Page 180 of Fated to the Hunters
Ezra’s features hardened. “I remember everything.”
Vince couldn’t help but think he wasn’t just talking about cheesecake.
A little paler than before, Karena distracted herself with the other two men in the room. “Mateo Elwood, right?”
“That would be me.”
Then her hand sought out his. “And you are Vince Hoyt.”
“I am.”
“It is nice to officially meet you two.”
They all sat around the dining table, with Scarlett and Mateo acting as a barrier between Ezra and his sister.
Ezra held his full attention on the piece of cake before him as he stabbed each bite with his fork and shoved it into his mouth. It was rather awkward, but Karena was determined not to let it bring her down.
“All three of you are mated to Scarlett, right?”
“We are,” Mateo proudly confirmed. “Not that we deserve her.”
“I believe that is up to Isis to decide, isn’t that true Scarlett?”
“She always knows us best.”
“Are you from the Moonlight Pack? Or is it just a coincidence you live so close to them?”
“It’s not. My brother is alpha.”
Karena’s jaw dropped as she looked up from her coffee. “Alpha Maximilian?”
“Yes, that’s him.”
“I’ve heard your father is rather strict.”
“He is, and he cut all ties to me. But once Maximilian became alpha, we were welcomed back as guests.”
The conversation went on as Scarlett and Karena got to know each other. Ezra still struggled. Vince had been rather surprised to find out he’d reached out to Karena. Though Scarlett might have been a large influence on that decision. She had not pushed or persuaded Ezra—at least, not to Vince’s knowledge—but toScarlett, family was everything. Maybe Ezra hoped to make her new family larger by adding Karena.
After the cake was gone, Scarlett offered to take Karena down to the lake. Although Ezra didn’t seem so happy about it, he joined. Vince and Mateo sat on the back porch, watching the three walk over to the weeping willow. Scarlett pointed out various spots, likely talking about the upcoming ceremony.
“Maybe this wasn’t a bad idea after all.” Vince looked over to Mateo, who’s mind was now much calmer. “Ezra might not be able to forgive the past but he just might put it aside so Scarlett can have a sister.”
“And that’s a good idea?”
“Maybe it’s a first step to healing.”
After a while, the three returned with Karena smiling at them both. “It was very nice meeting you two.” Then she turned to Ezra. “Thank you for letting me into your home and meeting your family.”
His jaw muscles twitching, Ezra surprised them all with his next words. “You may return.”
Eyes shining with unshed tears, Karena gently hugged her brother, who was visibly uncomfortable, but let it happen anyway. “Thank you.”
“Let me walk you out,” Scarlett offered, leading Karena to the front door.
Ezra sank into a chair, the war still raging within him.
Mateo was the first to break the silence once the women were out of earshot. “Was it what you hoped it would be?”
