Page 72 of Awakened
“Beta Spencer, I will not have you spouting such blasphemy in my home,” Alpha Collins spat, his face a very unflattering shade of purple.
“My apologies, Alpha. I had no idea this pack was a part of the Old Church.” I shoved my chair back, scraping the legs across the floor, probably scuffing the immaculate wood. “I wouldn’t have come if I knew.”
The room erupted into shouting as I fled upstairs to pack and get the hell out of the backward ass territory.
As I shoved my belongings back into my duffel bag, I focused on breathing. I had never encountered an Old Church Pack. Aiden’s father shared some beliefs, but the Blue Moon Pack was secular, just like the Chicago pack I grew up in before my mom died. Alpha Collins allowing me to visit under the capacity of beta suggested they weren’t the most traditional, but it was clear where he drew the line.
Old Church Packs worshiped the Moon Goddess and had strict codes of conduct. Women were supposed to be mothers and wives, men ran the pack, and there were to be no relationships outside of the mate bond. My liberal parents never exposed us to the ideals of the Old Church, so when Aiden’s father harped on the importance of the mate bond, I was confused but respected his beliefs. My parents framed mates as a romantic ideal, while Alpha Williamson viewed it as an absolute that must be honored. Maybe that’s why I never questioned Aiden leaving me for Whitney.It had always been clear that we were over if he found his mate. I just never thought he would meet her.
Thinking back on the whole ordeal, I couldn’t believe how reasonable and calm I had been. I respected their bond without question and never contemplated him staying with me. What kind of bullshit brainwashing is that? What was it like for the true believers if a liberally raised wolf like me was so easily snowballed?
After talking to Grandma Rose, I had hard proof that the mate bond wasn’t the mystical absolute that wolf culture and my alpha had peddled me. Coming here only confirmed my new outlook. I was honestly embarrassed at how unexamined my beliefs on the subject had been, but I was going to rectify that situation toot sweet.
The bedroom door opened and quickly closed.
“What the fuck was that?” Brandon’s expression was one of pure disgust.
“I’m not going to apologize, Brand.”
“And why the fuck would you? Alpha Collins is a dick, Seth is a fucking coward, and Aiden is dead.”
Brandon tore off his button-down and threw it at his bag. He stalked into the bathroom, leaving me gobsmacked by the bed. I zipped up my bag and sat. I thought, honestly, I don’t know what I thought.
Brandon stormed out of the bathroom and hurried toward his stuff.
Glancing over his shoulder, he asked, “Why are you sitting down? We need to get the fuck out of here before I murder an alpha and his heir.”
“You’re not mad at me?”
That stopped Brandon’s erratic movements. He turned his whole body toward me. “You’re kidding, right?”
When I didn’t answer, he moved closer.
“That.” He pointed violently at the closed door. “Was disgusting. These people are fucked. I’m done here. I wanted to leave before dinner, but I couldn’t get a moment alone with you. I triedafter you stormed out of the office, but Seth followed you. When I caught up with you two outside, I was so shocked by what he was saying that I froze. I’m really sorry, Les. I should have gotten you out of that.”
“What did you hear?”
“Enough. Enough to know I’m done with Aiden, and I’m done with Seth.”
Being completely overwhelmed by everything happening, I buried my face in Brandon’s chest and sobbed. I was so relieved he was on my side. How could I have doubted him? As long as I had Brandon, I knew I’d be fine.
He patted my back and rocked us side to side. “Shh, there’s no reason to cry for these dickbags. Let’s get you home.”
I pulled away, nodding, and wiped my eyes. I only had to make it to the car. Then, I could fall apart.
Of course, Seth was waiting by the front door.
Brandon stepped in front of me. “I suggest you get the fuck out of my way before I end you.”
Seth tried to get around Brandon, but Brandon’s arm shot out.
“I said, get the fuck out of the way. We’re leaving.”
I grabbed Brandon’s shoulder to hold him back. “Go put the bags in the car. I’ll be out in five.”
“You sure?” Brandon looked like he would rather die than leave me alone with Seth.
“I’m sure.”
