Page 142 of Forbidden Moon
“It seems that while Luna is guiding us with dreams, the same could be happening to our missing brothers. They may or may not understand what to do, but the possibility exists that some may find their way to us on their own. If so, we stand ready to welcome them.”
Chagrinned, Sheppard realized he hadn’t given the matter thorough consideration.
“I see I’m going to have to send out updated instructions to those already working on the security issue. We may as well kill two birds with one stone where we can. Everet, I’ll leave it up to you to guide the search in Alaska and nearby regions. Jack, I’d like you to act as an advisor for those searching in Michigan, and my people will focus on Minnesota and Wisconsin. The Missoula council can oversee the work in western states. When these efforts have been exhausted, we’ll turn our attention elsewhere.
“When our bothers are found, I’m afraid the three of you will need to take an active role in their integration. My office will work with you to provide whatever is needed to rescue, educate, or relocate these men as needed. I understand this presents a heavy burden on you and your families, but I know you will do your best. Do not hesitate to ask for resources or advice. We have a tremendous job ahead of us.”
Sheppard thanked them again, broke the connection, and sat back to think. Collectively, those three men turned shifter history and practice on its head, redirecting energy and resources to accomplish great things. If their dreams were true, they would be instrumental in reintroducing the widespread leadership of True Elders—missing for at least a hundred and fifty years. He intended to back them to the hilt.
Chapter 53
SEPTEMBER FIFTH, TERRACEBay Hotel
Anxious and missing his mate, Jonah’s face settled into a pinched expression as Derek, the human wedding photographer Robert hired, set up for the next shot. These were supposed to be informal photos, but Jonah’s nerves weren’t conducive to the look Derek wanted. He tried an old trick.
“Tell me about the first time RJ kissed you.”
Jonah’s face lit up with the memory, eyes soft with thoughts of his mate. Derek’s camera clicked away while he spoke.
“We were at the beach by the lighthouse, watching the sunset. There wasn’t anyone else around, and I wanted RJ to kiss me. It was so romantic and perfect. I’ll never forget it.”
Derek lowered the camera and smiled at him.
“There! Exactly what I needed. You’ve got twenty minutes to relax before we get started. Robyn wanted me to remind you to use the bathroom, check your breath, and make sure your fly is zipped. Best friend, huh? I told RJ the same thing, and I think it’s good advice. Remember now—ignore me completely during the ceremony. If I need more posed shots, I can do them afterward, OK? See you soon.”
The door closed, leaving Jonah’s poor wolf pacing in his head. Shifting sounded good about now, but he’d have to undress and redress again, and there wasn’t time. Jonah cursed the idiotic idea of separating the couple before the ceremony, knowing exactly what he’d do to the human who came up withthattradition!
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ROBERT SWEPT THROUGHthe ballroom, inspecting the table placement, cake, and decorations. Everything looked as it should, and he checked in with the hotel staff one more time to be sure they were following his instructions. While lunch already smelled delicious, his food critic self couldn’t wait to see if the meal measured up to the hype. It certainly should, given the cost and the hotel’s reputation! Satisfied there was nothing left here to do, he made his way down the hall to the chapel.
In truth, it was simply a large meeting room equipped to handle the unique needs of wedding ceremonies. With carefully placed curtains, wood furniture, and plush carpet, the place honestly did resemble a small church. Once musical instruments, a great sound system, and special lighting were thrown in, the overall effect was quite convincing. Both Jonah and RJ were comfortable with the peaceful, non-sectarian atmosphere, confident it wouldn’t offend their family or guests.
Robert slipped into the back of the room and found Jonah’s brothers, Connor and Avary, busy seating guests. It was a nice mix of shifter and human, family and friends, young and old. Jonah’s relatives filled two rows near the front, along with Evan and the kids. Nearby, the Cooks pack was well represented, including Alpha Frazier, Andy Tipton, and Lilly Howell with their families.
Many of RJ’s coworkers and old college friends made it to the ceremony, though he still lacked a single blood relative to witness the happy day. The remainder of the seats filled with Gladstone pack members, all eager to show their support and have a good time doing something special—except for one.
Lance looked and smelled like a troubled man, discouraged by recent events and feeling out of place at a wedding. Cliff Townsend unexpectedly ended their physical relationship recently, and Lance hadn’t reacted well. He loved Jonah and RJ and was truly happy for them, but the timing of their nuptials wasn’t ideal. Feeling rejected and alone, Lance wanted to be almostanywhereelse today. Jonah asked Evie to give Lance more attention than usual, trusting her Omega scent to blunt the hurt temporarily.
With only five minutes to go, Robert made sure all the players were in position and ready to begin before asking the grooms to come down. He held up a “one-minute” finger for the sound booth technician and then found his reserved seat next to Ash, who gave his hand a quick squeeze and leaned over to whisper in his ear.
“Everything looks great, love. Relax and enjoy the service.”
The overhead speakers came to life with the twangy strains of a country love song, and a quiet hush fell over those gathered. A familiar-looking officiant entered from the left wearing a white, ankle-length robe adorned by a rainbow-colored sash. Around her neck hung a titanium wolf’s-head pendant, complete with amber eyes—a gift from the grooms and a subtle nod to every shifter in attendance. Seeing Carol Jo Dowling in such a sedate outfit, sans the noisy jewelry and bright colors she normally wore, was a pleasant surprise to those who knew her.
