Page 4 of A Mysterious Slave for the Lycan Prince

I nod gratefully. “Alright, I’ll humor you and Dad,” I tease, pretending it’s not the good idea that it is. I’m glad they’ve thought of a way to know if something is off with the team. It’s always good to have some backup. “What if it breaks, though?”

“It’s one of those ancient phones made to survive anything,” Liam replies with a smirk. “You will need your lycan to stomp on it for it to break.”

“Fair enough.” I laugh.

Liam pauses briefly before looking back at me seriously. “I’m very proud of you, Finn, of the man you’ve become. I always knew you had it in you to be a leader. Even during your rebellious teen phase, you always rose to the challenge and exceeded expectations.”

This is rare. Both Liam and my father are more the brooding and silent types, and they’re not known to give out praise without it being earned. So, to hear this from Liam means a lot. However, I don’t feel like I’ve done anything to deserve his high praise. “I haven’t done anything special, Liam.”

“I disagree. You are strong and kind, and you always look out for others. People trust you because you are genuine and honest. These are all great traits.” He leans back on the sofa. “You will do great on this mission, and I don’t think there’s anyone better qualified for it. This is not just something Dad handed to you because he took pity on you or to take your mind off searching for your mate. We chose you because you are one of the most capable people around. The group you will lead will be difficult, but none of us doubt your ability to keep them focused and on task.”

I don’t know what to say to that. This is the second time in two days that I feel at a loss for words because someone’s suddenly told me I’m great the way I am. It’s not that I lack confidence or anything, but as one of six siblings, I’m by far the most invisible, for lack of a better word. If it weren’t for my piercings, tattoos, and overall edgy look, I doubt anyone would notice me. “Thank you, Liam,” I say, because I have no idea what else to say. “I won’t disappoint you.”

He smiles knowingly at me. “I know.”

Before I can say anymore, the door opens, and Annie appears with one of the kitchen staff. They bring with them the scent of fresh coffee, sandwiches, and croissants.

“I figured you might be hungry,” Annie comments dryly. “You alpha wolves never seem to stop eating. You eat like there is no tomorrow.”

We both chuckle at her. She’s not wrong. We can eat a lot, and have alpha blood running through us. Liam’s alpha aura is far more distinctive and stronger than mine, as he was born to rule over others. I might have alpha blood, but I’m not as physically or mentally as strong as Liam, and I don’t have the same drive to lead that he does.

Still, I’m hungry as fuck.

“Finn,” Annie says, breaking the silence created by Liam and me munching on our sandwiches. She looks a little worried about something. “I have a huge request.”

I’m instantly concerned by her worried expression. Hopefully, nothing is seriously wrong. Annie is one of the most sincere and kindest people I’ve ever met. “Anything for you, Annie.”

“You don’t even know what I’m going to ask of you,” She smiles while replying.

“I know I will do it anyway,” I say with conviction. “So, what is it?”

“It’s about my brother.”

“Steve?” I blink.

“I’m very proud of him for being chosen for this mission. He is only nineteen and I know he will do well despite his age. He knows how to follow orders, and he won’t let you down, I promise. But Finn, he can be a bit reckless sometimes, and he…well, sometimes he is scared of asking too many questions because he thinks others might deem him as not bright enough. So, if he makes mistakes, it’s normally because of that.”

I nod tentatively. That’s good to know. It means I’ll need to encourage him to speak his mind. “I know he is going to do very well, Annie,” I reassure her. “Celine vouched for him, too, as his alpha.”

Annie smiles proudly. “He is really training hard for this mission.” She pauses again, making me wonder if she will finally ask me for the favor. “Finn, I won’t ask you for the impossible, which is to bring him home completely unharmed. I also won’t make you give me any promises, but…could you please just keep an eye out for him? Please.”

Liam has reached out his hand meanwhile, resting it against her knee. Now he puts his arms around her shoulders and kisses the top of her head. “Don’t worry too much, Annalise,” he murmurs into her hair.

“I swear I’ll do my best to protect him and bring him home safely,” I promise her. “Steve is a part of our family, and he’s like a brother to me. I won’t let you, or him down.”

After reviewing the details with Annie and Liam, I’m heading off to meet my team. The group I’m leading on this mission comprises a mix of wolves and lycans. So far, I’ve met with each of them individually, and we have also gone through some details in small groups, but this will be the first time we’ll meet together as an entire team. I’ve invited everyone to my apartment in Silverlake. My place is pretty big and will easily accommodate the whole group. It’s one of the many perks of being the alpha’s child.

What are your thoughts on our mission?I ask my wolf as Anders drives us back to Silverlake. Silence.Max? Still silent.Hello? Earth to Maximilian?

I can see his head pop up in my mind. He looks slightly disheveled.Oh sorry, didn’t catch that! What were you saying?

Seriously? Weren’t you listening at all?

He yawns loudly.I just had the best sleep ever. You can’t blame me.

Good to know you have my back,I huff. My wolf is huge and strong, but also the laziest wolf I have ever met. He rolls onto his back, stretching his limbs and rubbing his head along the ground. Such a dignified image, indeed.Is this how you are going to woo our mate when we find her?

He doesn’t even bother to change position, just turns his head slightly, rubbing his back against the ground and letting his tongue hang out.Oh, we both know we have a true weapon in our pants. If that won’t woo her, I don’t know what will!

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