, talked to Theo, and walked the neighborhood with Samuel. Now it was ten at night, and I was more restless than ever. I felt as if I might crawl out of my skin, and I didn’t know how to squash the feeling.

I had to return home soon.

It was the last thing I wanted.

Frustrated, I threw off the covers and stood. Maybe the moon and the chilly night air would help me. And since Samuel was on the other deck, I could hang out on the one outside my room.

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