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Time for Truth

By: Iread2relax



Hello everyone. 

Welcome back to my exciting world of the Ivanovs and the Loess Pack. I tried to stay away, truly I did, but the story just wouldn't be quiet. So many unanswered questions, and who would ask the most. The children would. So here we go once again. It's time to learn the truth. 

This story is a continuation of the She Wolf Series. Please read that story before reading this one. It contains background information that is crucial to understanding this portion of the tale. 

It is self-edited, but please don't let the errors distract you from the tale.

A special thanks to Willieone for helping me figure out a title. Way to go, girly!

MSBLING59 You asked for it. You said write something by Christmas, so this is for you.



Time for Truth Ch. 02



Hello everyone. 

Welcome back to my exciting world of the Ivanovs and the Loess Pack. I tried to stay away, truly I did, but the story just wouldn't be quiet. So many unanswered questions, and who would ask the most. The children would. So here we go once again. It's time to learn the truth. 

This story is a continuation of the She Wolf Series. Please read that story before reading this one. It contains background information that is crucial to understanding this portion of the tale. 

I would like to thank FK for editing this chapter. Any errors are mine and not because of this wonderful person.





Time for Truth Ch. 02



Love, they are young. They met some kids there and exchanged numbers. It's no big deal. Margaret replied. 

At the same time, Reina was trying to pacify an irritated Levin. They are girls. Of course boys will notice them. she told her mate.

The girls were in Marisol's room talking about the boys they'd met. Marisol liked Timothy and hoped he'd actually call as he promised. Soon Harriet and Megan had to go and get their chores done, so Marisol offered to help. The three girls worked together the rest of the day. At dinner time, everyone reported to the dining hall and Marisol helped serve. At first the Omegas in charge tried to send her back to her family, but she refused. Margaret was very proud of her. Her granddaughter was not afraid of hard work.

Zeke came in and prepared his plate. He needed rolls, and Marisol had brought out fresh ones. She was serving, just like a common Omega. He was impressed. He smiled at her, but she quickly walked away. Feeling slightly dejected, Zeke ate his dinner and then left the dining hall. Knox and the guys finished, and they headed out for awhile. Zeke had no problem attracting women in the past, and tonight when they arrived at the Silver Slippers things were no different. Four women slipped him their numbers as soon as he entered the club, but he passed the numbers off to his friends. 

The guys made sure they had singles and were waiting for the show to begin. Soon the owner, Buck, announced that the show was about to start. Zeke watched as a gorgeous long-legged blonde came out to dance. Scantily dressed in a farm girl costume that barely held her triple D's in place, she performed her routine. The men around him were entranced, but Zeke had no desire to see this woman naked. 

She finished her show, collected her bills and clothes, and exited the stage. "What the fuck, man? You're dead tonight. What gives," Knox asked? "Did the Alpha blast you about his precious granddaughter again?"

"Yes, and ruined my day," Zeke answered. He was not about to tell this guy that Marisol was his mate. It wasn't his business. 

The next girl came up, and she captivated his interest. The girl was not very tall. She had sun-kissed skin. She had a head full of curly brown hair that she'd pinned up. Her curves were womanly, but not overt. Zeke felt his cock stir. The girl wore a cute little school girl outfit. In his mind, she became the one girl he found himself desiring. She began to dance, and Zeke's imagination went wild. He saw Marisol dancing just for him. His cock hardened, and his heart raced. For a moment, only he and his fantasy woman were in the room. Soon, her dance ended, and Zeke realized she was not the one he wanted. His cock went limp, and he knew he was screwed. He could no longer touch any other woman but his intended mate. Five years of celibacy was going to be a long ass time.

He groaned, and Knox laughed. "Damn, she was hot. Man you should get her number," he suggested. Zeke laughed at this pun, and excused himself to get a drink. As he was ordering the dancer they'd just watched walked up to the bar. She introduced herself, and he was polite. He complimented her dancing, but once he saw her up close he realized that she did not even compare to the girl he dreamed of. He ordered a soda after deciding that tonight someone had to stay sober.

Soon the night ended, and the guys headed back to Wildwood. Zeke went to bed while castigating himself. Five years was a long ass time. He rose the next morning and reported to his job. As a Beta, he patrolled the perimeter of the compound, and he also worked as security at the office. He went to breakfast, and listened as people chattered. The girls came in, and he overheard Marisol's name. He also heard something about her meeting a boy. His wolf growled. He waited for her to join them, and five minutes later he got his wish. Marisol was breath-takingly beautiful. She sat with her friends, laughing and talking. That is until she saw him, and her smile vanished.

You need to talk to her, his wolf demanded. She cannot go out with another male!

Stop, she is young and we gave our word, he reminded his ticked off wolf. Lakota and Margaret walked in, and both noticed how Zeke glowered at their granddaughter.

ZEKE!  Lakota warned. Zeke dropped his head and left. Margaret looked at her mate and said, "Lakota, she is so young. How can he... She needs time...." Lakota kissed his wife. 

"Love, Levin and I both talked to him. He will wait," he reassured his wife. 

"Grandma, Grandpa, good morning," Marisol greeted them when they entered. Kayla and Jayden had eaten earlier and were with their caregiver. Levin and Reina had gone to work, and her grandparents were about to go. Marisol decided to help her friends with chores again today.

"Hi sweetheart, don't overdo it today. You are just visiting, remember," Margaret reminded her. The three chatted before they ate and went off to their respective jobs. 

Marisol was so relaxed. She'd been here three days and had not had the dream again. Suddenly, her phone rang and she was excited when she answered, because it was Timothy. He was calling to see if the girls wanted to hang out that evening. She agreed, and all three girls were excited at the prospect of seeing the boys again.

They were meeting the boys at six, and they decided to dress in similar colors. Harriet had her own car, so she'd drive them. Marisol called her grandmother and told her of her plans. Margaret approved, but told her she'd assign someone to drive them and serve as an extra guard. Marisol felt relief. Not that she thought something would happen, but she felt better knowing someone would be with them just in case.

Margaret called her head female Beta and asked her to assign someone to accompany the girls, but she said she'd go with them as opposed to assigning someone else the task. The day went on uneventfully, and soon, it was time for the girls to go, so they went to meet the guard that was driving them. The three girls were heading to the car when Marisol walked past Zeke. He stopped, and they looked at each other. He didn't say anything to her. He just stood there and looked at her. She felt butterflies in her stomach, but she simply looked away and rushed by him. He stepped aside and let her go. 

The week Marisol visited flew by, and soon it was time for her to go home. She hugged her family and thanked them for having her. She hugged and said goodbye to her friends. She'd miss them, but she was ready to go home. Zeke had avoided her the rest of the week, and he was perturbed that she didn't seem to notice. However, when she left, he shifted and spied on her from the side of the house. As she was heading out to fly home she noticed Zeke watching her. Suddenly, the butterflies returned, and she shivered. She felt strange, but dismissed it as simply feeling a bit melancholy about leaving.





Time for Truth Ch. 02



"We haven't even started classes yet. How do you know who's in your class already," Ares asked? The other guys listened, and Paul laughed and soon they dressed and headed to their first classes. College was different from high school in Texas, but not much. Although, they found the instructors seemed to love singling out the boys with the southern accents.

The rest of the week went by filled with classes, learning their way around the campus, and meeting their fellow students, but by the end of the week the boys were getting excited about the arrival of Grandma Nina and Grandpa Thaddeus who would be arriving this weekend. They were scheduled to arrive on Saturday and Benny could barely contain his excitement. He couldn't wait to get to the compound, and see his family united once again. He knew it wasn't the whole family, but Grandma was coming and that was a good first step.





Time for Truth Ch. 03



Hello everyone. 

In this chapter, we get the Thane's Alpha point of view. We find out what happened when Nina left. Please read it and share your thoughts at the end.

********

Nina and Thaddeus arrived in California early. As they prepared to exit the plane, Nina had a small panic attack. Over three decades had passed since she left home, what if they resented her returning. Alpha Thane and Madam Alpha Brandy seemed to welcome her, but what if... Nina shook her head to stop the fearful thoughts.

"Baby, I'm here. I promise you I will keep you safe." Thaddeus whispered to his nervous mate. Nina smiled, and sent him a giant mental hug. They exited the plane and entered the airport. It was huge. People were everywhere, and Nina was awed by the sheer size of the place. She looked around and them she saw them: The Thane wolves. 

Nina turned and faced the members of her former pack, and in the middle of the two men, she saw her mother. She ran to her; she ran past people that were arriving and leaving. Parents and children gaped at her, as did airport security. Many were confused at first, but by the time she reached her mother, most shared in their joy. Within seconds, she launched herself into her mother's arms. The two women embraced, tears flowing, mumbling incoherent words of gratitude and love. Thaddeus soon joined her, tears streaming down his cheeks as he witnessed his love finally reunited with her mother. 

"Son, welcome. I'm Jebediah and this is Clarence. Welcome, welcome to California. Welcome to Thane." Jebediah paused and introduced himself to Nina's mate. "Come with us. We have a van waiting. We are so glad to have you here. This is a great day for our family." The three men gathered the luggage headed to the exit. 

Nina held tightly to her mother. Hannah for the second time in her two hundred years defied her alpha. Hannah thought of their earlier conversation. 

Two hours before their flight arrived, Michael spoke once again with Alpha Loess, and was now prepared to greet his guest. "Clarence, Nina and her mate will arrive at two this afternoon. I want you to pick them up and bring them here." Michael ordered his most trusted beta and best friend. 

Clarence was about to answer when Jebediah spoke. "Alpha Michael, can I go with him? Nina has been gone for a long time. It would be good for her to see a familiar face when she gets here." He suggested. In all honesty, he needed to see his daughter. He needed to make sure it was really her. Michael, started to protest, Jebediah was Theta, not Beta, and he would normally allow only high ranking wolves to go the places like the crowded airport.

Clarence spoke at this point, and he agreed with Jebediah. Nina might be more relaxed if someone from her family greeted her. So instead of another beta accompanying him, Jebediah would go. Hannah came to the Alpha's office to ask about the time her daughter would be here. Michael gave her their ETA and explained that Clarence and Michael were picking Nina and her mate up. Hannah nodded, and knew she had to go see her daughter. "Alpha, I want to go with them. I won't be in their way. I just need to see my baby." She explained. 

"Hannah, you know the rules. I have assigned a set of wolves to meet her. We will alert you when she arrives." Michael explained.

Hannah squared her shoulders and looked her Alpha in the eye. "You won't have to inform me, because I am going with them to greet my daughter. If you want to punish me later, do so. But at two when Clarence and Jebediah go, I'm going with them." She declared.

At first, Michael started the remind Hannah that he was Alpha here, but he couldn't. He hurt her enough decades ago. So Michael Thane, Alpha of the pack simply nodded and said two words, "Yes Ma'am."

Now Hannah held her daughter close, in a crowded airport, in a large city. She was grateful that he allowed her to come. Hannah knew he only tolerated it because he felt guilty and he should. In all the years he had served as Alpha, Hannah never really defied him, until now. This, she swore, would be her last time. 

Her daughter was home and safe. She could rest easier now. She thought of her life mate, Amos, and felt a sharp pang. Nina's banishment broke him, but he still respected his alpha and honored his decree. When they were told she and the children perished, her mate lost it. It took Madam Alpha, Miriam and many of the pack members helping her so that she did not follow her mate into insanity.

The small group waited while Clarence brought the van around. It was in this short time that Nina had a chance to speak with Jebediah. "This is the one time I am glad Alpha Michael was wrong. I am so happy you are home Nina. You and your family are home." Jebediah declared. Nina hugged the older gentleman. A part of her hurt that her father passed, but at least her family was still here. 

"I'm glad to come home, Papa Jeb. Let's go see our family." Nina declared as she reached for her mate's hand. Clarence pulled up and the women climbed in. Thaddeus helped load the van and soon they were off. 

Michael was nervous. Clarence called and informed them that they were on their way back. Michael would face the one woman he wronged egregiously many decades ago. Four decades ago he trusted his brother. His blind trust was the start of over four decades of pain and mistrust in his pack. Today he had a chance to meet Nina and possibly earn her forgiveness and respect. 

Love, stop worrying.  Brandy sent.

Michael chuckled. I'm not worried. My bad decision cost this woman decades of her life without her family. Had I been more vigilant, I should have seen that my brother was unstable. As Alpha that was my job, and I messed up.  he sent.

Come to the bedroom. I want to help you relax.  His mate sent. Michael complied and went to his private chambers. As he entered, her scent bombarded him. She wanted him and he had no desire to refuse his woman.

"Well mate, we have some time before our guest arrive. Let me help relieve your tension" Brandy suggested saucily as she deftly closed their bedroom door and focused her attention on the mate's ever growing cock. Stroking his thick cock, Brandy whispered, "We don't have time to do what I really want, but I can help you relax really quickly."

Gently she shoved her mate to their bed and he sat. She quickly unfastened his belt as she nibbled on his delicious neck. She loved the way her man taste, all spicy and sweet. He was hard as steel, his seven inch cock begged for her attention. Her moth watered, but she didn't have time to indulge. They had to be quick, but later she would taste all she wanted. Kneeling above his body, Brandy spoke to her mate, her lover. "You Michael Thane are a good alpha. You messed up, but you learned from that mistake. I stood with you then, and I stand with you now and forever. She grasped his turgid staff, stroking him in sure slow strokes. She grasped him tightly, and she knew she had to have him. For a few minutes she could take his mind off of his problem and she would. As she stroked his cock, Michael moaned. "Brandy, oh girl I love you." She kissed him. She loved this tall quiet man. He was not the type to be loud, overbearing, but he stuck to his principles. 

"Michael, I need you." She whispered. And she did, He always excited her, but now seeing him so torn and worried, she needed reassurance. She needed him to love her. Rolling over, Michael covered her body with his, claiming her lips, he worshiped his woman. Sliding his hand beneath her dress he ripped away her panties exposing her hot weeping cunt to his nimble fingers. He cupped her sex. Feeling her heat made him moan. "Michael, please." She whispered. That's all he needed to here, and within seconds he slid his long furious cock inside her hot sheath. Both moaned in ecstasy at their joining. 

Michael loved his woman sliding in and out of her body. She fit him like a glove. Uggggg,  He groaned, loving her heat and loving her scent.

Alpha we will be there shortly.  Clarence, the beta that was sent to pick Nina and her mate up at the airport, sent. Interrupting their coupling. 

Um, ok give us a few minutes to cum, um come down.  Michael replied, quickly ending their conversation. 

"Baby, what is it?" Brandy asked, so close, yet not there. "Nothing, girl. You feel so good." He groaned in her ear. Pumping vigorously, he needed to hear her scream for him. She was his and only he could bring her pleasure in this way.

"Oh Luna! Michael." She moaned. He filled her like no other. She was burning, so hot, and so ready to explode. Moving her hips she met him thrust for thrust. Taking all of him deep inside if her, begging him to flood her womb.

"Please, baby. Please." Brandy begged. "Cum inside me. Cum inside."

Three hard thrust later Michael succumbed to his baser needs. "Ahhhhhh, baby!" He yelled as he came deep inside of the body. 

Trembling, breathing hard, and sweaty, the Alpha pair held each other. Still joined, but knowing that soon they had to go to the office and meet their guest. Michael sighed, "I love you Brandy. You are my life." 

Brandy smiled. "I love you too honey. Let's shower and then go meet our guest." She added. In an ambiance of post coital bliss, they shared a quick shower. Which ended in Michael loving his woman once more. 

Soon they were dressed and ready to meet their guest. Michael stood and took a deep breath. "Baby, come on. I've got your back on this." They left their chambers and headed to his office.

Clarence chuckled, "What is it?" Jebediah demanded. 

"Well, the Alphas are somewhat detained, but will join us shortly." He explained. Soon the small caravan arrived at Thane. Clarence and Jebediah got out and called some of the Theta males to carry the luggage inside. Thaddeus, Hannah, and Nina crawled out. Clarence and Jebediah took them directly into the Alpha home. This was unusual because normally they would greet guest at the community center. Michael and Brandy were still in their chambers. Nina was nervous. She had not faced this alpha in decades. 

The two sat down and an omega brought them tea. Hannah addressed Clarence and Jebediah and told them that she was not leaving her daughter alone with the alphas again. The men left and Nina took a minute to calm down and admire the room. Not much change it was still beautiful and she wondered that if over the years had anything changed? 

Jebediah returned to the office to check on them and tell them that Clarence was checking on the Alphas once more. Thaddeus had lots of respect for the two wolves that he'd met. On the way to the Thane compound, he learned that Jebediah was Benson's father. He never agreed with the Alpha's decree, but according to their laws he was within his rights. He actually planned to go with them, but his wife and other children needed him. He explained that each day for months after Nina and the kids left, he searched the surrounding lands, hoping to find a trace of them or something. He never gave up, and when the pack was told they died, it ripped his family to threads.

Jebediah spoke of Amos, Nina's father. He stopped because it was such a hard time and losing his oldest friend was devastating, but he promised him he'd look after Hannah, so he struggled and kept his word. 

Clarence entered the room and smiled. Nina was home and every once was rejoicing. One day before she returned to Texas, he'd apologize to her for his failure to protect her family. For decades, Clarence too felt guilty. He was aware of what Isaac was doing, but too afraid to approach the Alphas as well. 

Clearing his throat, he drew the group's attention. "The Alphas will be down shortly." Clarence reassured their anxious guest. Thaddeus smiled and thanked the beta. Jebediah had to leave and perform his duties before Nina and Thaddeus met the rest of the pack. Soon, only Nina, Thaddeus, and Hannah were seated in the office. Then, the door to the office opened. All three turned. Michael walked in and he was just as Nina remembered him. Tall, regal, and serious. He looked older, more distinguished. Alright mate, he maybe your former alpha, but you belong with me Thaddeus sent. Nina laughed and reminded her mate that she was his.

"Nina and Thaddeus, welcome to Thane." Michael greeted his guest. Brandy knew her mate was nervous and still carried guilt from years before. Nina smiled as Thaddeus stood and accepted Michael's extended hand. Michael sighed somewhat relieved. Brandy then spoke. She didn't extend her hand, nor did she remain regal. 

Rushing forward, she hugged her former pack member, shedding tears of relief and joy. "Welcome home, Nina. Welcome home." She cried. Nina had no choice but to embrace the other woman. And Hannah too was pulled into the embrace. Soon the women composed themselves, and Brandy laughed. "Look at me, crying like a baby."

Everyone laughed and relaxed. "Nina, Thaddeus, let's get you settled, and then we will take you to your family." Michael stated. Nina faced her former alpha when he addressed her directly. "We must talk. I have wronged you more than anyone else and Nina, I'm sorry. We will talk, just not now."

Nina faced her former Alpha and spoke to him for the first time in over four decades. "Thank you for allowing us to come, Alpha Michael. I know you didn't have to do this. So thank you."

Michael smiled and for the first time in years he felt less tense. "Well let me show you to your room. I want you to know how happy I am that you have come home Nina. You and your mate are more than welcomed here. You are home. Come with us." He added, as he and Brandy gave them a brief tour of the alpha home and allowed them time to settle into their private chambers. Hannah went with them, holding tightly to her daughter. Michael sighed, both happy and hurt. He was happy that Nina was alive and thriving, but hurt that his beloved pack member held such distrust for him. Michael sighed and Brandy whispered, I love you. He returned the sentiment, thanking Luna for giving him such a compassionate mate. 

"We will let you settle in before joining the pack for lunch. I'll come get you shortly." Brandy explained. "Hannah, can you come and help me make sure everything is prepared?" She asked. She knew Nina and her mate needed a moment alone. She also knew Hannah never wanted to leave her daughter's side. Hannah agreed and Nina smiled at Brandy. Brandy nodded and the three left the couple alone. 

Alone in their bedroom, Thaddeus instinctively held Nina a bit tighter. He knew his reaction was because of his hidden fear. His fear that had no basis for existing. The two talked and eventually Brandy returned. It was time to see the rest of the family.

Soon the group stood and walked over to the community center. Every wolf was there on high alert. As Nina entered pandemonium erupted. Protocol was promptly forgotten and the betas moved quickly to restore order. Michael halted them and let the family reunite. As he waited, He was alerted that the boys had arrived from their apartment. 

When they walked into the center, Miriam screamed and rushed to her daughter. Nina's banishment hurt her deeply. She lost her son, his mate, and her grandchildren in a blink of an eye. 

"Nina, my daughter, Nina." Miriam cried holding Nina close. Jebediah had made it inside and the sight of his love weeping caused him to weep. Soon all of Benson's siblings had greeted and welcomed Nina home. Thaddeus was overcome with emotion at the reunion. He sent a shaft of love to his mate, and felt both of his brothers lending him their strength. Javon, her family, they love her so much.  he sent. Jasmine and Theo sensed their parents' distress and Thaddeus sent both kids a mental hug. 

Blaine helped Celia cope as she struggled to contain her emotions as she too was bombarded with the plethora of emotions her mother was unable to contain. "Baby, Momma needs me. I need to." Celia started saying when Nicky walked in.

"Momma, are you going to California too. Please, don't leave us too. First, Benny. And then Grandpa and Grandma went. I don't want you to go." Nickie cried as her younger siblings ran in. All three of her kids hugged Celia and helped ground her. 

Meanwhile, BJ was one step away from losing it. He too could feel his mother's erratic emotions. He was ready to vanish when Javier and Theo stopped him. "BJ, what's wrong with Momma and Daddy?" His younger brother asked. He had to comfort the younger boys and told them that Momma and Daddy were safe. They would probably call soon. Kyra was at home with Malcolm and their daughters, and she too sense her mother's emotions. "Malcom, I have to go." She said to her mate.

Malcolm held her close as their two girls ran in. "Baby, let's go to Celia's OK. If your big sister agrees, I will book our flight." He added. Kyra held on to her mate as her girls enveloped her into a tight embrace. 

Emotions were high, and the air was tense. Michael knew he had to get everyone under control. Everyone, calm down. Sit.  he commanded.

Within seconds, order had returned and Nina and Thaddeus were released. "Nina, Thaddeus, please join us at the Alpha table." Michael requested. They stood to comply when the boys walked in.

"Grandma, Grandpa" Benny greeted them, as did Ares. Soon they too joined the Daniels family and waited for Alpha Michael to speak. Michael stood and addressed his pack. He introduced Thaddeus and reintroduced Nina. He welcomed his former pack member home. 

Everyone cheered. Soon they ate and everyone mingled. Thaddeus took a moment to check in with Lars and Terse. He learned that the boys were fine, and being respectful so far. He talked with several pack members and felt more than welcomed. Brandy stood with Michael, and Thaddeus noticed that the Alpha pair had segregated themselves from the gathering. He didn't like it so he joined them. Thaddeus liked Michael, but he wanted to know one thing.

"The Beta that caused this, what happened to him?" he asked. 

Michael looked away and Thaddeus noticed that tears glistened in his eyes. "He's dead. I will tell both of you about him when we sit down to talk. He is gone and can no longer cause problems." He added sadly.

Thaddeus nodded. Then he decided to change the topic, "So my grandson and nephew are here. Are they running you ragged yet?" 

Michael laughed, "No, they are good kids. All four of them. I'm happy to have them here. Hopefully, at some point they will want to stay here at the compound and not in the city." He added.

Nina was missing her mate and found him talking with the Alpha. She joined them with Thaddeus placing a possessive arm around her. Michael could see how much he loved her and it was obvious that she was just as taken by him. They had been mated for over twelve years now, and he could see it was a good match. That revelation gave him another sense of peace. 

The day grew late and Nina and Thaddeus went to their room in the Alpha's home. She was happy. For the first time, Nina didn't feel the cloud that covered her all of these years. Thaddeus was invited to go on a hunt with a group of betas, but he wasn't sure if he wanted to leave her side. She told him to go. She wanted some time alone. He left and she called her sister. Nina talked with Nicolette, and told her about reuniting with her Mom. Nicki was happy for her, and told her if she needed her in anyway, she was there in a flash. The two women said good night, when someone knocked on her door. 

"Come in." Nina called, and Brandy entered.

"Hey, can we talk for a minute?" Brandy asked hesitantly.

"Sure," Nina replied. She recalled every moment of everything that happened. She also remembered that Brandy tried to talk her husband out of his decision, but in the end as his mate she had to support his decision. 




Time for Truth Ch. 03



"I know we will meet and talk about everything tomorrow. I also know you have every reason to hate us, but Michael is a good man. He made a stupid decision based on lies he was fed. Isaac manipulated..." she stopped. She had said too much. She knew Nina would retort now and was surprised when the other woman said nothing.

"He loves you Brandy, and you love him." Nina explained. You had only been mated a short time when he became Alpha. So at no time, did I ever blame you. I was just glad he let me leave, because he had grounds to have me killed and didn't. I promise to listen, OK."

Brandy hugged her once more. "You are so strong, Nina. So brave, not many would have survived. I am honored to finally get to see you again." Then Brandy returned to her chambers.

She lay on bed and waited for Michael to return. Soon she would go in heat, and maybe this time, maybe they would finally be blessed with a child of their own. She knew Michael wanted a son, but he believed that the reason they had no pups was his fault. He failed as alpha and the fates refused to grant them a child. Now that Nina was home, and soon her children would visit, maybe they would be blessed a little one this year.

********

Grandma and Grandpa had gone to California to see Grandma's former pack. Marisol was excited for Grandma, because she knew she really missed her family. She was also excited because she would start school Monday. In five months she would be graduating, and going to LSU.

She smiled, as she thought about the school and seeing her friends in the Gaines pack again. Marisol would miss her few friends she had here as well, but Timothy was in Louisiana and she looked forward to seeing him again. "Mari, what are you thinking about?" Rosita asked as she joined her sister for breakfast early Saturday morning.

"I'm thinking about when I can go to college, squirt. It's going to be so great." She mused. Rosita's face fell. But she plastered on a smile before Marisol noticed. 

"Well, you have to finish school here first. I can't believe you want to leave us so badly." She joked, but Marisol heard the undertone in her voice. It was then she looked closely at her little sister. She realized that she was really sad.

"Rosita, I love you. All of you, but this is a chance for me to try something new." Marisol explained. "I will always be there for you. You know that right."

Rosita smiled and hugged her big sister. Soon their younger sisters joined them, and Marisol made a quick breakfast for them. Javier came rushing down at some point, and he was headed out. Theo stayed at the Alpha's home and he was meeting with him to work on a project they had started. Javier quickly hugged all four of his sisters and dashed out of the door. 

Eventually, Mama and Papa got up and made coffee. Marisol could see that Papa was worried, and it made her nervous. BJ knew his daughter, and her tendency to worry. He hugged her and told her he was fine. Then he asked her to help with the little ones today because they needed all hands on deck. Marisol agreed immediately. "Oh, and Mari, I know you are hiding something. If you can't talk to me, then talk to Mama. OK." BJ whispered in her ear as he hugged her.

She returned his hug, "Yes, Papa." She answered, wondering How did he know? It didn't surprise her. Since she was small and he found her, Papa knew her. He was spooky sometimes, because it seemed as if he could read her mind. He was always aware of what she was thinking and feeling. He was overprotective to a fault, but she loved him. When she was younger, she would often talk to him and Mama about the dream, but she was almost grown now. She needed to deal with this on her own. She knew it wasn't a dream, just a memory. She also knew that it reoccurred whenever change happened in her life. Benny leaving probably triggered it. 

But last night was different. Why was Zeke in her dream? In the dream, he protected her. He smiled at her and something melted inside of her. His eyes were brilliant and his smile the sweetest thing she'd ever seen. When he whispered to her, her heart raced. Then the dream ended. It was strange because Zeke did not like her and he often made his dislike of her obvious. Something about him was different on her most recent visit. He teased her at first and then ignored her for the rest of the week. "Mari we're done." Heaven called out. Marisol smiled and gathered their dishes. The girls went to their room and she went to wash the dishes as she thought about her visit to Wildwood the week before. As Marisol cleaned the kitchen, she thought about the beta in her grandfather's pack. He was a jerk, and last night her dream meant nothing. It was probably her brain telling her she didn't have to deal with him for a while.

"Mari, Mari, can you take us to Aunt Kyra's?" the twin's rushed in just as she put up the last dish and asked. Marisol smiled, she had not visited Aunt Kyra in a while so she'd love to take, them. "Mama, Papa, I'm walking the girls to Aunt Kyra's." she called out. And soon, she and her siblings headed out. Marisol arrived at her Aunt's and the two took time to talk. Kyra knew she was hiding something, and being the youngest Aunt, she related more to her niece.

"Ok, Marisol, spill." She demanded once the twins and her nieces headed out. 

"Aunt Kyra, promise not to say anything to Papa. OK." Marisol pleaded. She loved talking with her Aunt. She could talk to Mama, but Aunt Kyra was easier because she never tried to fix it. She just listened.

"It depends, but I will try." She promised, "OK."

"Ok, I met a boy in Shreveport. His name is Timothy and he seemed really nice. He's so cute. He's human. We exchanged numbers and I talked to him last night. I really like him, but..." Marisol looked away.

"But what Marisol?" Kyra asked. 

"I had the dream again before I went to Wildwood. Aunt Kyra, I hate that dream. It's scary, and I never felt so scared. I hate that dream. I know it' because Benny was leaving, but I had it again last night. The thing is last night's dream was different." Marisol exhaled. 

Kyra waited, as she waited she mentally checked on her daughters and her nieces. They were fine. "At Wildwood, there's this guy. Zeke Abraham. He hates me. I don't know why. Anyway, when I got there he gave me a hard time and then Uncle Levin dealt with him. After that he never said anything else to me. The thing is I think about him and I get these feelings. Last night, I had the dream again and Zeke was in it. He stopped the man and smiled at me. Kyra, I felt something for him." Marisol groaned, frustrated. "The guy can't stand me, so why is he invading my dreams."

"Marisol, tell me about this guy. What is he like?" Kyra probed. 

"Zeke Abraham is a jerk. Whenever I visit Grandma, he always does stuff to me. This time, he came to my room to mess with me. Why, I don't know. He doesn't like me. As handsome as he is he can have any woman he wants, and from what I have heard, he has." Marisol growled. Kyra noticed. She realized her niece had feeling for this man. She was young, but she suspected that this guy, Zeke, would become an important factor in the future.

"I mean, how many women does one man need?" Marisol griped. She continued on about Zeke and his womanizing ways. Kyra smiled, her niece had met her mate, but she had no idea. Soon Marisol had talked everything out and took a breath. Kyra took a breath and asked, "So, are you going to call Timothy later?"

Marisol laughed, "No, he has a thing with his family. So he'll call tonight. I might call Venus and Harriet though." She explained. Yea, I can call my friends and see what's happening today. she thought.

Kyra laughed, "Yes and maybe they can spy on Zeke for you." She teased. 

Marisol squealed, "Ug, Zeke, Nope, don't even go there." Tossing a pillow at her aunt. Kyra laughed.

The two women talked and soon the girls napped. Kyra froze and Marisol knew something was happening with Grandma. Malcolm came home and immediately took Kyra in his arms as she began to cry uncontrollably. Marisol, something is happening, Papa is upset.  Rosita sent to her sister. "Uncle Malcolm, Papa, I need to get...,"she told her Uncle.

"Go. Marisol, the twins can stay here." Malcom suggested.

Marisol rushed home to find her mother holding her father trying to calm him down. "Mama, what?" she asked.

"Grandma is with her family and her emotions are affecting all three of her kids. They feel what she'd feeling. We have to keep them here, so help me calm your father." Julianne explained.

Marisol hugged her Papa. She hugged the only man that ever made her feel completely safe. She cried with him because she knew he wanted to go there. "Papa, please calm down. Please stay here with us. We need you here." Marisol pleaded. The sound of his little girl crying was enough to make him calm down. BJ cried as he held his mate and daughter close. At this point, Javier and Theo ran in, both boys were crying and confused. BJ slipped into Daddy and big brother mode. He comforted the boys. Eventually, Grandma Nina's emotions leveled out and she sent that she was fine. They had no need to worry.

Julianne held her husband, and Marisol realized her parents needed time alone. A few minutes later, Rosita rushed in and Marisol asked her to help her with Javier and Theo. Jasmin was at the Alpha home and Marisol wanted to check on her. She stayed with her brother and uncle and when they decided to nap, she headed to the Alpha home. On the way, she saw that Malcolm and Kyra were at Aunt Celia's the girls were with them, but maybe she needed to take the kids. In a pack, you filled in where you were needed. If today the pack needed someone to take the kids, then Marisol would gladly fulfill that role.

Javon and Elise called all of Nina's children to the Alpha home. Marisol met them there and Elsie asked her to sit with the young ones until an Omega arrived to get them. As soon as someone came, she needed to join her family. Eventually, everyone gathered in the family room. This was an emotional time for the pack and Javon needed everyone together. Thaddeus sent and told him they were fine, but he needed his family around him. Nina was more to him than his brother's mate. She was truly a sister to him. He leant his brother his strength. He feared that Nina might want to return to Thane. If she went home, he'd lose Thaddeus. Then Jasmine and Theo would go. What if the others followed? He didn't want to have to give up part of his pack. Love, stop worrying, Elise sent, giving him a mental hug. 

Javon faced his family. These people were not just members of his pack. They were his family. "I know you can be there in a blink, but I'm asking you to let us arrange your visit. I will talk with Alpha Thane and concur with your schedules."

Celia wanted to argue, but she remembered her babies crying. So she agreed. Once Celia agreed to wait BJ and Kyra followed her lead. The entire group needed to be together, and after a while emotions calmed and everyone went home. Marisol reported to the dining hall with Rosita. As he was helping stet up for dinner, Timothy called. She told Rosita to cover her, and stepped out to talk to her friend. They talked for a while and Timothy told her he had a great time with his family. He was actually planning a trip to Texas with some friends. He wanted to hook up. Marisol was excited, and she told him to call her back with details. She had work to do so they hang up. Marisol set about her task. She laughed as Rosita and her friends dealt with some of the younger males that were trying to get their attention. Marisol laughed. She was truly content. Her family was healing and she had a new friend she was excited to see.

Zeke threw himself into his work. She was gone back to Texas. He knew boys noticed her, and had to fight to keep his wits about him. He closed his eyes and pictured her smiling face. His heart hurt. She was his. His wolf was furious, and his friends had no idea what was going on. It was time for dinner, but he wasn't hungry. He skipped it. Knox and the guys were going out, but he opted to stay in. Locking himself in his room, Zeke had to come to terms with the fact that his mate was hundreds of miles away. 

We need to go to Loess Falls. She is ours Zeke. his wolf mourned. 

I know, my wolf. I miss her too. She is not ready for us and I'm sure she hates us. We have time. We can win her favor and one day we will join with her. Zeke spoke softly to his wolf to calm him.

********

Alpha Thane sat in his office the next morning. Today he would meet with Nina and explain. There was so much that he needed to account for, but he wanted her forgiveness most of all. Brandy joined her husband and assured him once again that it would be alright. 

"Michael, love, when will Nina and Thaddeus be here?" she asked.

"We meet at ten. I came down early. I want you here with me."} Michael explained as he pulled her into his lap. Brandy smiled and held him close. "Of course Michael. I'm here, but first I need breakfast." She exclaimed.

Michael laughed, "Me too. Do you want to call an order in or eat with the pack this morning?" he asked. He could easily send for and omega to bring them breakfast.

"No, let's go to the dining hall. We need to be a part of the pack, especially now." Brandy explained. Michael agreed and thanked Luna for her. She kept him grounded. He thought of last night, and how thoroughly his wife cared for him. Cool it big boy. If you're nice, I might reward you later. Brandy chuckled.

I'll hold you to that, dear, Michael sent with a big mental kiss. Soon they entered the dining hall and Nina and her mate were sitting with her family. Benny, Ares, and the other boys had class, so they would be back later in the day. Michael chuckled, it seemed that several of the young females in his pack were enamored with the young men from the southeast. The Alpha pair walked over and greeted their guest. 

"Good morning, I hope everyone rested well?" Michael asked. Thaddeus and Nina assured him that they were more than comfortable. Michael and Brandy stayed a few more minutes, but they knew that the family really wanted to be left alone. So they bid everyone good morning and reminded everyone about the meeting. They went to their table and ate. Brandy noticed that Michael seemed a bit put out by the brief encounter. She knew that most of the pack were somewhat reserved around her spouse. He was not outgoing, and his personality was always serious. She grabbed his hand beneath the table and squeezed. I'm here love. I will always be here. Brandy sent and Michael squeezed her hand in reply.

The Omegas brought food and coffee, but Brandy didn't have much of an appetite. Michael was concerned. "Love, are you alright? " He asked searching their bond for anything out of place. 

"I'm fine. Just a bit off. I'll see a healer after the meeting, OK." Brandy assured him. 

"I'll call Chase now." Michael declared. Chase something is wrong with the Alpha Madam. Meet us at our chambers. he sent.

Yes Alpha. Chase replied. He then made excuses to his friends and reported to the Alpha homes. Michael and Brandy left the dining hall normally because they did not want to cause a scene. However, Clarence noticed. Something was wrong with the Alphas. He called several betas and ordered then to maintain order. He went to the Alpha home just as the healer arrived. 

"Alpha Michael, are you ill? Is Alpha Madam ill?" Clarence asked. Michael trusted very few people. He counted himself as one of the few that he did. If something was going on, he wanted his friend to know that he was there.

"Madam Brandy is not feeling well. I just want to make sure she is fine. Go ahead and set up the conference room for the meeting for me." Michael paused and looked at his friend. "Clarence, thank you. I now I don't say it enough. I really appreciate you just being here." Clarence smiled at his friend, and rushed off to do his bidding.

The healer reported to the Alpha's private chamber and examined Brandy, he found nothing wrong, but took some blood work for testing. Brandy was due to come into season soon, and he explained that some women felt fatigue right before. Relieved that Brandy was not in danger, Michael thanked the healer and dismissed him. As soon as he left, he pulled her close. "I can't lose you, girl. I won't survive it." He whispered. 

Brandy held him and whispered, "I'm not going anywhere."

Ten o'clock came quickly, and the Alpha pair were awaiting the arrival of their guest. Soon Thaddeus and Nina came to the conference room where they were joined by Miriam, Jebediah, and Hannah. This conversation was long overdue, so Michael invited he key members of the Daniel's family to join them. Michael was no longer nervous, just tired. He needed to do this. Today was the day all cards were placed on the table.

"Good morning, welcome. Please everyone, come in and sit. Nina, Thaddeus, I've called Javon and Elise and asked then to join us in this meeting by teleconference. Your children will be with him. I want to thank you for giving me a chance to explain, and I hope that at the end, we can once again renew our friendship. Before we begin, does anyone need anything to drink?" Michael asked.

No one wanted anything, so Michael started the meeting. He called Javon, and Nina smiled when her current Alpha appeared on screen. She saw that everyone in her family was in his offices, her children and their spouses. Jebediah was amazed at how much BJ looked like Benson, Celia was simply beautiful as was Kyra. Hanna and Miriam cried and made their grandbabies promise to come visit. Soon, the teas stopped and Michael had to explain.

"Nina, I am sorry. I apologize to you, and your children. I made a bad call, and nothing can change that. I want to explain what influenced me. It won't excuse my actions, but maybe you will understand.

He faced the monitor. "Celia, BJ, and Kyra, you have every right to despise me, and I thank you for being willing to just listen." Michael faced his guest and the monitor. Then he told the tail of a young alpha, and the undue influence of an older sibling, and a decision that was always regretted.

"Nina, Isaac was my oldest brother. He was supposed to become Alpha, but Dad changed his mind and made me Alpha instead. When he passed, to keep Isaac from leading a revolt, I named him head beta. I never thought he'd betray me the way that he did. I was not unaware of his proclivity towards cruelty. I knew he had issues, but I didn't, no, I could not believe he would hurt another Were. As you know, I considered myself close to my brother. I never thought he'd mislead me. And for the first fifteen years of my rule, he was my main supporter." Michael exhaled. 

He recalled his brother's brand of humor was always slightly off color. However, he grew darker the day he met the love of his life. Brandy feared his brother and although she never spoke vile of him, she avoided situations where he attended. Michael asked her why she never attended gatherings with his family, and she told him that Isaac made her nervous. He talked to Isaac, and he accused his mate of being a troublemaker. He said she was trying to come between them. Michael held Brandy's hand tightly, "Then I met Brandy. She didn't like him. He said she was jealous of our bond, and needing to trust my brother, I believed him. No one raised a complaint against him. No one ever said he mistreated them. The few times an issue would be raised, he had supporters that gave him their full support." Michael exhaled. 

Everyone was silent. Brandy wanted to hold him and tell him he could stop. But she knew he needed to finish. Michael looked at Brandy and drew strength from her. "I remember your mating ceremony. It was the sweetest joining and everyone was so happy for you. I gave you my blessing and my mate and I went home. It was then that Isaac decided to target you. For the first decade, he just watched. When Benson asked to change status, and I granted it. He came into Isaac's radar. Benson was a hard worker, and easily moved from Omega to theta. Isaac had no problem with him being Theta, but he was jealous. Too many wolves respected both you and your mate. He felt slighted because no one really respected him. I was considering making Benson a lower-level Beta and that was when Isaac targeted him. I knew he was testing him, but I had no idea how cruel his taunts had become. My brother intimidated my pack. Everyone feared him. He convinced them that I would agree with whatever penalty he ordered. He was right. For years I trusted him. The night Benson died devastated me. Clarence came and got me and I rushed to the stones. All I saw was my brother in a duel and Benson down, and then I saw you in the center, and Isaac declared that you interfered. I questioned you and you refused to answer. So I ordered you to come to my home." Michael fought back the tears. He refused to cry in front of these wolves. He was a man and a man had to be strong, tough. 




Time for Truth Ch. 03



He decided to just finish. "I met with Isaac and he demanded that I order your death because that was the law. If a female interfered in a duel and someone died, she was to be put down. My hands were tied and then the betas brought you in. I couldn't do it. I could not issue the order. You pleaded for banishment, and I agreed. Brandy begged me to wait a few days and not decide right then, but Isaac was watching and I needed to appear strong. So I issued the decree and you and the children left. I have no excuses. I have no other words to explain. All I can say is I'm sorry, and ask that you all please forgive me." 

Brandy then spoke in her spouse's defense "Before you judge him, you have to understand that Isaac manipulated him. He was constantly tearing him down and making him feel like a failure. He messed up, and he has carried this guilt for decades." She faced the stoned-faced wolves that were now glaring at her husband. They were angry, and they had the right to be angry. But she would not sit here and allow them to attack him.

Michael touched her shoulder, "It's alright baby. They have a right to be angry." He whispered.

"You said that Isaac is gone. How did he die?" Thaddeus demanded. 

Michael took a breath, "I killed him. After Nina left and the pack revolted, he challenged me for my post as Alpha. That was his plan all along. I had no choice. He planned to kill me and he even had supporters to help him reach his goal. Right before the duel, I began to feel weak. Brandy was worried. She started preparing my meals. I felt better. Isaac found out and was livid. He had one of the cooks tampering with my meals to weaken me. I cancelled our first duel and he tried to declare himself alpha by default claiming I refused to face him. Several of my Betas stood against him and as soon as my strength returned I faced him at the stones. He cheated, but Clarence knew he would. He warned me and his action saved my life. At one point he pinned me, and that's when he confessed to destroying my pack. He bragged about Benson's death and how easily it was to have his way. I was stunned, because I knew something was wrong in that situation. He continued his taunts and I realized that my brother was insane. He had to be put down, and I fought even harder. In the end, I pinned him and delivered the fatal blow. Within the hour of his death, I ordered Clarence and several betas to find you and the pups. They tracked you to Jael territory.

I contacted Jael and Alpha Jael said you and the children refused to stay. He sent several scouts after you, but a band of vampires destroyed all four of you. Clarence didn't believe him and he went there to their compound. They took him to the town, and gave him your belongings. They even took him to the last place you and the children were alive. I honestly thought you perished. Coming back to tell your families is a time I will never forget. You and your children died because I failed as Alpha. I revisited the old laws and with my betas, we eradicated them." Michael concluded. 

No one spoke. They had so many questions, but were not sure where to start. Jebediah glared at the Alpha. "Alpha Michael, I have to forgive you. I have known you since you were a pup. I saw how he treated you, and I was glad when Alpha Vernon named you Alpha. You are right. You let us down, all of us. Forgiveness won't come easy. You see you sent our family out into the wilderness and for decades we thought them dead. The fact that they survived is a moot point. The thing is, I know you speak the truth. Your brother was evil, and I'm glad he's dead." Miriam touched his shoulder to stop him, but Jebediah was furious. Michael knew he needed to calm down so he issued an Alpha command. Two of the Betas escorted him out, and Miriam went with him. 

Back in Texas, no one spoke. Nina knew she had to diffuse this situation, so she stood and took command. "Alpha Michael and Madam Brandy, you have no idea what we went through during that time. But despite everything, we survived. The vampires did attack, but they didn't attack me. They attacked my blood sister." Nina smiled and sent a message. Nicki, I need you. Within seconds a beautiful vampire appeared in the Alpha's office. She was glorious and beautiful and deadly. The wolves were ready to attack, and Nicki wanted them too. This pack hurt Nina. They sent her and three small children out on their own. She swore to herself if she ever got the chance, they'd pay.

"Nina, I am here. Is this cretin, your first Alpha?" She asked glaring at Michael. Brandy moved to stand between the bloodsucker and her mate. No one would hurt Michael.

"Nicki, it's alright. I was explaining to Alpha Michael and everyone what happened to us after we left." Nina explained. Her friend was too upset to listen and cooler heads needed to prevail. 

"Can we take a short break, please?" she asked. Javon and Michael agreed, and everyone went to check on Jebediah. Nicki, don't hurt them. They are part of Nina's family. he sent. Yes Alpha, she replied begrudgingly.

In Texas, Javon felt for Michael. He understood, because as a young Alpha he too made bad decisions. Michael had grown and from what he learned, over the years, Michael Thane was one of the few Alphas that was trustworthy.

After a few minutes everyone returned, and Nina explained her relationship with Nicki. As she talked, Hanna listened and she became upset. "If what you say is true. You could have come to see me Nina. Alpha Michael didn't have to know. How could you go and let us think." she began to sob, Miriam moved to her as she turned away from Nina. Nina gasped and at her rejection.. Her children reacted instantly. Only an Alpha command from Javon kept them stationed. Miriam and her daughter grabbed Hannah and soothed her. Hannah's wolf was close to the surface, and they didn't need her to shift. The older woman had gone through so much, but Nina had to have a reason. They knew she was banned and could not contact the pack, so Miriam had to believe that her respect for the hierarchy of the pack was her driving decision.

"She couldn't say anything. If she came here there would have been questions. The vampires would have destroyed us. So to keep us safe, she had to keep our secret," Nicki explained. Her few words absolved Nina from blame. Hannah stopped and listened. 

"Nina went through hell but she's strong. I don't want to tell her story, because she will tell you. Just know that she missed you, and each day was pure torture." Nicki looked at her friend. 

Nina shook her head, and Nicki nodded. Hannah turned to her daughter and embraced her. "Baby, I'm sorry. I'm glad you are home. I know you would have called if you could." 

"Momma, I'm sorry." Nina sobbed. 

Thaddeus had to hold his mate. "Baby, I've got you."

Michael issued an Alpha command that everyone sit. Nicki and Nina stood before the group together. Nina had to tell her story.

In Texas, the Loess wolves waited. Her children knew their mother was strong, and she would be alright. They just hated to see their family so torn, hurting. Nina, looked at the screen at her children, then she looked at Thaddeus, He gave her strength. He was her rock and she would get through this. 

She had to admit to herself that her grandson was right. This wound was allowed to fester and needed to be eradicated. Today, she would expose it and let the true healing begin. Nina then spoke. She had to share what she encountered. So she began with to speak as she was enveloped with loads of love from her family and friends. She smiled and because she needed to reassure her kids, Nina sent each one a big mental hug. 

She then faced Alpha Michael and Brandy and share her travels. "We headed east. I caught a bus and rode. For the first few months, I took odd jobs. But eventually I landed in Jael territory. I asked for asylum, and they allowed us to stay. We lived there for a few months until I had no choice but leave."

She closed her eyes as she recalled those dark times. At the time, she had to survive, but looking back she shivered. I was a miracle that she and her children did. She looked down, recalling the fear of her daughter being snatched. Hannah gasped, as she could now feel everything her daughter was feeling. Nina continued, "One of the men snatched Celia. She was barely twelve years old, a baby. He was found and killed, but I realized my children were not safe there. Alpha Jael dismissed the situation and things for them everything returned to normal. Nothing for me was normal and I had to go. One of the betas decided we would mate. Alpha Jael gave him permission whether I agreed to or not. He was cruel, abusive, and I would not have survived being mated to him. So one night when they when then pack ran, I took my kids and we escaped. The wolves that were there helped, and the guard turned away and allowed us passage from their gates. I made it to the city where we hid in abandoned buildings for a few weeks. Then I had to find work." Nina shuddered as she recalled being used by the storeowner. Nina looked at her kids, and knew that was one story she would not share.

You have nothing to be ashamed of.  Thaddeus sent. He was proud and if he ever got the chance, those who used her would pay. With his encouragement, Nina lifted her head, and faced her lover, her mate. She finished the story. "I did what I had to do to survive. One night, some men were raping a young girl. I had to stop them. In the fight, one of the vampires stabbed me. It was a fatal blew. Nicki fed me her blood and saved my life. She ingested my blood when she closed my wound. We bonded and now we are sisters." Nina paused.

"I arrived in Texas over 30 years ago. I requested and gained asylum from the Loess pack. I never really joined them because I focused on taking care of my pups. Even when we were invited to pack gatherings, at first I refused, but then I started going because it wasn't fair to segregate my kids. Javon and Elise accepted us, and when Kyra graduated they asked me to join. Honestly, I was just going to relocate and live out my solitary existence, and then Thaddeus came into my life. He refused to let me give up." She smiled at her mate, tears glistening. "He helped me and gave me purpose, reason. Over the years Nicki and I stayed in touch and she encouraged me to connect with them and eventually I did. The Alphas had no idea that I had a blood bond with a vampire and they learned the truth at Kyra's graduation a few decades ago. I don't need to talk about what else happened you know of our packs affiliation with the vampires. Just now that Nicki is my family, too. Accept me, then accept all of my family." Nina concluded.

Michael was stunned. He knew she glossed over a lot. Brandy, I... Michael was speechless.

 Love, it will be alright. Brandy sent.

"Javon, Elise we need to break for lunch. Let's meet back here in two hours." Michael added and Javon agreed. The two groups took a break. The Thane wolves were awed by Nina's bravery, Hannah owed the vampire a debt of gratitude. She had already accepted Nicki as her new daughter. This brave vampire's quick actions saved her daughter. And from the emotions Nina tried to hide, she did so much more.

********

Marisol was sitting with the young ones. She wished she could be in the conference, but Papa asked her to help with the young ones. Soon the adults came out and the kids rushed to their parents. "Mama, Papa?" Marisol queried.

"Love, we are ok. Let's eat lunch." Julianne answered. The small group reported to the Alpha's private dining room. The group sat in silence. They all heard the stories, but hearing it today revealed more than their mother ever shared with them. Even though she never said the words, every wolf in that room were now aware of the abuses the she wolf suffered to protect her kids. 

Marisol watched her family and she was at a loss. Daddy just stared, just like Aunt Kyra and Aunt Celia. She wanted to know what happened in that room. Marisol, we will tell you later. A lot happened, and we need time to process it. Love, just remember, we are here for you. We are always here.  BJ sent to his oldest daughter. Then all the adults sent the children a reassuring mental hug. Javon hugged everyone in the room. He made sure to sent a giant hug to his brother and sister in California.

The adults ate in silence and the kids wondered what was going on. Finally Javon spoke, "I want to go after that pack. I want to destroy them, but it will only lead to war. We don't want war." He explained. Blaine nodded, and accepted Javon' s words.

As much as he wanted to end the Jael Pack, he understood outright aggression would lead to more death and the pack didn't need that. "We are family. You heard what Nina said. We stand together and we stand strong." Blaine reminded his brother. Emotions were high and the family was still reeling from the information the Thane alpha shared. 

At Thane, Michael began apologizing. He begged for forgiveness in causing such atrocities to occur. His heart was broken, spirit crushed. It was Nina and Nicki that were able to help him gain perspective. "Alpha Thane, have you heard of my husband, Gernick Ivanov?" Nicki asked.

Michael had heard of Gernick, but he never met him. "Well, he blamed himself for everything that went wrong in his family. And he was wrong. Just like in your case someone else decided to play God. His stepmother hurt so many, just because she hated him. Your brother hated you. I can see that and I am not a pack member. He wanted you to be destroyed. Nina and Benson were just tools at his disposal." She looked him directly in the eyes.

"You stopped him, right. And from what Nina explained, you tried to find them?" Nicki paused and Michael answered.

"I didn't do enough. I should have realized that he was unstable much sooner," he mumbled.

"Well you did your best. As much as I want to hate you, I cannot. Nina, my sister, doesn't hate you either, nor does she blame you. Quite honestly, she never did." Nina interjected.

"Nicki's right. I broke the law and deserved to be punished. You showed mercy, because you had the right to have me out down. You gave me and my kids a fighting chance and we survived. I was angry for years. But I understand and life has taught me to let it go. Isaac is gone, and I have my family back. You did good Alpha. Stop beating yourself up. She declared. Brandy hugged her mate and smiled at the two women. Thank you. she sent. She was sure they didn't hear her, but the two smiled back and she knew somehow they did.

********

Lunch ended and the groups returned. The mood was much lighter. The two groups set up visits for the rest of Nina's family, and the Thane Alphas even scheduled for Nina's family to visit Loess Falls. Soon, Theo and Jasmine had enough and wanted to see Momma. They ran into the conference room. They were not alone, Jonathan, Javier and the rest of the brood joined them. 

Hannah was awed by her beautiful family and could not wait for them to visit. Only one child did not barge in. Julianne saw her standing just outside the door, and called. Soon Marisol came in and the Thane pack greeted her enthusiastically as well. She relaxed and spent time talking with her other family.

Benny and the boys arrived and joined in the fray. Marisol lit up when her cousin Benny appeared. She smiled, and the Thane members were awed by her beauty. Soon the conference ended, and everyone went back to their responsibilities. Marisol was glad to relinquish the young ones, and Rosita took off with her friends. The boys spent the last few minutes begging Aunt Nicki to let Jonathan stay overnight at the compound. She laughed and told them to ask Gernick. The boys cheered. Uncle Gernick never said no.

Marisol checked her phone and she had two missed messages from Timothy. He was coming to Texas with a group from his church in three weeks. He wanted to know if they could spend time together. Marisol smiled, and texted back that she'd let him know. Now she had to convince Papa, Javon, and even Gustavo to let her go on a date. She smiled and went on with her duties.

********

Wow, a heavy chapter, I know. But isn't that the way of life. Things happen and at some point you have to deal with it. Well, I hope you enjoyed the chapter. In the next one, we will fast forward. So please, just read, relax, and enjoy. Please don't forget to comment and vote. IR2R



Time for Truth Ch. 04



Welcome back,

In this chapter, we will fast forward a bit. Not very far, but enough to move the story along. I hope you stick with me and enjoy. 

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 04



Ares liked Zoe. When he first arrived, she went out of her way to welcome him. To Ares, she was lovely. His first month away from home was hard, and she'd often do little things. Small things that gave him a reason to smile. "I'll give you a head start." He told her and she shifted and took off. Ares was right behind her. Meanwhile, Kevin and Benny were talking with to other pack members that were around their age. Benny had so many new cousins and he was learning so many new things.

Phillip joined them and both he and Kevin could tell that he was nervous. "Hey guys, ready to see Alpha Javon?" he asked. Neither Benny, nor Kevin answered. So Phillip turned his attention to the Thane pack members. They were upset with him as well. Phillip felt ostracized, but he knew it was his fault. Then one of the guys took a deep breath and included him in their conversation. Soon everyone relaxed enough that they enjoyed just being together,

Benny, Kevin, Phillip, the Alpha is here. Lars sent. Benny froze, as did Kevin and Phillip. Alone, in a private cove, Ares was nearing completion as he rode the lovely Zoe. She groaned as his cock filled her completely. She'd been with several males, but none satisfied her like this young Alpha Son. Her pussy gripped his cock, and Ares could not recall when anyone felt better. 

She moaned for him, moaned his name. He wanted to brand her, ruin her for any other males, but she was not his mate, so that would not happen. Feeling his knot grow, Ares was about to shove it inside when his father's voice called him. Son, I will be at the compound shortly. I can't wait to see you. Ares came hard.

He realized his father was waiting for a reply and hastily sent, Yes sir. 

Javon chuckled, Son, I want to meet this girl.he sent.

Michael arrived back at Thane with Javon. Brandy met the Loess Falls Alpha and welcomed him. He accepted her gracious welcome as the Omegas gathered his things and took them to his room. He'd already contacted Ares and could sense his pack members as they approached. They were apprehensive. But he didn't blame them. However, he wanted a full report and he would deal with Phillip directly.

The boys and Lars and Terse entered the Alpha home and Javon was happy to see them. They saw Vince and were overjoyed. The five boys were always close and he could see that the separation affected his younger son more than he let on. As the boys greeted each other his son arrived. He was accompanied by a lovely young woman. Javon suspected that she was a bit more than a friend.

He could see the guilt in Ares eyes. He knew he blamed himself for Phillips problem, but he would make sure he knew that he was not at fault. Soon, Brandy got everyone to quiet down and they sat down to talk.

Vince asked them about school. And the boys regaled him with tales of their adventures. Phillip was quiet, eyes downcast. He knew he was in serious trouble. He would have to go home now. Alpha Javon would not let him stay. He'd fucked up, and he had no one to blame but himself. 

Soon it was time for dinner. The group joined the pack. Benny and the guys introduced Vince to the others and they welcomed him into the fold. Soon the younger ones finished their meal and wanted to run. Alpha Michael dismissed them, but Lars and Terse waited to see if Javon needed them. He smiled and reminded them that here he was a guess, not Alpha.

As the younger ones left, Javon noticed that Phillip did not move. He decided to talk with him and see where he was mentally. He thanked Michael and Brandy and told them he wanted to talk with his young pack member. Javon approached Phillip. 

"Talk to me, Phillip. What is going on?" he asked. Phillip could not answer. He honestly had no excuse. 

"Come. Let's sit." Javon stated. Phillip knew he could not bull-shit his Alpha. Javon practically raised him and could read him like a book. Phillip explained his actions to his Alpha. Javon listened. They talked for over an hour and Javon thanked the young man for being honest. He'd talk with Terse and Lars in the morning, and he'd discuss the situation with Michael the next day as well. On Monday, Javon scheduled a meeting with Phillip's advisor at the university. Once he had all of the facts, he'd decide if Phillip would stay in California or return to Texas.

He smiled and reminded Phillip that despite his mistakes, he was pack and they loved him. They would not abandon him. Then young man visibly relaxed. He hugged his Alpha, and Javon bid him good night. He retired to his room, where he contacted his mate. She was his soothing balm. Love, he is a good kid. You will do what's best. I believe in you, Elise reminded her mate. 

Michael lay beside his mate, caressing her and talking to his son. He'd have a son, and he prayed that he would be a good father. Brandy chuckled and showered her mate with love. Michael would be a wonderful father. She never had a single doubt. 





Time for Truth Ch. 05



Welcome back,

In this chapter, Mari turns eighteen. Everyone comes home for her party. Phillip talks with his dad and makes a discovery. 

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 05



Clarence, where are you? Michael sent as an eerie feeling enveloped him. Something was not right. He felt something shift inside his Beta. 

Michael, I am fine. I need to do this. They need to answer, Michael. Had I asked permission, you would have refused. So I'm not asking. Clarence replied.

Clarence, they might hurt you. You could be killed. I'm ordering you to come back home. No Were could disobey an order from their Alpha, to do so would automatically destroy the alpha bond, leaving them without a pack, or rogue. Michael knew this, and that's why he issued it. Clarence would never willingly break their bond.

Alpha, please. Let me do this. Clarence pleaded.

I want them to pay too, but we don't need war Clarence. If they hurt you, I'm declaring war. With Benny and the others here, you know the vampires will get involved and everyone loses. So for me, just this once, please stand down. Michael commanded.

Fine, I'll be back in two days. Clarence agreed.

"Baby, what's wrong?" Brandy asked as she waddled into his office. The sight of his mate, so heavy with their son, made Michael smile. 

"It's nothing. I don't want you worrying, OK." He answered kissing her temple.

Brandy wrapped her arms around him. She inhaled his scent, and it grounded her. She was worried. The boys had gone home for the weekend, but she felt something was about to happen. "Talk to me Michael. Tell me what is wrong." She pleaded.

Michael had never lied to her and he wouldn't now, "Clarence wants to confront Jael. I ordered him home." He exhaled. "They need to pay Brandy. What they did to Nina cannot go unpunished." 

"Baby, it happened decades ago. I know you are angry, and part of you blames yourself. But if you declare war on Jael, who loses?" Brandy sked. "We are happy. We will have our son in a few weeks. Don't make me have to raise him without his father. He needs his Uncle Clarence around too."

Michael started to speak, but Brandy wasn't finished, "The vampires are watching them. Remember what Javon said. If they harm another person, human or wolf, they will destroy them." Brandy reminded him.

Michael closed his eyes. He knew what she said was true, but he also understood what Clarence said. If they continued to say nothing it was as if they were saying the Jael Pack was right, and they were not. However, he would stand down for now. He would wait. 





Time for Truth Ch. 05



The betas arrived and Knox and Zeke sat. BJ walked in and for some reason he noticed Zeke. He'd heard of the Gaines beta, but now his mind was telling him to be wary of him. Not being one to back away, BJ made his way to the Gaines betas. Knox stood to greet him, but BJ was focused on one man. 

Something about this guy bothered him. "Um, Blaine, the Gaines are our guest. They don't have to work tonight, right?" he asked. Blaine was nervous. BJ was one of his closest friends. He knew his friend would go ballistic at the thought of any male even looking at his daughter.

"BJ, Javon has given them permission to work the party. So, despite how you feel, he stays." Blaine explained.

Zeke remained silent as he faced his father for the first time. He knew BJ Daniels was overprotective, and he knew that he had to prove to this man that Marisol was the only thing in his world. That he'd die for her. Dropping his eyes, Zeke submitted to the other male. He wanted to earn the respect of Marisol's parents, and would do anything he could to do so. He met both when they visited Wildwood, and they both seemed to be reasonable people. They were often polite, and he never had any real issues with them. Julianne was often more friendly and easy going. He wondered if she'd changed when his interest in her daughter was revealed.

"BJ, look. Go home and dress. The party starts in an hour. Relax, I've got this." Blaine assured him. BJ looked at Zeke once more. Something about this guy bothered him. But he nodded, and told Blaine, he'd be back. Zeke actually sighed when he left. Blaine heard him and spoke. "Javon told me who you are. BJ is like a brother to me, and Marisol is my niece. Tonight is for her. Keep yourself in check." He warned.

Zeke answered, "Yes sir." He didn't challenge Blaine, or even make demands. 

Blaine was impressed. He stepped back. "If you keep your head cool, then tonight should go off without a hitch. Look, I know this is nerve racking. You seem like a nice guy, Zeke. When he learns who you really are, be ready." Blaine advised.

Zeke nodded. Then the men reported to their stations to make sure everything was in place.

Marisol dressed for the party and Julianne wanted to see. She walked out and showed her Mom the set. Julianne was amazed sat her beauty. The dress left no doubt that her little girl was now a woman. They heard BJ drive up and Marisol started to go to her room. Jules stopped her. "Baby, let him see the dress now, that way he can have his reaction and get himself under control before the party."

Marisol froze as her father entered. BJ hugged and kissed his wife and then he noticed a beautiful brunette standing nearby. He turned and was stunned to see that the lovely woman was none other than his baby girl. She was wearing an outfit that was entirely too sexy. He opened his mouth to forbid her to wear it when Jules stopped him. BJ, she is an adult now. This is her night. Don't you dare ruin it for her.

He turned to his mate, "Jules, there will be males there." He explained. There was no way any man would gawk at his baby, that beta, Zeke would be there. Something was off with that guy. He would not let him see her dressed so provocatively. BJ opened his mouth to forbid her from wearing the dress. Before he could speak, BJ, don't you dare.

Momma, come on. Who called you? This is... BJ started to reply when Nina interrupted. 

 I saw you and Blaine ruin Celia's party and poor Kyra almost cancelled hers. I know you are trying to protect her, but son you have to let go a little. Nina reminded him. Celia called her earlier and she had spoken with Julianne. She knew her son was overprotective, and it was understandable. She witnessed the family years earlier when the children suffered and their parents sacrificed everything they had to assure them that they were safe. BJ was a true beta, and he felt it was his calling to keep his family safe. Letting go of his daughter would not be easy, but she needed to grow. He had to let her.

Marisol watched her father. She knew he was talking with someone mentally. She waited for him to order her to change. He didn't. BJ looked deep into her dark eyes and he knew, despite how he felt she needed this. This was her night. "Marisol, you look amazing." He hugged her. "I know you are eighteen now, but you are still my baby. Even when you are one hundred eighteen, you will always be my baby girl."

Marisol hugged her father and thanked him. BJ headed to shower and Jules offered to help with her makeup. Soon BJ, Julianne, Rosa, Javier, and the twins traveled to the community center. Marisol and Desda would make an entrance, and the wanted to be s[resent to receive them

Soon everyone arrived at the community center. The kids were dancing to the latest renditions of popular music. BJ was silent as he sat in the front of the catered party and waited. Soon, the birthday girls and their arrival was announced. Everyone stood as the two women entered. They were stunning; Desda wore a red and burgundy ensemble of lace and leather. Marisol entered wearing navy, royal blue, and black. Zeke looked up as she entered and his wolf howled, Marisol heard him and their eyes locked. His message was clear, and she finally knew. He was her mate.

The music began, and Marisol was temporarily frozen. Her eyes locked on one security officer who was just as entranced as she. Zeke Abraham is our mate? she asked her other half.  Yes,  her wolf screamed in glee. Girl, it took you long enough. Now, let's go get him. 

Zeke's heart pounded. He could see that she recognized him. She was his. He stood to go to her when Knox stopped him. "Zeke, we are working. Remember what her uncle said earlier. Don't cause a scene."

Zeke nodded. His friend was right; he was here to work. However, somehow tonight, he would spend a moment alone with his woman. Zeke's mind hummed. She knew him. He worked as the party swelled around him. He glanced back toward the center of the crowd once more to see a male kissing his woman. His wolf prowled. 

"Beta, you are working." a strong voice reminded him. Blaine stayed close to Zeke's and Knox's station because knowing Marisol was his mate would be hard on him. Blaine suspected that she would go all out tonight and he suspected that Zeke would react.

"Yes sir." He growled in reply. 

Blaine sighed, Poor guy he thought. "Look Zeke, take a moment and get yourself under control. I'll cover for you." Blaine offered. Zeke nodded and headed to the break room.

Javon, I had Zeke to leave out. Ask Lakota or Levin to check on him. Blaine sent his brother. Javon beckoned Levin and shared Blaine's concerned. Levin was concerned and he quickly went in the back to talk with Zeke.

"Zeke, are you alright?" Levin asked. He knew this had to be hard on the young beta. He knew what Lakota and Reina went through when they pursued both him and Margaret. He was certain that it had to be torture to watch your mate interact with other men.

Zeke could not lie to his alpha. "Her wolf recognized me, Alpha. I saw her. She knows who I am. I won't cause a scene. I just need a moment. But she knows who I am." He explained.

Levin started to speak when they were interrupted. "Levin, is everything alright?" Thaddeus asked. If the Gaines beta was unwell, he'd take him home. 

"Thaddeus, Zeke is fine. He just needed a moment." Levin explained.

Thaddeus nodded and the two left Zeke alone for a moment. Zeke stood to return to his post, but when he opened the door to leave, he gasped. Her scent captivated him. He could not contain the grin that spread across his face.

"You're my mate?" Marisol stated glaring at the gorgeous male before her, her heart pounding. He was so handsome, and he was hers. "Explain." 

Zeke smiled, and pulled her into the room. Both of his strong hands circled her waist. He pulled her close, moved his lips close to hers, and whispered, "Happy Birthday, my love." He kissed her and her wolf howled. Slowly her arms encircled his neck and within seconds, she returned his kiss enthusiastically.





Time for Truth Ch. 06



Welcome back,

In the last chapter, Mari turned eighteen and discovered her mate. In this chapter, Javon and Thaddeus talk with BJ. But fate has twist and turns that no one expects. Someone new arrives on the scene.

Happy reading. IR2R

*****

Fireworks exploded deep inside Zeke as he feasted upon the lips of his lover. When she capitulated, his heart sang. He wanted more. He wanted to lift her and mold his body into her frame. But, he had to pull back. 

Ending the kiss was sheer torture, but had to be done. "You have no idea how long I have wanted to just kiss you like this." He whispered.

Marisol didn't respond because she was trying to remember how to breathe. Her heart was racing and she was annoyed that he stopped kissing her.

Zeke grinned, and she stared at him opened mouth. Slowly, he let go and she stepped back, but she wanted to be back in his embrace.

"Wait, when? How?" she asked. She knew that every Were had a mate. She knew she'd find her mate one day, but she never thought it would be the one guy she never thought she stood a chance with.

Zeke chuckled. She was simply adorable. "Over two years now." She looked surprised, "I know shocked me too. After all you didn't even see me. So I had to make you know me. I teased you. I'd annoy you to break your calm façade. It never happened. You were always so proper, so composed. You fascinated me. No one knew how I felt until Alpha Levin figured it out on your last visit, the other Alphas were clueless as well."

Marisol walked across the room; she started to speak then she remembered her party. Her father would become worried if he lost sight of her. Zeke smiled, "Marisol, you look amazing. This dress is, Wow!" he added admiring her body. Marisol blushed. She was pleased that he liked her dress. 

"I'm glad you like it." Marisol whispered. She actually blushed because she bought this dress with him in mind. 

"I wanted to kick the ass of every boy that talked to you. I want you to dress like this only for me." He teased.

Marisol was speechless. Zeke Abraham is mine. her wolf chanted over and over again. She blushed and was suddenly self-conscious about her outfit. She was confused. A part of her was excited and happy, yet another part was apprehensive. How is poppa going to react to this? she wondered.

Zeke could see the concern on her face. He decided to try and alleviate her concerns. "Marisol, we have time. You have college and I will wait until you are ready. I know that your Dad might not react well to this, so if you want to keep it secret..." Her eyes flew to his. He was willing to remain secret to protect her from having to deal with her father. 

She smiled. "Zeke, I do need time. Thank you for understanding." She whispered.

"Hey, birthday girl, you need to get back." He suggested. "Besides, I'm supposed to be working. I'll walk you back out." They went back into the community center. BJ had just realized Marisol was missing when she entered the room with Zeke. He noticed how the beta had his hand placed possessively on his daughter's waist. His posture was that of a man with his woman. He also noticed how close Marisol stood to the beta, smiling and not pushing him away.Hell no! he thought, as he stood to approach them.

"BJ, what's wrong?" Kyra asked. She too saw her niece and her mate reenter the room. 

"I have to rescue my daughter. That guy might try something." BJ explained right before Celia blocked him.

"No you don't. You will not embarrass that girl." Celia told her brother standing between him and the walk space, effectively blocking him from approaching his daughter and her beau.. "You need to calm down. She is beautiful and men will notice her. BJ, you have to let her grow up."

"She is a baby." BJ insisted. "That guy is older. He can take advantage of her. I will not stand here and let some guy do anything to my daughter." He insisted, drawing attention to the three of them. Marisol saw that her aunts were talking with her father and knew he was upset.

"Zeke, what time are you all leaving tomorrow?" she asked.

"We'll leave after lunch." He replied. 

Marisol smiled. "I'll come to your apartment later. If I can't make it, we can talk in the morning, ok?" she suggested.

Zeke wanted to kiss her once more, but he noticed that people were looking. Particularly her father was looking and he was barely containing himself. He wouldn't ruin her night, so he smiled and said "Let me get back to my post. See you later sweetness."

Marisol stepped away from him and took some deep breathes. She then returned to her party. 

"Marisol, what happened with tall, blond, and gorgeous?" Desda asked. You were gone for a while and I was just wondering. Look one question, can he kiss?" she asked.

Marisol blushed, "He is a great kisser." She answered cheekily. The girls laughed. By now, BJ had managed to get away from his sisters and walked over.

"Marisol, are you alright? I saw the Beta bring you back in. Did he try..." he asked. If that guy tried anything with is baby.

"Daddy, Zeke was upset and I wanted to see if he was OK. He was a perfect gentleman," she fudged. She wasn't ready to tell her father the truth that Zeke Abraham was her mate. He was the one man she was destined to spend her life with."

"OK, well my lovely young lady. How about a dance with your old man? " BJ asked. 

Marisol smiled, "Of course Poppa." Soon they were joined on the dance floor by Desda and her father. The DJ took that moment to play an rendition of Stevie Wonder's "Isn't She Lovely." BJ held his daughter close as he recalled meeting her for the first time fourteen years ago. He remembered how the frightened four year old grasped his hand as they loaded her into the ambulance with her brother and sister. He closed his eyes as he relived the hellish wait for her and then her brother and sister to go through surgery. She was so small, so fragile. 

He remembered social services coming to take them and Alpha Javon stepping in. She was his baby from the moment he laid eyes on her and she'd be his baby until he could breathe no more..

"Poppa, you can let go now. The song is over." Marisol whispered. She was slightly embarrassed because her Dad wasn't letting go. 

BJ laughed, "Guess I have to let go in more ways than one, right?" he teased. Both grinned. 

"Daddy, I maybe eighteen now, but I will still count on you to take care of me." Marisol replied, bringing a big grin to her father's face. Zeke watched BJ dance with his daughter, and his respect for him grew. He knew he could never force her to choose. This man loved her unconditionally. He smiled, for he knew that he'd be the same way when they had a daughter.

Finally, he let go and looked at his daughter. She was not a baby anymore. He had to accept it. He hugged her once more and whispered. "I love you, Mari. Go on and enjoy your night. We'll see you when you get home." 

Marisol returned her father's embrace. Soon the DJ played an upbeat song and everyone flooded the dance floor. Marisol laughed and joined her friends. BJ stood on the side and watched. He was proud of her. She was amazing. She had overcome so much in her young life, and now she was an adult. In two months she'd be going to Louisiana for school, and from the look of things, she'd find more than an education in Louisiana. He then looked over at the Gaines Beta. He was at his post, clearly doing his job. 

There was something about that guy. He knew he was interested in his daughter. However, that wasn't what concerned him. He had never seen Marisol so unguarded before tonight. When she walked in with the young man holding her, her face and body language were both serene, peaceful. She was not nervous, jittery, or even slightly stressed. She was relaxed for once. In fact that the only time she smiled was with the beta. BJ had to face the truth; his baby was interested in a male. That was a big deal to him, but he was okay with it. It was the interest that the male showed in his daughter. For some reason, he kept thinking back to when he first laid eyes on Jules. She was the most beautiful girl he'd ever seen. The way the beta watched Marisol reminded him of how besotted he was with his mate.

He gasped as he recognized, The Gaines beta was his daughter's mate. He started to rant, but then he saw him watching her once again. The look of sheer adoration on the man's face stopped him in his tracks. Jules walked over and circled her arms around his waist. "Baby, she's an adult now. We raised her well and now we have to let her be free." She whispered.

BJ's wolf calmed down at the soothing tone of his mate's voice. His wolf accepted this. All he ever wanted was for his kids to be safe and happy. As a male were, he knew a man would die to protect what was his. He saw how the young man watched his daughter. Who was he to deny her a chance at happiness? Finally he admitted to himself that Marisol was an adult now and he had to let her go. This man was his daughter's mate. Everyone else had to have figured it out because he then realized that they all tiptoed around him. Even the Alphas walked on egg shells around him. What did they think would happen?

He chuckled. His actions were legendary. He didn't allow guys near his sisters, only the men they eventually mated with. He guarded all five his children tenaciously, and now it was time to let the oldest one go. He'd accept her mate, but he had to pass his Daddy test first. BJ caught Zeke's eye and raised his glass. Zeke returned the gesture, and BJ smiled. Getting to know his son would be fun.

At this point, Julianne was horny and needed some alone time with her mate. "BJ, let's go home and let Marisol enjoy her party." She suggested.

BJ smiled and kissed his mate. Soon they headed home. Once they arrived, they realized for the first time in months they were alone.

"Um, Mr. Daniels, Mrs. Daniels is hot. She needs to be cooled off. Do you think you can help?" Julianne whispered in his ear. 

"I'll get you a cold glass of water. Sit and I'll bring it," BJ suggested.

How clueless can he be? Julianne fumed. I know what to do.she surmised. She stood and unfastened her gown. Waiting for her clueless mate to return, she released the catch just as her mate walked into the room. 

As BJ returned to the front where Julianne was waiting, he was instantly aroused at the sight of his mate dropping her gown and standing before him in the skimpiest lingerie he'd seen in a while. He didn't need a second hint. He may have started out clueless, but he caught on quickly.

Within seconds he manage to remove every stitch of clothing they had on, and then he lay on the couch with her. He kissed his mate as he caressed her body. Julianne moaned. It had been so long, and they needed this. "BJ, hurry," she moaned.

"All in good time, my sweet. We have hours: no kids and no interruptions," his whispered. "Tonight, we will both see stars." 

"Well, love. Then by all means, get busy." Julianne commanded. BJ laughed and for the next few hours, he took great pleasure in bring his wife to new heights.

Meanwhile, Marisol's party was ending and everyone was leaving. 

Desda left with Kevin. Aria and Phillip left together. Benny came to her and offered to walk her home. But he really wanted to spend time with, Nene, a young woman from the pack. Marisol didn't want to leave right away. She wanted to see Zeke. Soon, Blaine came and offered her a ride home. She tried to come up with an excuse when Celia spoke and suggested that they go on home and let Marisol spend time with her friends. 

Marisol thanked her Aunt as Zeke walked over to them. Celia met his eyes and smiled. "Get her home at a decent hour, OK. It will earn bonus points with her dad." she teased. 

Zeke smiled and thanked her. Celia and Blaine left, leaving the two of them alone. They both stood together silent. Her heart raced, and his heart pounded. She couldn't think of a thing to say. Zeke ever the jokester had to tease her."Hey, babe, what was that dance called? Show me that dance move you invented." 

"What? I would have you know, I am a really good dancer." Marisol insisted.

"Oh really, I bet I can dance better." Zeke insisted. 

"Oh really! Is that a challenge Mr. Abraham? Don't let this shy girl act fool you, or you are setting yourself up for disappointment." Marisol warned laughing. She was just happy to be alone with him. He was playful, silly, and made her laugh. Then she stumbled and he caught her. She was hot and wet instantly. Her desire filled the small pace and Zeke had to force himself not to let his own desire overtake him. However, he could kiss her once more. So he pulled her close and he did. Zeke realized that she was tired.

So he changed tactics."Come on, let's go to my apartment for a while. We can talk." He suggested. Marisol agreed, and held his hand as they walked to the apartment he was sharing with his friend.

They arrived back at the small apartment he shared with Knox. Knox was wiped. He greeted his friend and his guest and made himself scarce. "Hey Mari, happy birthday! You looked amazing tonight." He added giving her a light hug. Zeke growled, and Knox let go. He then teased his friend, "Calm down, man. I know she's yours." He chuckled and bid them both a good night. He finally went into his bedroom leaving them alone. Zeke lead Marisol to his sofa and she sat as he made a cool drink for the two of them. He was still wearing his uniform, so he was uncomfortable, but he didn't want to leave her alone for a second to change. 

"Look, Zeke. Why don't you change clothes. I know that uniform is not comfortable. I can wait here." Marisol suggested. 

Zeke smiled, "I'll be right back." He rushed to his room to change. Five minutes later he returned wearing a comfortable pair of sweats and a t-shirt. 

Marisol smiled. The man was good looking and he knew it. 

"Sorry, I took so long." Zeke apologized as he reenter the room.

The two talked and learned quite a bit about each other. He learned that she and her siblings were adopted and she learned that he was the middle child in a group of five. Marisol thought about her reoccurring nightmare. She wanted to tell him, but not yet. She pulled back, and he knew she wasn't telling him everything. Zeke loved this girl and he was so proud to be her mate. Then Marisol turned serious. "I need to go home. I'll see you tomorrow, OK." 

Zeke smiled and realized it was almost three in the morning. They had been together for hours. "I'll walk you home." They left and walked back to her home hand in hand. As they approached her front door. Zeke pulled her close and they shared a kiss.

"Sweet dreams, Marisol." He whispered. 

"You too." Marisol replied. Then the lights popped on and BJ opened the door. "Zeke, Marisol, hello."

"Good morning, sir." Zeke greeted. "I 'm sorry I lost track of time."

BJ nodded, "That's fine. She's home now. We'll see you at breakfast."

"Yes sir, good night." Then he left.

"Well sweetheart, did you have fun?" BJ asked hugging his daughter. 

"Poppa, it was wonderful." She answered recalling her time with Zeke she couldn't wait to see him the next day.

"Good, I'm glad. Now go to bed." he ordered. Marisol laughed and bid her father good night.

*****

Marisol wanted to see Zeke. They were leaving at two and she'd see him before they left, but she wanted time alone with him. So early the next morning, she decided to go for a run. While she was out she could stop by and see if he was willing to take a run with her so early. As Marisol got up to leave, she heard her parents moving about. She smiled because the way her parents cared for one another was exactly what she wanted in her future. Zeke would be a part of her future, now. As she sat smiling, BJ joined her. It had been a while since he'd talked with her and after last night he felt that the needed to touch base. Besides he wouldn't have time later today, because he and Rosita were going fishing. 

BJ smiled as he recalled the reaction of his son and baby brother. When Javier and Theo learned he was taking Rosita fishing, both boys quickly volunteered to go. They argued that Rosita wouldn't like it because she'd rather be with her girlfriends. BJ refused both boys, but he promised to spend time with them over the weekend. Theo informed him that Jonathan was coming too. He laughed; his brother and the young vampire were still inseparable. They shared a blood bond, and that made them brothers. He often wondered if his son, Javier, would grow jealous of the closeness between Theo and Jonathan Ivanov, but he never did. As a matter of fact, if he didn't know any better, he would think that all three boys had become blood brothers. 

He smiled and then thought of his niece, Nickie Amerie. Nickie Amerie looked just like her mother. She was tall like her father, his best friend, Blaine, but her face was the mirror image of a young Celia. She was the same age as the boys, but she didn't play with them as much now. As a thirteen year old girl, hanging out with her boy cousins wasn't as much fun as it used to be. 

Marisol looked up at her father and smiled. "Morning beautiful. You don't mind if your old man runs with you today, do you?" he asked. 

Marisol smiled, "Morning Poppa, of course not, but I'm fast remember. I hope you can keep up." She teased. Dressed in contemporary running gear, they took off. Some mornings, Marisol would shift, but today she decided to stay in human form. Besides, although nudity was not an issue for Weres, she was hoping to see her mate. She knew if she had a chance to run with him this morning, that shifting form might be a problem. Besides with Daddy joining her, she knew being dressed was the right choice. 

The two took off. BJ loved it. It had been so long since he just ran, and being with his oldest daughter made it even more special. Soon he realized that they were going in a different direction. Then he recognized the apartment where the Gaines betas were staying. They didn't stop, but kept going. However, Zeke saw her run by with her father, and not being a guy to shy away, he joined them. 

"You guys mind if I join?" he asked as he too fell into pace. He was already up and dressed. He was actually going to run for a while because he was so wired. BJ grumbled, but Marisol smiled. Zeke took off on the other side of her father and the three spent the next while enjoying the predawn morning. Soon it was time to return, and Zeke begged off and returned to his apartment, as BJ and Marisol returned home. 

BJ had to say something. "Mari, I know you like that guy. I've tried to scare him off and either he's very brave or very stupid, but he seems to like you. Just be careful OK. And if he does anything you don't like. I'm kicking his ass." 

Marisol laughed and whispered, "He's really nice daddy. You'll see."

"Um hmmm," He answered. He still didn't like it. But Jules talked to him all night and he had to admit, that she was right. Besides, she reminded him of the escapades Celia told her about when he was young. BJ cringed at the memory.

Soon they returned home, and the family decided to go to the community hall for breakfast. Marisol helped serve, and everyone greeted each other happily. Benny could not help but tease his niece about her party. He told her she was the reason he and his friends would have to fight all day. They had to beat up the guys that ogled her body.

"Stop it, Benny. You aren't fighting anyone. I saw how you were watching Nene last night. I bet as soon as you finish breakfast, you're headed out to find her. What about Kevin? He was so into Desda, that I was left wondering if he remembered how to breath. And Phillip was the worse. I thought Alpha Javon was going to take his head off with the way he flirted with Aria." She laughed. "Besides, we need to catch up before you leave later. You guys fly back tonight, right?" she asked.




Time for Truth Ch. 06



Benny nodded. "Yes, you know what. Ask Uncle BJ if you can visit next weekend? Grandma Hannah would love to see you, and now that you are eighteen, you can hang out with us. I'll look out for you." He promised. Marisol smiled. She'd only visited California once and it was with her parents. She wasn't sure about coming out there alone.

"Aria can come with you?" Benny suggested. 

Mari smiled brightly. "You talk Poppa and Alpha Javon into it and I'll come." Then she noticed the line behind him."Move, I'm serving." she admonished. Benny laughed and joined his family. Blaine and Celia talked with Benny and told them they loved him and were so proud of him. They were proud of him. Nickie joined Theo and Javier. Javier was planning something. He was always planning something. Jonathan was them. The younger kids were with their parents. 

Soon breakfast ended and everyone was leaving for their duties. Alpha Madam Elise wanted to speak with Marisol. Marisol, come to my office. she sent. 

Yes ma'am. She answered and quickly finished cleaning.

An hour later, she joined the Alpha Madam in her office. Elise loved the young woman that entered her office. Marisol was as precious to her as her own children.

"So, I know you've met your mate. Are you alright? Do you have any questions?" she asked. 

Marisol blushed, "No not right now. I mean... I just... He is so handsome and I can't believe he's mine." 

Elise just listened. She allowed Marisol time to talk. She liked what she saw. Marisol was so shy. She kept her thoughts and emotions bottled inside. But since last night, Marisol was bubbling with excitement and glee. She kept talking about Zeke and how cute he was. She wanted to dance with him, but he was working and she didn't want to cause problems for him. She couldn't wait to talk with him before he went back to Wildwood.

Elise smiled. "We like him, Marisol. He seems like a good man. However, we still want you to go to college and pursue your dreams, ok. You will mate with him when it's right. Understand."

Marisol smiled. "Yes, Madam Elise. I plan to earn my degree. He said he'd wait and we don't have to hurry." She quickly explained. Elise smiled. Marisol spoke more about this guy than she had in a long time. She hoped Zeke Abraham realized how lucky he was. Marisol looked at Elise and smiled. She loved her pack members. Madam Elise always so welcoming of her and she truly admired this woman. She was so wise and she was right. They had time. There was no need to hurry.

Soon someone knocked and Margaret and Reina entered. They both greeted Marisol and told her that Zeke was the lucky one. The three women talked with Marisol trying to make sure she was coping with this new situation. So far, she seemed fine. All four women sat and chatted. Soon, they regaled stories of meeting their mates. Margaret recalled failing for both her first husband, Oscar and now Lakota, her mate. Marisol loved listening to their stories. Then Elise smiled and began to speak. 

Elise rarely told of how she and Javon met centuries ago, but Marisol was amazed to learn that the Alpha Madam didn't really want to be mated to Javon. She considered him weak. Unlike other males at that time, he was not out waging wars or scavenging for goods. He was content with who he was and what he had. 

Elise started her story and laughed because when she realized he was her mate, she was furious. True, he was the alpha son, but unlike the other males, he was passive, always thinking. All of her sisters found their mates in men who were more outgoing, much more brawny, tough guys. Why did she end up with a brainy guy? But soon she learned that beneath his calm exterior beat the heart of a true warrior. Not just any warrior, but one that was cunning and cleaver.

She also got to know the man. And when she fell, she fell hard and completely. At first, she tried to deny her attraction to him, but found herself watching him often. She feigned disinterest in him, and Javon pursued her diligently. One day, she deliberately flirted with another male just to see if he would fight for her. It was silly and wrong, but Javon was always so peaceful that she wondered if he had any fire inside him at all. Unfortunately for her, he'd had enough and he walked away. Elise was floored, so she went after him. She never expected him to be the one to walk away from her. No male ever walked away. Her heart pounded as she soon realized that she was about to lose the best thing in her life. Javon Loess was hers and she'd be a fool to let him go. She would not, could not live without him.

Elsie concluded her story, "I shared this story to show you Marisol that finding your mate is a wonderful thing. You are so much smarter than I was. Hold on to him, and love him with all of your being. Don't try to change him, and don't let him change you. Finish school, and he'll still be there, OK" she added giving her a tight squeeze.

Margaret and Reina sat opened mouth and speechless; Marisol was just as enthralled. But they knew it ended well, the two were now mated with five children. Elise smiled, and realized she missed her mate. She sent him a mental hug and he smiled and hugged her back. He wondered what the women were up to, but right now he had to focus on BJ. 

In Javon's office, the three Alphas met. They decided that they needed to address BJ. He seemed fine after leaving the party and this morning, but they wanted to be certain that he had no plans to confront Zeke.

BJ, come by my office. Javon sent. Lakota and Levin were with him. Thaddeus stopped by and joined the men. BJ was his son and he was determined to stand with him. Even though, he was too worried about him overreacting to Marisol's possible mate.

I'm on my way. he answered. He suspected they wanted to talk to him about the Gaines beta. But in all honesty, he was fine. 

Five minutes later, BJ entered Javon's office. He was not surprised the see the Gaines alphas there.

No one spoke, and BJ broke the silence. "Let me guess, this is about the Gaines beta, Zeke, right?" he asked.

Javon answered, "Yes, you may not be aware of this but we believe that..."

"He is Marisol's mate." BJ concluded. Silence, no one said a word. Everyone was tense waiting for BJ to blow. Everyone knew he was protective of his children, and Marisol was the one he shielded the most.

A minute passed, and BJ had not exploded. So Javon continued, "BJ, do you plan to interfere? I must ask you to allow them a chance to develop a relationship. He is her mate and to force her to deny him would be detrimental to her." 

BJ looked at all three men and realized they were afraid. He took a deep breath. "I don't like the thought of some guy touching my baby. It makes me want to commit a crime, but he makes her smile. She came home this morning and the shield was gone from her eyes. As her father, I have tried for fourteen years to take away that shield, and this guy did it in one night. This morning, we went for a run, and he joined us. He isn't afraid and I couldn't intimidate him. 

He also is extremely respectful, and he loves her. Out of everything I have ever wanted for my children, I want them safe and loved most of all. Now don't get me wrong, he has to pass my daddy test. I mean, if he plans to be with her forever, then he has to be able to take care of her, right?" he asked. 

Levin spoke, "You are absolutely right BJ. But Lakota and I want you to know that Zeke is a great guy, if he wasn't we would have intervened." The two alphas shared a look.

"What?" BJ and Javon demanded.

"Well," Lakota replied. "Zeke has known who she was for over two years. He never made any advances towards her, nor has he pressured her in anyway." 

Levin smiled, "Um he did like annoying her. That's how we figured it out. We actually banned him from speaking to her for the next four years, and he agreed. He kept his word to us. When Margaret mentioned you or the kids, we'd see him listening for any word on Marisol. He became ill, stopped eating, stopped interacting with other, because he needed her. So we had him to come here."

BJ was silent. This man knew who his mate was and said nothing for two years. Thaddeus cleared his throat. "He seems like worthy young man. I know how hard it is to know your mate and she has no clue of who you are." He added.

BJ took a deep breath. "She is staying at your compound while she goes to school, right?" he asked. 

Lakota answered. "BJ, she is my granddaughter. I will defend her with everything I have. Do not worry. Marisol will be safe."

"I am trusting you two with my most precious gift. Keep her safe." He smiled, "Now that I know her mate is there also, I can worry less." BJ stood,. "Gentlemen, I hate to run, but I have a date with my second daughter and some bait. Oh, and if you see any boys hanging around, well..." he added as he left the office.

All four men were stunned. Yesterday, this guy was a powder keg about to explode and today, he was calm and happy. Only one thing could have caused this reaction, and they all said it in unison, "Julianne."

*****

Zeke spent the morning helping clear up the community center, before he and Knox prepped for the drive home. He missed her. He had not seen her since breakfast and he had stayed away long enough. He and Knox were ordered to pack the car for their return trip. He was loading the bags, and hoped they at least got to speak alone before he left. He wanted to make sure she had his number so they could at least talk.

He took a short break and walked over to the dining hall hoping to find her. He walked into her uncles, Blaine and Malcolm. Both men greeted him and decided to offer their support. 

"Hey Zeke, are you on break?" Malcolm asked.

"Hi Malcolm, Blaine. Yes, a short one. What's up?" he spoke. 

"Mari is meeting with Madam Elise. She will be a while, but we wanted to talk with you before you left. Marisol is special. She is our oldest niece and the most sensitive." Blaine explained. "BJ is my best friend. He is extremely protective of her, so expect to get your ass handed to you. The thing is, we like you Zeke. You've only been here a couple of days, but she's different around you. She's happy." Blaine stopped. Malcolm spoke. 

"We watched you last night. Your eyes never left her, but you didn't crowd her either." Malcolm exhaled. "I liked that." Zeke started to speak when Blaine spoke once more.

"The thing is, she is the first of our children to find her ..." Blaine paused. He had to ask before continuing. "Is Marisol your mate?" he asked.

Zeke didn't hesitate, "Yes, she is mine. She's my other half." He answered smiling.

Blaine and Malcolm recognized a man in love and they laughed. "Well, we're here if you need to talk. Oh and man, welcome to the club. We both had to get past BJ before we could date his sisters. You, my friend, plan to take away his little girl. Get ready to be tested." Blaine offered. Zeke noticed the time and begged off. He and Knox had to pack the car. He didn't get to see Marisol, but he did get to meet some of her family. That counted for something at least. He thought of Blaine's words. He said it jokingly, but he feared it was an honest to goodness forewarning.

He turned to walked back and help Knox. When Blaine called out, "She's helping out at the daycare around lunch. You can see her right before you guys leave." Zeke smiled and waved thanking the other man for the information.

Soon, the women finished talking and then they had to finish packing for the drive home. Marisol left and reported to the daycare to help with the kids. Margaret smiled as she left. Her granddaughter was a beautiful young woman and she was looking forward to her moving to Louisiana for school. Reina was excited also. She knew the pack loved when their friends from Loess Falls visited.

*****

Marisol arrived at the daycare where all of the kids were working on something. Some of the older kids were there helping out. Rosita was with her friends and the twins were helping Ava and Amie. She was working with a toddler when she looked up and saw Zeke walking over. Calling someone to take the baby, she walked out to meet him.

She hugged him, so unexpectedly, that Zeke wrapped his arms tight and pulled her close. He kissed her lightly, drawing snickers from the twins and their friends. "Hey, I missed speaking to you this morning." She whispered.

Zeke exhaled. It took every ounce of his restraint not to kiss her the way he really wanted too. But he didn't want to make her uncomfortable, and he wasn't sure if Daddy was around. Marisol grasped his hand and he squeezed her hand back in return. As if on cue, BJ walked up and cleared his throat. "Um, Zeke, don't you have work?" he asked.

Zeke smiled, "Yes sir. I just wanted to say hi to Mari." He turned to Mari. "I was hoping we could grab lunch together." Mari smiled and BJ spoke. 

"I have plans to go fishing and my fishing buddy is here." He declared.

Rosita laughed, "I'm here, Papa. Come on, let's go." She added excited. BJ smiled and hugged his little girl, he then placed her fishing hat on her head and gave her a fisherman's vest that matched his. She and Marisol giggled. Ava and Amie wanted to go, but BJ hugged each girl and told them next time. The two young vampires smiled and went back to playing. 

Rosita and BJ left with her telling her dad, that she was not baiting all of the hooks. BJ laughed and soon they were off to the lake.

Marisol laughed and finished told her coworkers she was taking a break. She and Zeke went to the dining hall and picked up sandwiches and drinks. Marisol grabbed a checkered table cloth for them to eat on. They wanted to be alone, but didn't have a lot of time. So Marisol had him to walk to the lake. She spread out the table cloth and they sat down for a quick picnic lunch. Marisol watched him eat. Man, even the way he chews his food is sexy! she thought. He's such a great kisser. I wish we had more time. Zeke felt her watching him, so he stopped. He smiled and she visibly stopped breathing. "Breath girl, I know I'm so handsome that I take your breath away already. You don't have to prove it."

"You are an egotistical jerk." She laughed. "Are you ready to go back?" she asked trying to change the conversation.

"No, I want to stay here with you." He whispered. Marisol gasped; his answer was simply perfect."

"I don't want you to go, either." Marisol replied shyly.

Zeke took her hand and kissed it. "Let me see your phone." He held out his. She took it. "Now put your number in my phone and I'm putting my number in your phone. That way we can at least call and talk." Zeke explained.

Do you have a faceworld account?" Marisol asked. "We can talk on the computer sometimes. I'd like that."

"No, I don't but I'll set up one, OK. Call me anytime and text me whenever you need to, Ok." Zeke explained.

Marisol smiled, "As long as you promise to call me too." She added. They took a moment to program in the numbers and then hesitated to return each other's phone.

Eventually they switched back, and Zeke had a burning question, "Can I really kiss you? Not a small peck, but a real kiss."

Marisol nodded, and he waited, "Yes" she finally whispered. She sat up and leaned forward, 

"No, not like that, like this." Zeke laid Marisol back on the blanket. He covered her body with his, and then he gently kissed her lips. He nipped her bottom lip until she opened and allowed him access. Slowly he kissed her massaging her tongue with his. The weight of his body pinning her down caused a fire to burn deep inside the young woman. As he kissed her, she openly explored his back, as she rubbed him, soon she felt hot, unconsciously spreading her legs allowing him access to the part of her that needed something more. 

Unable to resist her womanly sirens, Zeke moved between her thighs pressing his hardness against her body. He was as hard as he had ever been in his life. He grinds against her and her jeans, Marisol felt his budge pressing against the apex of her thighs. Her pussy was throbbing, and she needed more. Soon, he began to nibble her neck, as she moaned begging for more. In this moment, he would give her everything she asked for just to taste her sweetness once more. But someone laughed, and he realized that were not really alone. 

He broke the kiss, and moved, Marisol reached for him wanting desperately to continue, but he told her someone else was out there. She sat up, and soon she heard her little sister laughing as their father wrestled with a fish that he caught. 

"Zeke, I really wish you didn't have to go." She stated once more. Zeke leaned forward and kissed her on the lips and said, "I'll be back to see you as often as I can, OK." He promised. Soon their time was up, and they returned to the compound. He held her hand during the whole walk back. Soon it was time for them to leave. Marisol went to the Alpha home to say bye to her family and thank them once again for a fantastic birthday. Zeke and Knox stood beside the car waiting on their alphas. 

Not caring that it was improper, Marisol walked over to her mate and kissed him before everyone. Zeke held her and whispered, "I love you, Marisol. I'll call you when I get home."

Marisol looked deep into his gorgeous eyes and whispered, "I love you too, Zeke. I'll be waiting for your call." She kissed him once more. Everyone watched in silence. Julianne was secretly impressed. Her little girl had game. Poor Zeke Abraham never stood a chance. 

Soon the car was loaded and everyone climbed inside. Knox was driving first and Zeke watched Marisol until she was no longer in sight. Knox opened the partition in the limo to see if the alohas needed to stop or anything they didn't so he closed it. He finally spoke to his friend. 

"Zeke, man you are one lucky bastard. That girl is gone over you, and from the looks of things you are just as gone for her. I watched the two of you. You look good together. I'm happy for you man. If I can ever help, let me know." He added finally.

Zeke smiled, "I want to come back and spend time with her. Can you cover for me for at least a weekend, and I'll take whatever days you want me to cover for you?" He asked.

Knox smiled, "I'm already there. Besides, now I can have all of the ladies to myself. Zeke Abraham is no more." He laughed.

Zeke laughed with his friend and was content in the knowledge that Knox was exactly right.

*****

Phillip had to decide when to tell his parents. He wasn't ready to tell his family yet. He'd tell them later. He decided to talk with Alpha Michael first. As he pondered, someone interrupted his thoughts.

"What are thinking about?" Aria asked as she approached Phillip. Phillip was a great guy and she had fun dancing and joking with him at the party. They flirted, but nothing would come of it. Besides he was heading back to California tonight with her brother.

Phillip smiled, Aria Loess was every guys dream. Tall, beautiful, and smart, she was the absolutely gorgeous. Last night at the party, they talked for a while and spent the evening together. Last year, if someone had told him he'd be hanging out with the alpha daughter, he would have laughed. But now he had the greatest experience of his young life. Aria was funny and smart. He could see why her father, brother, and cousin banned him from pursing her. She wasn't his mate, but he knew when she met her mate he'd be a lucky man. He just looked at her. Unlike most of the girls he'd met, she was not vain and hung up on her beauty. Feeling a sense of glumness, Phillip wished he'd asked her out just once. He knew Ares and Benny would beat him senseless, but it would have been worth it. He looked at her and smiled.

"Nothing, just going home. I was thinking about classes. I need to find a tutor to help me prepare for finals. I guess I'll find a guy because a pretty girl would distract me." He added. Aria punched him in the shoulder and Phillip yelped. His sister, Candace, laughed as she joined them. Aria relayed what he said and she punched him too.




Time for Truth Ch. 06



Soon the three just talked, but both girls felt he was hiding something. Then Aria realized something significant. He didn't say he was going back to school. He said he was going home. Candace left and Aria faced him. "Phillip what did you mean when you said you were going home tonight? Are you relocating to California?" she asked.

Startled that she figured it out, Phillip looked at her. His eyes were wide and she could tell he was nervous. "Yes, Thane is home for me now. Look, Aria, only you and Alpha Javon know. Please don't say anything. I'm not ready to tell everyone yet."

Aria sighed. I'll miss him. she thought. Then she hugged her friend and agreed to keep quiet for now. "Hey, you're not gone yet. Besides, we can travel, so it's not like we'll never see you again, right?" Phillip smiled and nodded. Since contacting the pack initially and having Nina reintegrated with Thane, Thane and Loess were now connected. He wasn't losing his family, just expanding. He'd tell father tonight and when they came home for Marisol's graduation in a few weeks, he'd tell everyone else. "Come on, let's go. Your dad warned me about you and I like having a butt to sit on." He teased. Soon they laughed and rushed off to find everyone else.

*****

At Thane, Clarence returned home and everything seemed normal. Javon contacted Michael and told him that the boys would fly back tonight. Michael could tell that something was bothering the other alpha so he waited. Finally Javon spoke.

"I was there the day he was born. Leo and Remy announced his birth and I never saw a father that was prouder. I was the third person to hold him. As he grew, he was a handful. When the boys got together, you knew they were going to cause trouble. Phillip was the most rambunctious and outgoing." Javon laughed. "Then around thirteen they discovered girls. He teased every girl in this compound and was whipped every time, but he never gave up. He became quite the little Lothario, our Phillip." Michael laughed. "He is a member of Thane now. I have to let him go. But Michael, he will always be considered ours. Take care of him and if you ever need anything from us, just call." He added finally.

Michael exhaled. "Javon, I am honored to accept Phillip into my pack. You all are family. He's not leaving, just moving to a different address. Right?" he added. Javon took a deep breath and Michael paused. He knew the other man was near tears if he wasn't crying already. 

"Their flight leaves at nine tonight." Javon informed the Thane alpha. Then he took another deep breath. "Michael, just take care of them, OK." 

"Javon, I promise you. They will be fine." He assured his new friend. Michael wasn't sure exactly what to say to alleviate Javon's fears. The boys had lived with them for months now, but it was the situation with Phillip that caused this concern. No Alpha liked losing a pack member. He had lost a few over the years by marriage and others that wanted to be independent. So, he knew exactly how he felt. It was especially hard on Javon because his pack members never left. Most people joined when they mated with a member of his pack. Like Nina and her children, rogue wolves often asylum with his family and were adopted into the fold.

They talked a bit more and Michael said everything he could to alleviate his friend's concern. Eventually they hung up and Michael thought for a moment. He honestly knew how Javon felt. After the incident with Benson, his brother targeted more pack members. Instead of putting up with Isaac's abuse, several families left. It hurt when a pack member left. He'd do everything he could to help ease Phillip's transition. Love, I need you he sent. Within seconds, Brandy waddled into his office and hugged him. She felt a sense of melancholy through their mate bond. His son kicked as her protruding belly was pressed between them. Michael laughed and sent  Calm down, MJ. I was just giving Momma a hug. He sent his son a shaft of love.

"Brandy, Phillip is now a member of Thane." He stated. Brandy was not surprised, she was already aware as an alpha bond formed between her and the young male as well. Michael continued, "Javon is having a hard time. I assured him that Phillip would be fine."

Brandy smiled. "Love, all four boys are already like our own kids. We're just adding an existing member. I'm sure Javon will be ok." She exhaled. "I have an appointment with the healers tomorrow. I want you to come with me." Michael smiled. "OK, love, I'll be ready when you go." 

Soon, Clarence knocked, and entered, He smiled broadly when he saw his two alphas together. Brandy glowed and he was just as excited about the new pup as if it were his son about to be born. "Alpha, Madam Alpha, I wanted to know what time will the boys be returning. I need to arrange transport." This time the boys were returning without their chaperones. Javon had given Lars and Terse permission to stay in Texas. He trusted the boys to function more as adults now. 

Michael sighed and relayed Javon's message. Clarence nodded and then focused on Brandy. "He's taking care of the two of you, right?" he asked, grinning at his friend. Michael laughed and Brandy assured Clarence that she and MJ were fine.

Clarence laughed. "Well Alpha, I think you two will have your hands full. You will probably have the most spoiled 'son in the pack. It has been ages since we had a little one here. The Carter twins are almost ten now." He grinned; the pack was so happy for their alphas. It was as if this was their baby as well. "Everyone will cater to him and you two will deal with the fail out. I, Uncle Clarence, will definitely indulge in spoiling him. Get ready. You need to have a second one soon after." He teased.

Not to be deterred, Brandy chimed in, "When will you stop procrastinating and mate? MJ will need playmates." She laughed at the look of star terror that spread across Clarence's face. He was not interested in finding a mate. The one woman he would have wanted was taken, and besides, he liked being single.

"Well, Madam Alpha, on that note, I'm out." He faced Michael once more. "I'll arrange pick up for the boys," he concluded. Then he left leaving the lovely couple alone. Brandy rubbed her back because it hurt. This happened more and more as her due date grew closer and closer. Michael was on full alert. But she assured him that it wasn't time yet. 

*****

In the meantime, right above the Mexico border in southern Texas, Geraldo Cortez answered an important call. He found them, and now he wanted to get to know his kids.

"She is eighteen now sir. She just became of age." The soldier reported to his employer. The wolf grinned. Here he was, barely thirty-seven years old, and he felt as if he'd done the impossible. For sixteen years, he sat behind bars in a Mexican prison wondering what happened to his mate and children. Now he had found his children. It was time to make his family whole once more. 

After sending Angel north with his children years ago, he worried. She was so young, and beautiful. But she was smart, and he knew she could take care of them. The first year after he was released, Geraldo worked and scraped everything he had together to find them. When he learned that Angel had been murdered, he was devastated, and demanded answers. At first he feared his children perished as well, but learned they survived. He was relieved. 

He had a new goal. He had to find his kids. Since his release from prison, Geraldo worked several jobs and he saved enough money to hire a private detective to track his family down. He worked long hours, slept in a shelter, and only ate two sometimes three times a week. Every cent he earned went to look for his children. 

The children were adopted and their adoption records were sealed. So that meant they could be anywhere. He was happy to learn that they were still in Texas. He would go there and see them as soon as he found them.

He was in southern Texas and was slowly working his way to Loess Falls. One day, he was on a landscaping job when his boss told him he had a call. He was a loner and wondered who could be calling. 

"Hello" he answered.

"Geraldo, hijo, por favor vienen a casa. Su padre está enfermo."  Geraldo, son, please come home. Your father is ill. A voice he recognized immediately. 

"Pena, Perdón. No puedo. Él nos echó."  Pena, I'm sorry. I can't. He kicked us out. Geraldo reminded his stepmother.

Pena would not let him refuse, and eventually he agreed to come back to Mexico. Not sure what to expect, Geraldo had was prepared for the worst. However, nothing could be worse than the last sixteen years of his life. As he entered the compound, he noticed the pack looked destitute. The pack which over twenty years before was full and vibrant was now shallow and its members not well.

Geraldo entered the alpha home, and his father hugged him. He was so thin, not at all like the strong man that banned them to their death. Someone lead him to his room and he unpacked. He looked around for a moment then Geraldo, Sr. knocked. He asked Geraldo to join them in his library. They needed to talk. 

He joined his father, eyeing Pena carefully. His father asked his forgiveness. His stepmother sat beside her husband and apologized as well. He wanted to rant at them, tell them he lost everything, but he was silent. He didn't need them anymore. He needed to see his children. 

It was at this time that his father asked that he become Alpha. Geraldo refused, because he was truly done with them. He just wanted to find his children. 

Then his father had one more request. He wanted his grandchildren and Angel to come home. It was then that Geraldo broke. His family was broken. Angel was gone, and his kids had new parents. He would find his children, and try to be a part of their lives. But as for his father and his pack, he was done. He, nor his children, would ever consider The Cortez-Alvarez Pack home. Geraldo, Sr. was hurt. He never thought his own flesh and blood would denounce him so resoundly. He had no choice but to accept his son's decree. Pena was hurt. How could Geraldo Jr. be so cruel to his father and deny him this final wish? Because of him, her children walked away and never came back. 

Geraldo Jr. was not done. For years these wounds festered and he had to let it out. He faced his parents, tears streaming down his cheeks. He was no longer a scared boy, but now a man. Sixteen years fighting for your life in prison forced you to grow up. And through it all, he thought of his mate and children and they helped pull him through. Now these two selfish, mean-spirited, hateful people felt sorry. They felt guilt; then they should. 

"We were kids father. We were still children. She had no one else but me." He took a deep breath. Geraldo was surprised that deep down he harbored such anger. "I don't understand how you could send us and two small children out into the world. You knew I was in trouble. You knew no one would help us. But you didn't care. I was in prison for years and you didn't lift a finger to help. If you were so concerned, then you would have at least helped Angel and the children. Maybe, she would have survived and I could have come home to them."

"Son, I will help you find her and the children. Let me call the Alphas in the North American region, I'm sure if she is there we will find her." His father promised.

"She's gone. She was killed in Texas. A man shot her and he killed her. My children were adopted. They have no idea of what happened to me, just that I abandoned them. So, Dad, I'm sorry is a little too late." Geraldo stood to leave when his father spoke once more.

"Geraldo, Jr., you are my son. Do not walk away from me." Geraldo senior demanded.

Geraldo kept walking and his father called out, "I'm ill. Please talk with me. Tell me how to right this wrong?" He pleaded.

Geraldo wanted to just go. This man out kicked him out of his home almost two decades ago. He wanted to destroy him and he did, but still, he was his father and deserved his respect. HE stopped and he faced the man he once loved more than he ever thought possible, but he grew to hate with every cell in his being. Now he looked at him and felt cold indifference. He no longer had respect for this man.

Geraldo was so young when he mated with Angel. He was barely of legal age and she was younger than that, but he loved her. The pack she belonged to was dying out and she was on her own. He met her when he stopped some male pack members from taking advantage of her. Being that he was the alpha's son, news spread quickly to avoid the skinny bitch. They became good friends and eventually fell in love. She needed a home and he could give her one. So at a young age, they mated. His father was furious, but the deed was done. Angel had a hard life and he foolishly believed that if they mated, his pack would welcome her. 

She moved in and he was immediately demoted from Beta to lower omega as punishment. A few months after they moved home, Marisol was born. He and Angel were terrified, but happy. She named their oldest daughter after his mother. This action angered his stepmother and they were ostracized even more. 

Next came Rosita. Geraldo sighed, because at this point, Angel was carrying their third child. They had no home. He approached a few neighboring packs, but they refused them asylum. He carried both girls and Angel just walked by his side. Marisol was two, and she grew hungry, they saw a small village and wandered there. An old woman let them in and gave them shelter for the night. She was a recluse and a member of the last pack that refused to help them. 

One day, Angel was hanging the wash for Tia Juanita when pack members saw her. They immediately reported to the Alpha who promptly called Juanita in. She was told that the interlopers had to go. She tried to explain that they were young, just children and the girl was carrying a pup. Aloha madam sympathized, she really did, but the alpha said they had to go. 

Angel knew what to expect, so she packed light for them. Geraldo returned. He'd caught two small rabbits for supper. "Wait, why are you packing?" he asked.

Angel sighed, "The alpha sent for Tia Juanita. We must go. We don't need to cause problem for her." Angel made the soup and waited. Juanita came home and looked at the young couple. These kids had no one, and she could not longer help them. She opened her mouth to speak. Geraldo stopped her, "We'll leave after supper. Thank you, Tia Juanita, for helping us as much as you have already. We will be fine." Marisol was barely two at the time and Rosita was still an infant. The baby started to cry, because she didn't want to leave. Angel pulled her daughter into her embrace and whispered, she calmed down and they went on their way.

At this point, he had nothing else to lose, so he took odd jobs. He hated it, but with what he earned, he could afford a small apartment for them to live in. One night, he was on the job for his new boss when they were swarmed by police. He ended up charged with several crimes and he knew he'd never see his family again. His boss told him to say nothing, and he'd try to get the police to let him go. 

Geraldo did exactly what he was told. The leader of the group, true to his word, told the police Geraldo was just a kid that was looking for work. He had nothing to do with anything. However, the prosecutor was out for blood, and he went for the maximum. All four men stated that the kid was innocent and their solidarity angered the judge. He gave all of the maximum sentences. Angel was devastated. Geraldo was also. Using what savings they had, Angel stayed in the apartment for two months. When the money ran out, they had to go. 

The man Geraldo worked for had outside connections. He called in a few favors and over two thousand dollars was placed in Angel's account. Being young, alone, and having to move was not new to her. However, she was always accosted by males. The men saw Angel and watched her. Even though she was pregnant, several men made advances on her. She was never rude to them and this made her more vulnerable. No one knew she was the mate of an Alpha son, but at this point it no longer mattered. Her pregnancy progressed and she needed to find someplace to have her child. One day Geraldo sent a letter. He told her of the money that was in the accounts. "Take it and go." he ordered. He wanted her to leave Mexico, go to America. The packs in America were more welcoming than the ones in Mexico. Angel took their savings and went. She crossed the border into Jael territory and that is where Javier was born. 

Geraldo spent the next sixteen years of his life in a Mexican jail. He was sentenced to serve life, but he didn't think he'd live that long. Every day, he had to fight with someone to survive. The first few years were the hardest, but soon word got that he was dangerous, and they left him alone. He didn't have any friends, and he knew Angel and the children were gone. He realized he'd never see Angel or their children again. He allowed himself one night to grieve, and that night he cried. He failed as a son, as a mate, as a father, and even as man. His family had to suffer because if his arrogance and stupidity. From that point on, he did not shed another tear. 

Not one to stay down for long, Geraldo decided to fight. He worked his way up to trustee, then earned a parole hearing. He did whatever he had to be freed. The Mexican officials took noticed and some questioned why he was sentenced so harshly. He was just a kid in the wrong place. A new judge reviewed his case and found it full of mistakes. Geraldo Javier Cortes should not have gone to prison. He was not carrying any drugs, no weapons, and even the leader of the cartel stated he had nothing to do with them, but an overzealous police force charged him anyway. Somehow, the judge was coerced into giving him a maximum sentence. The new judge reversed the order and several years later, Geraldo Cortez was free. His one and only goal was to find his mate and his children.

He knew they went to America, and that was where he headed. He arrived in America and within six months, he'd tracked his family to Texas. He learned that Angel had been murdered, and his kids had been adopted. He stopped. He looked at his parents. They stared back, Geraldo, Sr. actually looked proud. But his son was not finished.

"You tried to destroy me, take away the only thing I had left, and you did. I lost my Angel, my Marisol, and my Rosita. I have never seen my son. So father, you succeeded and you win, but don't gloat. I will find my children. That sir, I promise you." Geraldo Jr. stated finally and then he stood and walked out.

Geraldo Senior looked the door that slammed behind his son. This was his first born. Over the years, he and Pena had more children, but he would always love his first born a bit more. That is why he was so angry when he mated so young. He girl was beneath him, an omega and an orphan. He had greater plans for him than to be tied to a female that would hold him back. However, he stood up for her and took care of his family despite how he was treated. 

Geraldo, Sr. admitted to himself that he took things too far. It was his pride and foolishness that caused the pack to disintegrate into despair. The pack lost respect for him as Alpha when he banned Geraldo and Angel. Stronger pack members left leaving the frail and weak behind. Marauders came, and took even more. Finally, he was left as a shell of what he used to be. 

Geraldo, Sr. shook his head. He was trying to protect his son, not hurt him. He only wanted the best for him, and he thought that if he took away the title and the money, the girl would go. She stayed. He treated her abominably, and she never said a word. There were things he and Pena did to that girl, and he knew she never told his son. So knowing she wouldn't leave, they decided to make him send her away.




Time for Truth Ch. 06



He had to break him. He became crueler and crueler. Even when his siblings questioned him, he used their defense of him to punish him even more. His kids knew they were unfair and supported their older brother. Their support angered Pena, and she exacted punishment on Angel in the most sadistic ways. Soon the children learned to keep quiet. When they spoke, their brother and his wife were hurt even more. So to protect them, they stayed away. 

Geraldo, Sr, knew his son felt abandoned, but he still did not break. He even forced them out, banished them on a bogus charge, knowing he'd come home begging for asylum, but he did not. Time past and he was arrested. The country's government demanded a ransom, but he waited Geraldo to beg. He never did, so his son went to prison. He should have intervened, but issues arose within the pack. Members deserted them. His own children sought to join other packs. Soon everyone he cared about was gone, except Pena. 

By now she too realized the grave injustice she'd carried out. To say that he regretted banishing, would not be sufficient enough to describe the level of despair Alpha Cortez had sunk to. His son's depth of depression was his fault. He cost him his mate and children, and he knew he could not forgive him. Now his son had returned for a brief moment and then he walked away for a final time. Too much damage had been done. 

Pena knew he was broken now. "Pena, call our children and ask them to come home. What I did to Geraldo is unforgivable and I will pay for eternity. I know I'll never meet my grand children, but I pray he finds them. I pray he can be a better father than I was." He took one more breath. "I failed all of my children as a father, and I failed you as a mate. Love, I am so sorry."

No te preocupe mi corazón. Simplemente descansar.Don't worry, my heart. Just rest. Pena sent to her mate. He would leave the earth soon and she would soon follow. She refused to live without him by her side. 

A few days later, he died. Geraldo refused to go back for the funeral because the last time he walked away, he was truly done.

He remembered that Braden was on the phone. "Braden, can you take her picture?"

"Yes, I'll send it. But listen, they are members of the Loess Pack. This pack is a very close=knit group from what I can see. Their father is extremely protective, and from what I have seen, he will fight to keep them safe. You need to call the Alpha. I'll send the number, OK. Hold on. I'm sending her picture. I have pictures of the other two as well." He answered.

He sent it. Geraldo waited patiently for the picture to load, and then he cried. His little Marisol was the exact image of his Angel. Another messages followed, and he saw his Rosita, another replica of his lost love, and finally his son, his mirror image. A third message came through. It read, Javon Loess, pack Alpha 222-555-XXXX. Saving the number, Geraldo smiled. He had a flight to catch.

Geraldo looked at the images of his children once more. They were so happy and so beautiful. He felt a moment of apprehension, I might ruin their lives if I try to see them. Maybe I should stay away. He thought. Then he looked at the pictures in his phone once more. No, they are mine, mine and Angel's. I need to see them. He then arranged a flight to Houston. He'd contact the Loess Falls Alpha for permission to come to the compound, and then he'd make arrangements to finally see his children.

As soon as Braden hit send a third time, a strong pair of hands grabbed him. "Who are you and why are you taking pictures of those children?" a strong voice demanded. Braden was about to fight when he realized something. The man holding him was not a wolf, but vampire. He was in deep trouble. So he decided to play it smart and answer what ever questions the man asked.

So ends chapter 6. Chapter seven will be written. But I would love to hear your thoughts. Please vote and comment.



Time for Truth Ch. 07



Welcome back,

Braden is taken into custody by the vampires. They question him, and everyone is informed of Geraldo's presence, except the children. Benny meets a new friend at Thane. Ares has a revelation.

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 07



She looked away as the males argued. Bruce's friends were now silent and no longer participating in his cruel game. Saphirra remembered happier times. She recalled meeting the Texas wolves when they first arrived. After the initial shock of learning they were relatives, they were eagerly welcomed into the fold. She was working in a motorbike of one of the Thetas when Kevin approached her the first time. He asked for directions and she gladly pointed him in the right direction. He seemed surprised to realize she was a girl. The next day, Kevin came back and brought his friends to meet this girl that acted like a guy. All of the guys were nice, and her brother came out to see what was going on. He liked the guys, but sent them on their way. After the initial meeting, the guys were often polite, but visiting her was not a main priority. 

Saphirra was used to being forgotten. She wasn't very pretty. She wasn't book smart. Honestly, she barely earned her diploma. Alpha Michael at first balked at the idea of a female working in a garage. The mechanics were often dirty, worked odd hours, and most females were not interested in that type of work. Patch talked to Alpha Madam for his sister. Fixing things was something she was good at. Since she was a pup, he had her with him. Saphirra didn't want to be away from her brother and Patch took full responsibility for his kid sister. Much to their parents dismay, their little girl was a tomboy and she never grew out of it. Eventually, Alpha Michael agreed, but told them that if anything went wrong notify them. 

The Texas wolves were nice, but they didn't understand everything that went on here. Saphirra didn't want the attention, so she decided to diffuse the situation. "Benny, look it's alright. Bruce and the others they are just joking. Right guys?" Saphirra explained, trying to keep things from escalating. 

"Yea, man. We didn't mean... I mean we're sorry Saphirra." One guy apologized. "We were just messing with you." He explained. Bruce glared at his friend because he then realized he'd taken his teasing too far. She was hurt, and he could see it. 

"Saphirra, Benny" Bruce added taking a step back. "I was just messing with you. I mean we know you guys aren't gay. I just wanted..." he looked away, embarrassed. He knew he'd just blown any chance of getting this girl to even look at him. His friends were silent and he and Saphirra just looked at each other. She was so damn cute. When he saw her leave with Benny, he had to stop them from doing anything. But, they didn't deserve the stunt that he'd pulled. Saphirra had to truly forgive him. He'd make this up to her somehow. "Saphirra, I'm sorry." He whispered. 

Saphirra looked at Bruce, then she faced Benny. "Let's walk back. I have to help prep for tomorrow anyway." She suggested.

Benny didn't want to walk away, but he also didn't want to engage in an altercation with any members of this pack. This pack was a part of his family and he'd do whatever he had to maintain peace. Bruce looked at the couple before him, "Yea, Saphirra, Benny, sorry we ruined your night. Look, maybe we can hang out together sometime." He suggested. His friends didn't say anything and Bruce watched feeling perturbed as Saphirra walked away with Benny. She never wanted to walk anywhere with him.

As they walked away from the group, first Benny was silent. He thought about home. At home no one would be allowed to treat another pack member this way. Not that Loess Falls was perfect, but all of the members knew they were safe. That thought caused Benny to pause. Did they really make sure all of their pack members were safe? As he pondered, his father called. Son, what's wrong? Has something happened? Blaine asked.

Dad, I'm ok. I will call when I get back to the apartment. Benny sent. He wanted to talk with his Dad, but right now he had to make sure his companion was alright. From the way Bruce and his friends acted, this was not the first time they bothered this girl. Well it would end, because he would not allow it to continue. Saphirra was quiet. Too quiet.

"Saphirra, I know it's not my business, but you need to report those males. The Alphas need to be informed." He suggested.

Saphirra smiled, "They were just joking; they meant no harm." She excused their actions, but Benny didn't like it. Soon they arrived at her home, and he bid her good night with a light kiss to the temple. Saphirra's parents looked on and were awed. A kiss to the temple was symbolic, and to see the gentleness with which the junior beta treated their daughter pleased them.





Time for Truth Ch. 07



She turned to leave and Bruce caught her hand. She started to pull away, but he would not let go. "Saphirra, are you with Benny? I mean, I know you're friends, but are you a couple?" he asked hesitantly.

"No we're friends. Not that it's your business." Saphirra answered. 

Bruce smiled. He still had a chance to win her affections. He had to approach her differently. "Look, Saphirra. I know I always give you a hard time, but I really like you. I was hoping we could talk and maybe you could give me a chance. 

"Look, Bruce, I'm not sure if I believe you. Look your car is fixed. I'll see you at the shop in the morning." Saphirra answered. 

Bruce understood. He was extremely rude to her and Benny when he saw them together a few days ago. It angered him because he didn't like seeing her with another male. He had no idea how to get her attention and Benny had no trouble getting her to notice him. Bruce could admit that he was a bit jealous of the Loess wolves, but not envious. They were great guys, and in all honesty, he knew that his approach to Saphirra was all wrong.

He let her hand go, but not before asking one question. "Will you go out with me?" 

Saphirra started to refuse, because her wolf protested. This could be a joke. He might want to... her wolf spoke. Saphirra froze and Bruce could see the fear and doubt in her eyes. He immediately felt contrite, because he knew that he caused her to have this doubt. He realized that he'd gone too far. 

"Saphirra, listen. I'll let you pick the time and place. Let your brother know so he can check on you." Bruce offered. "If you would give me a chance, you'll see that I'm really not as horrible as you think." He concluded smiling. "Besides, if I do anything to disrespect you, you can report me to the Alphas." He concluded. 

Saphirra hesitated. She thought about Benny and she wondered what he would think. "Listen, Bruce. I don't know." She answered hesitantly. "I mean there are so many females that want you, how do I know this isn't a trick?" she asked. 

Bruce looked away. "I tell you what. Give me a chance. If I can show you that I have changed, will you let me treat you to a sundae one Saturday." He asked. "It will be during the day, and you can even bring your friend along." He added. 

Saphirra looked at him. He seemed sincere, but she wanted to talk with her friend first. "I'll let you know. I have to go now. Remember to bring your jeep in tomorrow for service." She reminded him then she got in her car and drove away. Bruce stood on the side if the road, staring in the direction in which she drove. 





Time for Truth Ch. 07



They returned to their bedroom. BJ refused to break, His kids would hear him. He needed to get out, to run. Julianne understood, so she let him go. Celia, BJ needs to run. He doesn't need to be alone. Ask Blaine to join him, please. she sent to her best friend. Blaine and Celia were up instantly. Within seconds Blaine shifted and went in search of his best friend. BJ ran, as far away as he could. He was scared, angry, frustrated, and he felt helpless. He could lose his children. Geraldo never said so but as a father he knew if it was his kids he'd want them with him. Blaine found him and rubbed against him. The two shifted back and Blaine sat and waited as his best friend cried.

Blaine wished he could say things would be ok. He wished he could say Geraldo was a fake. He wanted to say anything he could to alleviate BJ's fears, but he could not. The children had not met their father but they would next week. No matter what happened though, Blaine would be there for his friend. Soon BJ bellowed, a sound so mournful that the wolves within the pack howled back in response. No one knew what hurt the beta so, but they knew that whatever it was they'd stand with him against it. 

Blaine, is he ok? Celia asked, the pain from her brother crushing her heart. 

He's scared, Celia. He can't lose those kids. Blaine answered. 

Celia spoke with Jules. She was her best friend and she knew this was hard on her as well. She wished she could fix this, but things had to play out. Jules, Blaine is with him and they are talking. It will be alright; it has to be. She sent then she gave her best friend a mental hug. Jules hugged her back and then she joined her girls. Marisol was not sleeping, but Rosita was.

"Momma, you're hiding something from me." Marisol told her. "I know you are trying to protect me, but it's hurting you and Poppa. Please tell me what's wrong?" she asked.

Julianne hugged her oldest daughter, and whispered. "Nothing is really wrong. We will tell you when you get back from visiting family. Don't worry. It will be fine. OK." she promised, hopping her words were true. Marisol trusted her mother. She had never lied to her and she knew she spoke the truth now. She returned her embrace, and answered, "Ok, Momma, but when we get, I want the truth."

Julianne sighed and held Marisol close as she drifted off to sleep. She sent a shaft of love to her mate, and soon she too slept. BJ returned home and checked on his family. They were all still safe and tucked in. He woke Jules and she joined him in their bed, where he held her close. The next few days would be tough, but he'd do whatever it took to protect his family.





Time for Truth Ch. 08



Welcome back,

The girls visit Thane. A new member of Thane arrives, and things with Benny and Bruce come to a head. Aria realizes she likes older men.

There are no sexual acts involving any one underage in this chapter. All sexual acts involve participants that are above the age of consent.

***Special Note****

When you finish reading this chapter, please read Desires. It is a companion story to this chapter. Chapter nine will be written soon. 

Thank you so much for reading my offerings and sharing your thoughts.

Happy reading. IR2R



"Michael, it's time." Brandy shook her husband waking him. Leaping from the bed, the alpha called for the healers. The baby was early; she still had two weeks to go. Within minutes, the healer was there to check their leader.

"Madam Alpha, MJ has decided to come a little early." The healer teased.

"Look, this hurts. How long?" Brandy asked, not believing that it hurt as badly as it did. Michael came in and talked with her, trying to help her say calm during contractions. Fortunately for Brandy, her labor wasn't very long. Within three hours, Michael Thane Junior met his Mother and father red-faced and screaming. The doctor placed the babe in his father's arm, and everyone cried along with their alpha as he held his son.

Clarence realized his alphas were busy, so he and Justin headed to the airport to pick up the girls that were visiting from Texas. Soon the two males arrived at the airport and of course they were not surprise to see vampires in the vicinity. These wolves were guarded completely. 

Soon the small private plane from Texas landed. Clarence and Justin waited as the five girls walked in. Clarence smiled. Hannah and Miriam would be over the moon. He approached the group and Marisol smiled. Clarence was awed at how beautiful that young woman was. He was aware that she'd found her mate, so he knew she was off limits. Too bad, he mused. 

The girls giggled and he and Justin carried their luggage to the van. The wolves drove to the apartments where their brothers and cousins were to inform them of their arrival. Marisol greeted Benny immediately as did Rosita. Aria hugged her brother. Clarence noticed that the alpha twins shared similar coloring, and height. Aria, like her brother had a quiet confidence. The boys joined them and everyone drove back to the compound together. Normally guest reported to the Alpha home, but since Madam Alpha Brandy was in transition, they went straight to the community center. Hannah and Miriam were there to greet their grandchildren.

Clarence and Justin carried the girls' luggage to their respective rooms. As they got the girls settled, Clarence reentered the foyer to find Aria Loess looking at artwork. He smiled and spoke., Instant heat infused him, his wolf alert and scenting the young she bitch. Aria was not a novice to male and female relationships even though she was barely twenty-two. 

Licking her lips, she heard the older gentleman moan. "Mr. Um..., Clarence. Thank you for..." Clarence stopped her.

"No need to thank me, Ms. Loess. It was my pleasure to meet you tonight." He explained. Stop it, she's practically a child.he chastised his wolf that was becoming more aroused by the second.

Clarence's reaction to the young alpha daughter bothered him. He was a man and often when he needed to he found females that were receptive to him. He would make sure the woman was older and understood it was just physical. He had to admit the girl was alluring, all of the girls were pretty. But why did his body react to this girl the way that it did. 

It didn't matter. He was one of the top betas in this pack, Aria was under their protection and he'd protect her, especially from himself. Soon the other girls joined them and Clarence was glad to meet Phillips two sisters and see Benny's sisters again. He knew they would enjoy their visit. Soon the girls were ready to meet the pack. Clarence called a few thetas to take the girls around. Benny, Ares, Kevin, and Phillip were with them, so he wasn't worried about anyone getting out of hand.

Clarence stood and smiled. As he wished the young group a great day, his eyes landed on the lovely Aria. His animal reacted, and he subjugated his beast. He reminded him that she was too young for them. His wolf huffed and refused to speak to him. He wanted to check on his alphas, so he left the group in the capable hands of his pack member. His animal was annoyed that Justin also seemed to take interest in the auburn haired beauty.

Castigating himself as he went to check on Michael and Brandy, Clarence felt like an old fool. He approached the alpha's private rooms cautiously. Quietly he knocked. Michael opened the door, and he entered. Brandy was asleep and his new God son was cuddled in his father's arms. 

"Congratulations, old man, Let me look at this guy." He teased. Michael proudly showed his son to his best friend. Clarence was awed. The babe was simply perfect. "Wow, Mike, he's perfect. How did everything go? No problems?" he asked. He really wanted to be there for the birth, but he had other duties to perform.

"No complications, everything went well. She hurt so bad man. But having him here, I don't regret it. Too bad he'll be an only child." he stated. 

"Darn right. I am not putting myself through that again. Bring me my son," Brandy demanded waking.

Clarence chuckled, "Mad-" he started to greet her.

"Uh uh, he's Mike and you want to address me formally. Cut the shit Clarence." She ordered. Clarence laughed,

"Language Brandy, young ears." He added raising his eyebrow at the babe. 

Brandy looked contrite and then shot back. "I can't wait until you find your mate and have your own little one. Clarence, it is the most amazing feeling." Brandy insisted as Michael sat beside her and nodded. 

They were happy and now things at Thane were perfect. Clarence watched his alphas with their son, and he knew that if anyone deserved this happiness, it was the couple before him. 

Then he remembered their guest, "Oh the girls from Loess are here. We stopped in the city and the boys rode back with us. They are giving them a tour of the compound. I took the liberty of having the staff assign them two rooms, Phillips sister are in the blue room, and Benny's sisters are in the aqua room. I place Aria in the purple room." He explained. Ever observant, Brandy was not so wrapped up in new Mommy-hood that she missed the subtle change in Clarence's tone when he mentioned the alpha daughter.

"Thank you Clarence. I'd like to meet them. If you can, give me a few hours and then bring them here." Brandy suggested. MJ began to fret and she needed to feed him. Not wanting another male to witness such an intimate moment, Michael escorted Clarence from the room. 

"Well, old man, how do you really feel?" Clarence asked. Michael was a very private person. He never shared what he was thinking or feeling with many. Clarence was one of the few people he talked to. "I'm happy, nervous, scared as hell. I was holding him and thinking about the situation at Loess. I know you know about the Daniel's children's birthfather returning." Michael stopped. 

"I've only had my son for a few hours, but I could not imagine being separated from him. I like BJ and Julianne. They are great people, and this has to be hard on them. When Javon called last night, I had no problem letting the girls get away. They are our family too, and I I want to help in any way that I can. Then I think about the birth father. I'm not sure what happened, but from talking with Javon he didn't abandon his children. He loves them just as much as BJ and Jules. Holding my son made me look at things differently. This man lost his kids and they need to know him. Javon is a great alpha and BJ is one of the most honorable men I know. I hope they can figure out something, because when the truth comes out, those kids will need all three of them." Michael concluded. Clarence was stunned. Out of all the years he'd been friends with Michael, he'd never known him to speak so candidly. He had to agree, Michael was right.





Time for Truth Ch. 08



Both of the young men sat, and neither spoke. Clarence took a deep breath. "Gentlemen, we can sit here all day. I have nothing else to do, or you can tell me what precipitated the altercation between the two of you." Benny looked away. He gave Saphirra his word. He would not break the promise he made to her.

"Sir, I asked Saphirra out. But I should not have, especially after our misunderstanding..." he stopped. 

"After what misunderstanding Bruce?" Clarence prompted.

Benny had heard enough, Promise or no promise, he was not about to sit here and let Bruce lie about what he had done. "He has been harassing her. I told her I wouldn't say anything, but I can't keep quiet and let him get away with this. The other night, he and his friends harassed us. He called her awful names, and I warned him, sir. I told him to leave her alone or else. Now he has the nerve to ask her to go out with him. After the way he treated her, Hell No." Benny stated furiously. 

Clarence repositioned his body between the two males and called for a couple of wolves to join them. 

"Bruce, is Benson telling the truth?" he asked.

Bruce was terrified. After he saw Benny snap at the courts, he wasn't about to risk him coming after him again. So he nodded, "Yes but the thing is I like her. She is absolutely perfect. I only treated her like that because she was with him. He's not from here. What gives him the right to come here and take our women?" Bruce demanded ready to fight.

Benny was ready as well. All he had to do was move a fraction of an inch. Betas or no betas, Bruce would be taught a lesson tonight. The two males that Clarence called separated the two young men.

"Enough, both if you sit." Clarence demanded.

"Bruce, if you treated this girl so horribly, do you think she'll go anywhere with you? Think about it, if someone treated Naomi that way, what would you do?" Clarence asked, 

Bruce stepped back. He thought of how he'd treated Saphirra and knew that if he heard of any guy speaking to his sister that way he'd hurt them. He dropped his head. Shamed and furious at himself for his foolish actions overwhelmed him.

Everyone was silent. "Benny, I apologize again. I know she'll never even look at me, and now that she has you I don't stand a chance. But in all honesty, she's the only girl that I've ever really wanted. I know that right now, she's with you, so I'll leave her alone. I'll show her that I am not the creep she thinks I am, and maybe one day, I'll stand a chance with her." Bruce extended his hand, "You are one lucky wolf. She deserves to be happy." He faced Clarence, "Sir, can I go. I need to be alone for a while." 

Clarence nodded, but told him. "Bruce as soon as Alpha Michael has time, we need to meet with him. We need to address this issue. OK, son." 

Bruce's shoulders slumped. The alpha would be told of this, and he was sure he'd know even more because Saphirra would have to tell the truth. He sighed and answered, "Yes sir." And then he left. Clarence had two of his betas shadow him just in case he decided to bother someone else.

Alpha Michael, we have an issue. You need to address it as soon as you can. Clarence sent.

Michael replied.  Ok, I'll be in my office later.

Clarence then faced Benny, "Is Saphirra your mate?" 

Benny couldn't say no, but he also could not say yes. "Honestly, Clarence, I have no idea. But I do know that I won't let anyone else cause her pain." Clarence nodded, accepting his response. Benny left and joined Saphirra at the court. Mona smiled and left the young couple alone. She asked what happened and he told her things were fine. Soon their friends and family returned.





Time for Truth Ch. 08



Soon Geraldo stopped sobbing, and realized that someone was holding him, two people actually. He inhaled and smiled at Julianne's scent. Then he realized that his children's parents were his source of comfort. He could not take them from these two wonderful people, so they had to find away to co-parent together.

Javon sat and let the drama unfold and once they regained control he spoke. "You have to show a united front. I know Marisol is an adult now, but I feel this will affect her the most. You see Geraldo, she might remember you. Rosita was an infant when you left and Javier had not been born. The two younger children might be more accepting at first. BJ, Julianne, you have to be there for them and let them know it's ok to be angry, but it's also OK to love their father. The thing is you BJ are their Poppa, Geraldo you are their Dad. Take today the three of you and find a way to unite. You can d this, I believe in you." Javon concluded.

Elise hugged all three adults, and told them to call her if they needed anything. Jules hugged her back and thanked her. 

"Um, I'm calling in. Geraldo, come to our house so we can talk more." BJ suggested. Gerald agreed, and Jules frowned. 

"I am not a maid and I will not be a servant for you two. If you make a mess, then BJ and Geraldo, make sure you clean it up. Oh and if you mess up my house, I'm pulling both of your ears." She added for good measure. BJ laughed and pulled his mate into his arms. He kissed her and inhaled her scent. 

"We won't fight, and Geraldo will do the dishes, right buddy?" BJ suggested. Geraldo laughed and said 'Sure, BJ will dry."





Time for Truth Ch. 09



Welcome back,

Clarence has an epiphany. The kids come to terms with their father. Vince introduces someone new. 

There are no sexual acts involving any one underage in this chapter. All sexual acts involve participants that are above the age of consent.

Thank you so much for reading my offerings and sharing your thoughts.

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 09



That evening, when she stopped by, I knew resisting her was pointless and that Brandy was right. Then..." he paused. "We argued and she left. I should have not yelled at her but the situation was getting out of hand. "

Michael spoke, "Kim, she threatened to expose the affair, right?" Michael asked.

"It doesn't matter. I panicked and handled everything wrong." Clarence surmised.

"You can go to Texas. Marisol is graduating Friday, and Hannah, Miriam, and Jebediah are going. You can go with them." Michael suggested.

"Mike, if I go and see her with someone else, I might hit him." Clarence sighed. 

"Maybe if you showed up, you wouldn't have to him hit." Mike chuckled. "But once Javon realizes your interest in his daughter, be ready to get your ass kicked."

Clarence groaned. "No, I won't go there. She deserves a chance with someone her age."

"OK, I won't force you, but if you don't go then you need to talk to her or something, even if it's just to find closure." Michael suggested. Then he cleared his throat. "Well now that we've talked, I expect you to join Brandy and me for breakfast. Then you will go to the airport to pick up Phillips family and help Hannah and the Daniels catch their flight."

Clarence smiled, "Yes alpha." He answered, "Now go home and kiss my Godson for me."

Michael left and decided that tomorrow Clarence was getting on that flight to Texas. Even if he had to break his promise and command that he go.





Time for Truth Ch. 09



"Well, as you can see, I am fine. Thanks for stopping by. If you don't mind, I need rest and you two need to go." She added moving to escort them out. 

"Diane, you are welcomed to come to the compound. If you need anything, we are there." Blaine offered. She paused, and he waited a moment. 

Then she replied, "Thank you, both of you, but I'm fine. Now gentleman, if you don't mind, I need you to go." She added. Both men complied and left. On the drive home, Vince sat smiling, and Blaine had to tease him. 

Diane had to move and she had to do so quickly So as soon as Vince and his uncle cleared her parking lot, she grabbed her duffel bag. 

Tomorrow night, at this time, Diane Black would be history. Throwing her few clothes into the bag, she headed for the road. Hitchhiking was dangerous, but she was sure she could take care of herself. Leaving a note for her landlord which held one month's rent, Amari once again chose to vanish. 





Time for Truth Ch. 10



 Welcome back,

Clarence claims his woman. Javon loses control. Our friendly vampires are back. We get a peak at the Jael Pack.

^^^^WARNING: There is an element of nonconsent and incest in this chapter.^^^^ 

There are no sexual acts involving any one underage in this chapter. All sexual acts involve participants that are above the age of consent.

Thank you so much for reading my offerings and sharing your thoughts.

Happy reading. IR2R

Iyoka ***pronounced***I yo kuh





Time for Truth Ch. 10



Clarence groaned when her lips met his. Taking control, he wanted to let her know in that kiss that she was all he ever wanted, all he needed. The door opened and they pulled apart. "Baby, go to your cousin's graduation, have fun with your friends. I'll be here. I'll wait."

Aria was hesitant about leaving him in her parent's home. "It's ok. I'll be fine. Go, Marisol needs you there." She kissed him once more and left.

Blaine and Thaddeus entered. Clarence was sitting as the two uncles approached him. "Clarence, are you attending the graduation?" Thaddeus asked.

Clarence nodded. "Well you can ride with Nina and me. Go get dressed and we'll head to the school in thirty minutes." Thaddeus explained.

Blaine said nothing. He just watched the other men. Clarence faced Thaddeus and whispered "Thank you."

Blaine walked out.  Blaine, Blaine, answer me. Celia sent. Something was going on with her mate. 

Babe, I'm OK. The Thane beta is Aria's mate. Blaine sent.  Javon lost it. He beat the hell out of him. I've never seen him so out of control.

Celia was speechless. Within minutes news of the alpha's melt down was running rampant through the compound. Geraldo was concerned. He liked Javon. He had never been alpha, but as alpha son he knew it was not an easy position. He headed to the alpha home to check on his friend.

Everyone had gone, and Elise was talking with her mate. Javon was silent. Geraldo knocked and entered. "Elise, let me talk to him." She hesitated, but left the men alone.

"Javon, talk to me. What's going on?" Geraldo asked.

"It's nothing. Marisol is graduating. We need to get to the school I'll deal with these issues later." Javon declared.

He didn't trust him. Geraldo was hurt, but he understood. An alpha could not appear weak. Any hint of weakness put his pack at risk. But, Geraldo had no desire to take over Loess. He just wanted to help. 

"OK, I'll meet you back here in a few minutes. Javon, I just want to help." He explained to Javon before he walked out. Javon nodded.





Time for Truth Ch. 10



"Mother, Father, the scouts have reported back. There is no sighting of Amari. I want permission to go search." Iyoka stated.

Kendall faked concern. "No, Iyoka, Amari is missing and you want to go out there. There are vampires, all sorts of dangers. Please Jenzel, don't allow this." She sobbed,

Iyoka rolled her eyes. Her mother could care less if she lived or died. She hated her and she knew it. Sadly, no one in this pack cared. Well, someone cared. Someone helped her sister escape. She would find her and if she was safe; she would come back and tell them she was murdered.

If she was not safe, then she would help her find safety, and then come back and tell them she perished. Amari was hers to take care of. She was a secret blessing that her parents wanted no one to know the truth about.

Many thought Iyoka was sterile as a result of being brutally raped on her eighteenth birthday. That was not true. She was raped, but it was not what made her sterile. Her father wanted another child and Mother was unable to give him one. The night after her birthday, he drank heavily. She returned home from her party and was ready to tell them she wanted to move to her own apartment. 

Her father walked into her room and cleared his throat. She felt dirty. This was not the first time she had a nocturnal visit from him. "Father, this is not your room. Your room is across the hall." She explained. He took off his robe, stroked his cock and leered sat her. Iyoka averted her eyes, refusing to view her father's nakedness. He stood staring at her, her eyes as dead as they were that night over nineteen years ago, "Iyoka, you're of age now. You need to do what your mother can't." Jenzel jeered at his oldest daughter.

He stunk. Whiskey permeated his breath, his movements were stagnated, Iyoka knew she could avoid him. And for a while she did. Until her mother helped him grab her. Her mother held her down as her father raped her. He even marked her, mated her. Her mother choked her and forced her to return his mark. He pinned her. After that first night, she didn't fight him anymore. 

After a few months, she conceived. Her mother had her hidden. She grew bigger and bigger each month. No one checked on her. Mother would check to make sure she was still pregnant. Often she sneered at her. She cried so much, but no one came to help her. 

She had to protect her baby. Somehow he or she could not be treated the way she was. She prayed the baby was a male. A male might suffer beatings, but a female would be beaten, verbally battered, and quite possibly raped. She would keep her child safe somehow. 

She remember going into labor. Her parents came and waited. Her mother delivered the baby. She was so weak and had to fight to remain conscious. Something was wrong and mother called a healer. Soon after her daughter was born she blacked out. She awoke in her bedroom, confused. She had a baby that was her daughter, but Momma said she wasn't her daughter, but sister. 

The healer cane to her room and gave her a shot. When she woke up this time her mother was pretending to cry as she held her baby. She remembered her mother telling her no one could know she had that baby. The baby was hers and daddy. She needed to remember that. Iyoka remembered asking to hold her baby, but Mother refused. She didn't have a baby. 

They told the pack that she was attacked by a rogue male. Because of his brutality, Iyoka was sterilized. Mother never left her alone with the baby. She and father pretended that the child was theirs. When Amari was two, she found herself alone with her for the first time. The little girl looked just like her.

They tried to brainwash her, make her forget, but she knew this little girl was her daughter. She hugged her and told her she'd protect her no matter what it took. She did her best and failed most of the time. But she would not fail her this time. She would find her daughter and make sure she found a safe place. Then she would come back and tell them she died. 

Amari was not coming back to this place. She would make sure of that. "Iyoka, yes, go help find your sister. Bring her home." Kendall insisted.

Iyoka bowed, lowered her eyes in submission. "I will find her, I promise." She vowed. Then she left to go out with the scouts. The next morning they were headed east. She had to have traveled farther than they thought. As they were about to drive off, Joe grabbed her. "Bring her back to me, or your parent's lives are forfeit." He hissed.

Iyoka acted afraid, but honestly she didn't care if he killed them. The only thing she regretted was that she had to leave her people sat his mercy. She nodded, but even a threat from that sadistic bastard would not change her mind. Her sister, her baby, Amari, was not coming back to this place.

She nodded and her and the other scouts took off. "Iyoka, don't worry. We will succeed where the other's failed. We will find your sister and bring her home." David, her companion stated.

Iyoka looked at him, "She is not coming back to this place. You are my best friend, my only friend. Help me protect her. Help me make sure my little girl is safe." David nodded. If Iyoka said to make sure Amari was safe then that was what he would do. He hated his alphas. He remembered finding her after her father used her. He challenged him and he ordered three of his betas to beat him within an inch of his life. They put him in a coma and when he woke up, Alpha Madam said Iyoka was sick and in seclusion. 

Then one night a baby girl was born. One day in secret, she told him what her parents had done to her. She told him the baby was her daughter. Gone was the beautiful girl she'd once been. Iyoka cut her hair, and made herself as unattractive to males as she could.

She was very protective of Amari. Most of the pack thought she was being a good big sister, but David knew the truth. When Amari was whipped, she cried. When she grew older, she fought anyone that tried to harm the girl. Her mother sat aside and did nothing. Then one night, the alpha pair announced that Amari would be mated with Joe. Iyoka was frozen. Then as the celebration went into the night, Amari ran.

"Neither one of you will comeback. When we find her, I want you to go with her. Find a new pack, a new home." David whispered. 

Iyoka nodded, "OK, but you have to come with us." 

"Of course, you need a big strong male for protection, right?" he teased.

Then they drove across the state border heading east to Texas.





Time for Truth Ch. 11



 Welcome back,

Javon accepts Clarence. Ares calls Zoe. Jael Pack members arrive at Thane. The Jael wolves meet the vampires.

There are no sexual acts involving any one underage in this chapter. All sexual acts involve participants that are above the age of consent.

Thank you so much for reading my offerings and sharing your thoughts.

Happy reading. 

Iread2relax





Time for Truth Ch. 11



Julianne trembled. Her baby was right, and she remembered everything. Javon, come here now. Elise sent. Javon went to her immediately. Elise latched on to her mate. He held her close as he listened to the information Amari shared with them. It was time and something needed to be done.





Time for Truth Ch. 11



Javon spoke, "Gentlemen, we will place you in our holding cells until morning, and then we will decide what to do with you from there." The vampires grabbed the men and lead them to the basement. Gernick and Garrick went with them. Once the men were secured the vampires returned to talk to Javon. 

Javon sighed, "We go after Jael tomorrow. Their reign of terror needs to end." 

Gernick and Garrick nodded, "You will not face them on your own. We will be there." He vanished. 





Time for Truth Ch. 12



Welcome,

Joe and the Jael alphas meet their end. Javon fights for his life. Iyoka knows who Geraldo is. Jael gets a new name.

All characters in this story are above the age of consent.

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 12



He devolved and gave full control to his beast. Snarling viciously, Javon bit the wolf that held him causing him to lose balance. Then the angry wild beast attacked his foe full force. 

Blaze loved it. Now he could have a real fight. Javon was no longer human, just an angry beast that was furious that this bastard had the gall to try and take what was his. He dove and Blaze dodged. Javon hit the hard concrete floor. Blaze attacked, biting chunks of flesh from his opponent. Javon was bleeding but he could not give up. His family depended on him.

Blaze laughed. He had defeated the Loess Falls alpha and would soon take over the pack. His laughter angered the injured alpha and Javon remembered his past of being thrown into a dog pit and having to fight to survive. Forcing his body to move, he leaped once more catching the cocky beta off guard. Javon went for his throat. Blaze used speed to throw the alpha once more. Javon tackled him once more ripping into his side. Blaze was not done. He would die and he knew it, but he needed the alpha angry enough to kill the other men that were with him. He knew what would push Javon over the edge. He changed tactics and lunged at Elsie. Javon growled and went in fir the kill. He did not just rip his throat apart, bur he ripped his entire head from his body.

However his beast was not done. Each member of Jael, that was in that room, had to die. Javon systematically took apart the remaining wolves. They fought but when faced with a infuriated alpha they were easily defeated. Finally one wolf was left, and he could not fight. Javon's wolf growled. Then the man reasserted himself. He remembered this wolf. Amari mentioned him, David! This wolf stood in front of the girl when they arrived although he was the weakest amongst them. Amari begged for his life in the same breathe that she begged them to spare her sister. 

"Calm, my beast. We are done. David is not a threat. Javon coaxed his animal.

He is Jael. He dies. the wolf demanded.

My wolf, he is damaged. Javon sent. The wolf scented the young man who bared his neck for him to take. That was enough for the wolf to see reason. Javon shifted back. "What was he referring to when he said you were almost killed."

David shook, and realized that for now the alpha spared him. "Iyoka told me her father raped her. I went after him and he ordered that I be beaten. They locked her up. I couldn't find her and when she was allowed to be freed, she told me about..." he stopped.

Javon spoke."We know Amari is her daughter. You, David are a true friend, and I would like for you to remain here..You are not a prisoner, OK."

It was at that moment that David lost control of his body. After he had evacuated his bladder, Javon ordered that he be allowed a room and clean clothes. He also wanted him to see a healer.

Elise was waiting and leaped into her mates arms. He was almost killed and she would not have been able to survive that. 





Time for Truth Ch. 12



Some of the Jael betas waited. They were members of a new pack and unsure if their roles. Geraldo faced them and said. Betas go home, rest. I can tell by your actions here today that you are not like your former leaders.

Michael joined Geraldo and congratulated him. He liked this guy and knew that things at Jael would be different now. Then he saw Clarence, so he excused himself to talk with his head beta. The newly formed Cortez pack members made room for their guest. Thane was close by, so Michael and his wolves simply went back home, but not before Michael had a chance to rib Clarence. Clarence took his teasing in stride. But hugged his friend before he left.

Geraldo, BJ, Nina, and Thaddeus entered the alpha home. Several of the wolves that worked there waited nervously. Soon they each found a room they were comfortable in. The wolves led Geraldo to the alpha suite. They changed the linen, cleared out their old alpha things, but Geraldo refused to sleep in that room. He saw the faces on the omegas drop and was quick to reassure them. 

"You have done a fantastic job preparing this room. But that man was despicable, and I cannot sleep in this room right now. You weren't here during the battle, but I have my reasons. Is there a smaller room available? The theta nodded and showed the new alpha to the guest room. Geraldo went in and sat down. He thought about Iyoka. She had surgery today, was she alright? He called Javon to ask about her. Javon told him she was fine and that Kim actually gave her some good news. He should call her room at the medical center.

He got the information from Javon and dialed the medical center, within minutes her phone rang.

"Hello," Iyoka answered.

"I killed them. They will never hurt you again." Geraldo whispered. Then he sniffed. 

"Geraldo, thank you. I will be forever grateful." She whispered. She knew he cried, and it hurt her. She had to say something to make him happy. "The surgery worked. I am no longer ill. I have you to thank for that. I am indebted to you Geraldo. Maybe someday I can repay your kindness."

Geraldo took a deep breath. "I am alpha of this pack now. I changed the name. We are the Cortez Pack." 

Iyoka was silent, then she spoke. "I know. I knew the moment you became my alpha. Did we lose a lot of wolves?" she asked. 

"Only the wolves that fought with your father and Joe were killed." Geraldo explained. "Baby, you need to rest. I will come back to Texas tomorrow for a while but I can't stay. We need to rebuild." He explained.

"OK, Geraldo, thank you." She whispered.

"Iyoka, you're welcome. Now rest." He added then hung up.

Ares and Benny rode home with the wolves from Thane. They missed their girlfriends and wanted to see them before returning to Texas. Thaddeus gave both boys permission to go but told them it was only for one night. 

Ares went straight to Zoe's apartment. He rang the doorbell and she snatched it open and leaped into his arms. She was so worried, so afraid. She needed him, as badly as he needed her. Neither spoke, she just grabbed Ares and pulled him inside. Ares held her close. He inhaled her scent. Today had been harrowing, something he'd never forget. He recalled listening to the Madam alpha and never in his life had he felt such anger. All he could think about was his family and his mate. 

He needed Zoe. He had to see her, to hold her, to remind himself that there was some good in this world. "Ares, talk to me." Zoe whispered. She could see that whatever happened shook him to his core. "I want you to come home with me. I will ask alpha Michael if it's ok. I need you the meet my family, and become a apart of us. I know this is sudden, but will you come?" he asked.

Zoe sighed. "Let me talk to Madam Alpha Brandy, OK." She replied. "Come on, you need to rest." She led him to her bedroom, and he lay on her bed. Zoe lay beside him until he slept. She got up and dressed and then sent a message to Madam Alpha Brandy. 





Time for Truth Ch. 13



Welcome,

Amari learns about Vince's past. Ares and Benny bring their mates home to meet the pack. Geraldo talks with pack members in the newly formed Cortez Pack. BJ and Jules make a decision.

All characters in this story are above the age of consent.

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 13



Soon they were at the dining hall and everyone ate. Alpha Michael asked the Loess males to join him. Both young men made their request and he gave his permission. Then he called Javon. 

Javon called Elise and told her Ares and Benny were bringing their mates home. Elise smiled and immediately called Celia. 





Time for Truth Ch. 13



"Sir, I know you don't trust us yet. Honestly, most of us didn't trust you. But you have done everything you can to show us that you care. I believe you need to go to Texas, but have no idea who you can trust." The theta added. 

"Today when your friend left, you assigned roles. You chose Ransom to lead, and he did a great job for you. You have some men that are strong betas. You have to trust them. May I make a suggestion sir?" he asked.

"Yes." Geraldo answered. Since staying at Loess, he watched Javon. Javon listened to his pack and always took his time before making a decision. He liked that and he would apply that method here. 

"Call all of the betas in and poll them. And chose two to leave in charge. Once they know you trust them, their faith in you will increase. If I may be frank sir, they respect you and are loyal to you already. They never served the other ones this willingly." He suggested. Geraldo thanked him and went back to his room. It was late, and he still was not sure what to do. 





Time for Truth Ch. 14



Welcome,

Amari and Vince mate. Marisol goes to school. Hannah, Miriam, and Jebediah go home.  Oh, the vampire council calls again.

I would like to thank Felicia for taking time to edit this chapter for me. You are simple amazing. Thank you for helping bring my vision to life. Overstar, thank you as well. I could not have asked for two better people to assist me in this feat. 

All characters in this story are above the age of consent.

Happy reading.    IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 14



Amari looked at her dark haired Adonis appreciatively. At 6 feet tall the two of them were just about the same height, but he was broad shouldered and had a strongly muscled torso that appealed to her and she was dying to know  what it would feel like to finally be held by him intimately. He'd taken a few steps back from her but she quickly closed the distance between them and grabbed his cheeks before placing a scorching kiss on his lips. 

While Amari's lips moved passionately over his Vince stood stock-still. He knew if he moved even an inch the tenuous hold he had on his control would snap and he would take her right here and right now. There would be no way he'd be able to stop himself and she'd said she wanted to wait. The very last thing he wanted was to do something that she'd regret later.

However, Amari had other ideas and whispered, "Vince, do you want me?"

 With her deep red locks framing her face and her gorgeous green eyes staring back at him Vince could feel his control slipping and his body started to shake."Baby, you are driving me insane; we have to stop," he told her with a note of pleading in his voice.  "Unless you are ready to mate with me Amari, then we need to..." but before he could finish his statement she kissed him again.

That was the last straw for him and his control snapped. Vince growled loudly and seized control of the kiss and her body. Lofting her against the wall, he quickly moved between her thighs, pressing his hard length against her core where she was so hot and so needy. 

'"Vince, I don't want to wait anymore," Amari whispered. 

"Fuck!" he groaned as the last amount of restraint he possessed melted away at her words.

She knew he could smell her arousal. Her pussy was literally dripping she was so ready for him, but she still had to play the game, so she pushed Vince's body back and slid away from the wall he'd pushed her up against. Vince began to growl and turned quickly to stalk after her but stopped when he saw that she was removing the short skirt that she was wearing, panties, and all. His growl turned to a groan as he took in her frame and saw just how wet she was for him. Her juices were literally dripping from her body making his cock throb and his mouth salivate. 

He stood transfixed just watching her and Amari smiled. "If you want me then you'll have to catch me," she teased and took off. The apartment was small, but not so small that she could not outmaneuver her mate. He went left, and she faked right. After a few minutes of dashing around the apartment Vince managed to gain momentum and got her pinned against the wall. She was sweaty, and he was panting from their exertions.

"Enough, you're mine Amari! And after tonight there will be no question who you belong to," Vince growled possessively.

Shoving him to the floor, Amari growled as she tore his pants off of him and sank her hungry pussy onto his stiff cock.  "Shut up, too much talking!!!"

Vince moaned as her body engulfed him and Amari rode him steadily using clear sure strokes as she claimed the one man she wanted to be with forever. 

Despite how good it felt to finally be joined with his mate Vince suddenly had a moment of clarity and grabbed her hips. She had to stop. They were not protected. This was too risky.

"What?" Amari asked as she laid her body forward into him.

"Baby, condoms, I have condoms in the bedroom we need..." but she placed her fingers on his lips to quiet him.

"You don't need them anymore Vince. I'm yours and you're mine," she told him softly.

Letting the reality of that statement sink in for a moment Vince rolled her over so that he was now on top of her and took control of their lovemaking riding his woman into ecstasy. Amari had never known pleasure so real and so complete until now. Suddenly, her wolf rose up and right there on the floor in the kitchen of their small apartment she prepared to mark her mate.

"Vince," she hissed.

Vince could tell by the tone of her voice and the look in her eyes what she wanted and needed and he needed it too...desperately. "Please Amari, please mark me baby," he whispered to her and roared as soon as her teeth pierced the skin of his neck. 

The sensations running through his body were more intense than anything he'd ever felt before and he was unable to subdue his beast any longer so Vince gave in to his most base desires and marked his mate. The feeling of Amari's blood running down his throat and his knot forming were pushing him toward a place he knew he'd never been before. Forcing his knot way inside her convulsing cunt he came in a haze of pleasure so intense he was afraid for moment that he was going to lose consciousness. Amari too was lost in a haze of coital bliss. The feeling of Vince thrusting his knot into her had set off another wave of orgasm that was even stronger than the ones that had come before it and her body shook from wave after wave of pleasure that was coursing through it.

Vince never stopped moving, as Amari held on to him tightly. Soon, she was laughing out of sheer happiness. "Well Mr. Loess, are you OK?" she asked with a huge satisfied smile on her face. 

Vince's eyes sparkled with happiness as he answered her. "I've never been better Mrs. Loess. How are you?" he asked. 

I'm officially a member of Loess now. Your parents will want to see us at breakfast," she informed him and he laughed. 

"Well, let me put my mate to bed. She needs some rest," he replied lifting her off the floor and carrying her into their bedroom.

The two had been lying in bed for just a few minutes still connected by Vince's knot when suddenly he felt a little strange. Something was happening to him, but he realized quickly that it was just his knot releasing or so he thought. At about the same time he also realized that Amari was ready for him again, and he was most definitely ready to make love to her again. Only this time he wanted to take it slowly and really have a chance to get to know his mate's beautiful body. He wanted to explore every inch of her frame. She was perfect and she was his, and he spent the next several hours making sure that she knew just how happy that made him. Lying between her thighs, he entered her slowly while kissing her and telling her how much he loved her. Vince made love to his mate thoroughly with his heart, mind, and soul. In the kitchen, he'd been a wolf dominating his bitch, but in their bedroom, he was a man loving his woman. 

Amari was so happy. She was prepared to do anything and everything she could to keep this man happy both in bed and out of bed. She realized quickly that he was a very thorough lover. And for a man that claimed he'd had almost no experience with women, he certainly knew how to take care of her. Soon, he was begging her to cum for him, to cum with him and she did just that as they both soared to the heavens.

Sometime later, after Vince had acquainted himself with every part of Amari's body several times she was laying in bed happy and sated. She finally belonged to Vince. She was finally free and no longer oppressed. She could finally just be was the last thought that ran through her head before she finally dozed off. 

Vince was about to follow her when he heard the sweetest sound he'd ever heard in his life. "Hi Daddy." Vince gasped quietly as realization sank in. In a few months, he'd be a father.

Dad! he called, surprised and very happy.

Vince is everything OK? Amari, is she alright?" Javon asked immediately. 

Yes, we're both fine.  I didn't mean to worry you.  Sorry, it's just that... I mean... Dad, she may have conceived.

Javon smiled, Congratulations son, care for your mate tonight. We can talk tomorrow. And he ended the communication with his son as Elise walked in.

"What?" she demanded, immediately realizing that something was up.

"In a few months we will be welcoming our first grand pup," Javon explained.

"Wait! Who?" Elise asked. Aria and Clarence had just mated, and Vince and Amari had only been mated for an hour, but then she remembered Vince's unique makeup and screamed leaping into her mate's arms. Her son was having his first pup. She had to wait for confirmation of course, but she was so excited and wanted to share the news.





Time for Truth Ch. 14



"Benson, we don't have to hurry," Saphirra reminded him as his two siblings joined her in his bed. His younger sister snuggled in close as his younger brother wrapped his arms protectively around both females. He just smiled and shook his head at the sight in front of him. Any doubts he may have had about his family were washed away in that moment.

Saphirra smiled at him before sleep claimed her. "Next time," she whispered. 

Benny nodded in agreement. "Next time," he said to her and snuggled in with the three of them.

Now as they ate breakfast and celebrated Vince and Amari's mating Benny and Saphirra cheered happily for them.





Time for Truth Ch. 15



Welcome,

The vampires talk. They must reach a decision. We visit the newly formed Cortez Pack. Also, David pops in. 

This chapter is self-edited. I certainly hope the errors you find do not detract from the story. 

All characters in this story are above the age of consent.

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 15



Javon told them about the meeting with Cassius. He explained that their children might be sent to Dracount. Javon was furious, these children were pack and they were not being sent across the contry. He wanted to speak with the council.

Gernick felt something like pride in his wolf friend. He knew the wolves would automatically object. But there was more.

They went on to explain the attacks on Jonathan. Nina and Thaddeus were not surprised. That's when Javon spoke."Were you aware of this?" he demanded.

Thaddeus moved in front of his mate. 

"Yes, when Jonathan visits, Theo has suffered more injuries than usual. At first I assigned betas to watch out for the boys, but then the situation at Jael arose. So I went to Gustavo. He and the vampires agreed to help curb their aggression. When we met the last time several boys attacked them that day. Jonathon told them he was being sent away. I know this because Theo doesn't sleep. He's worried about Jonathan leaving and forgetting him.

Gernick, I apologize. I was trying to keep things in control. When Jonathan visits I make sure an adult is around all of the time. The last time we were all meeting. We never intended for your son to be hurt. I even called the boys and they claimed to just be sparring. You must do what is best for your son, but don't sever his bond with his blood brother. It will kill them to be permanently separated." Thaddeus pleaded.

Nicolette looked at Nina. "Did you know?"

Nina nodded, "I just found out last night. Nickie, I'm sorry." She whispered.

Javon spoke. "I want the boys brought in. Roddrick, go get them please and their parents." Roddrick left immediately to do the alphas bidding. He was glad, as theta, he saw some of what was happening, and he often tried to intervene, but the boys involved ignored him. He wished Javier was here, because when that young wolf was around, the boys backed off. 

Roddrick came back with all four boys and their anxious parents in tow. The group entered the alpha chamber nervously. The fathers demanded to know what their boys had done, and the boys confessed as they rode to the alpha home.

Javon faced the young men and said one word, "SPEAK!"

The boys, talking all over echo other explained that they decided to pick on Jonathan because he couldn't really fight back. It was not fair. They were wolves and he was treated as if he was one too. Jonathan was not a wolf." The boys exclaimed.

Their parents were shocked. Each parent apologized to the Ivanovs. Their son was not a wolf, but he was considered pack. His parents had gone above and beyond their necessary duty to protect the pack. The father's waited. They needed to know what punishment their sons would face. The mother's wept silently, fearing the worse.

Javon spoke "Gernick and Nickie, your children are safe here. These boys will go through training in what it means to protect the pack. Logan, as a high ranking beta, you are responsible for training them. Do not go easy on them. They need to learn. Each Wednesday, I want to meet with all four boys. We will talk. Theo needs to be present as well." Thaddeus and Nina nodded. 

"Gernick and Nicolette, I don't know what you will decide, but if you don't send them I would like for Jonathan to attend as well. We are family, and family protects each other." He concluded.

Gernick and Nickie stood. Theo and Jasmine had joined Jonathan and Amie in the den. They were playing video games. The adults entered silently. They overheard the boys talking.

"Theo," Jonathan sighed as he talked with his best friend. The girls were playing with their dolls. "I want to go to Dracount." Jonathon whispered.

Theo gasped. "Why?"

"I'm vampire, but I know nothing about being vampire. You are my best friend, my only friend, but I need to know more about what I really am. Just like you need a chance to really become a wolf." Jonathon explained.

Theo started to protest. They had been together since Jonathan's birth. Now, Jonathan wanted to move away. He knew it was because of the pack fighting them. Normally, Javier would be here and they would not dare mess with Jonathan as much. However, since he was gone, the guys were awful. Maybe Jonathan was right and they needed to be away from each other. 

"Look, you don't have to go. I'll call Javier and you know they won't fight us anymore when he gets back." Theo assured his blood brother.

"It's not just them Theo. I'm vampire. My Dad is the most feared vampire on the planet, yet I have no idea what that means. I need something more, and if I learn to be a vampire, maybe I can be whole."

Theo was silent but he truly understood. "I'll miss you. Do you know how long it will take?" 

Jonathan sighed, "Not too long, and Amie will have to go too. But as soon as we graduate we're coming home." He whispered.

Nina gasped, drawing the attention of the boys. She rushed forward and hugged her godson. "Jonathan Ivanov, you'd better write and call us. OK." Jonathan smiled and hugged his aunt in return, "OK Aunt Nina, help Momma, OK. Don't let her cry too much." He whispered. He was worried about his Mom. He knew here. He knew she would not want them to go. Dad loved them too, but he was not as clingy as Mom. 

Nina laughed. Gernick and Nicolette shared a look and nodded. It seemed that for once the council was getting a demand met. It seemed as if their son and daughter were attending Dracount. Gernick knew this would not be easy on Nickie. When her mother moved to Asia over thirteen years ago, Nickie had the hardest time adjusting. She loved hard, and feared losing her family. 

He knew this situation with the wolves ripped her heart in two. She was torn between defending her children and protecting her wolf family. Either way, she would have a hard time letting her kids leave.

Amie moved and hugged her Mom. Her momma was the best, and she didn't want to go. Nickie squeezed her baby girl close. Then she sighed. 





Time for Truth Ch. 15



Breakfast ended and Geraldo asked Iyoka to spend the rest of her morning with him. She smiled and the alpha pair went back to their home together. This action did not go unnoticed by then rest of the pack. They all shared secret smiles and hopes for a new alpha mating soon.

Gerald walked home with Iyoka. He had thousands of thoughts floating through his mind. He was nervous, excited, and afraid. If he messed up, she could reject him and where would that leave him.

"I like the way you had the house renovated. I hated this place. My parents cared for no one. The pack told me that you sold most of the things they had here and used the money for needed repairs." She faced her mate. "Geraldo, thank you."

"It was wasteful when the pack was suffering greatly. I know they were your parents so I will not speak ill of them." He stated. "As far as I am concerned, unless it is something you need to discuss, we will no longer refer to them."

Iyoka paused, "You know my history with them, right?" she queried. 

"Yes, why do you think they are gone?" Geraldo answered, his voice chilling.

Iyoka stood and paced the room. "I might not be able to have children." She stated clearly.

"Yet, you might be able to. If not, we have our pack." Geraldo exhaled. He had to tell her the truth about himself. He had to expose who Geraldo Javier Cortez really was. "I am not a nice guy. Iyoka. I've done things. Things I am not proud of. I want to be honest with you, and show you everything I am. I want you to accept me, Iyoka but I won't hide my past."

Iyoka faced her mate and nodded. Geraldo sat beside her and took her hand; He kissed her knuckles and sighed. 

"I am the oldest son of a powerful Mexican Alpha. He mated with my mother and I was told he loved her to the point of insanity. I was born a few years after he became Alpha. They were happy. My mother became pregnant with a second child and she became very ill. She died and the baby was never born."Geraldo sighed, "Father was devastated. He was hard on me, that's why when South American pack sent a woman to meet him I was excited. If father mated, he would be happy again. Pena seemed nice enough. The pack liked her and she ignored me mostly. I did not care, father was happy." 

Geraldo paused, Iyoka waited she seemed to know this was hard. Geraldo faced her and continued his story. He told her of his father's marriage. He stood with this father and the first five years were fantastic. Then he turned fifteen. Pena had given birth to two of his brothers and his sister Adrianna by then. One night, father had to travel and she came to him. She was angry; she felt he was not pulling his weight as the oldest son. Pena started making demands. 

Geraldo continued. "I did everything she asked, and then I met Angel. She was hunting for food when some males from my pack surrounded her. I could tell their intent before I reached them. I intervened and fought them off, Angel ran away." Geraldo paused.

"They reported back to father and I told him what happened. Pena was furious. A lone bitch was in our territory and I defended her. She was trespassing and the males were within their rights. Father sent me out, and things were OK. I finally had a chance to see her again and we became friends. I learned that pack was dying. She would perish if something was not done. She was practically my best friend, so in my eighteen years of wisdom, I suggested that we mate. If we mated, Dad and Pena had to let her live at the compound, right?" He explained.

Iyoka smiled. Her mate was brave and compassionate. Then Geraldo continued. "Father was furious. Pena was pissed, but it did not matter. Angel was my mate and a part of Cortez-Alvarez. He demoted me to omega and gave me the smallest dwelling to live in. Angel did not care. She vowed to love me and she did. We did not love each other at first, but the love grew. For three years, I worked hard, and she was humiliated daily. My brothers and sisters intervened when they could, but often suffered censor at their mother's hand." 

Iyoka cried. She could truly understand what they were going through. No matter what the future held, there pack would never be so cruel, so heartless, . Geraldo stopped, he had to compose himself to finish the story. "One day father approached me and said he could forgive me if I sent her and the children away. I refused then he threw us out. Marisol was a toddler, and Rosita was a baby. She had not conceived Javier yet, but before long, she did. We left to compound carrying nothing but our clothes and the food some of the pack members sneaked to us. We walked for days. I carried Marisol and Angel carried Rosita. No one would give us sanctuary. Father called and asked that no one helped us. I found a small place in the city and became a criminal. I got caught and was sent to prison." Iyoka gasped.

Geraldo pressed on. "Prison was awful. As a wolf, they could not dominate me, but to stay alive, I exerted my authority over many males in that place. There were times that I had to violate other men to exert my dominance. I hated it, but it became a part of what I was. I met a few wolves that came through and took them under my protection. Braden was one. He was released and vowed to help me find my family and he did." 

He looked away, ashamed of his past, knowing that she might refuse him now. He finished the tale. "Iyoka for almost two decades, I was a caged animal, but the moment I was free, I searched for them. I never want my children to know how depraved I was in prison, but I survived. That is why killing your parents was so easy. I have done much worse. However, I need you to know this, you, our children, BJ, Jules, our pack, and our friends, never need to fear me. The man I was there was who I had to be to survive. He is not here. He is gone now." 

He stopped. Iyoka was completely silent. He looked at her and gasped as silent tears flowed down her cheeks. She cried for him and Angel. She cried for their lost youth, and the cruelty they endured.

"Geraldo, everyone has their demons. I am just glad you are here now and we can rebuild together. You saved us and I believe you went through all of those horrible times to be ready for this moment. You accept us; you accept me, flaws and all. You accept my daughter, even though she should be my biggest shame. She is my most prized possession. Your children love you and they forgive you. They are a credit to you and their mother. They are a credit to BJ and Julianne. Rosita is so compassionate, and beautiful. Yesterday, I saw her with some of the other girls. They open up to her. She comforts them. Javier is a genius, with his guidance, many of our boys are helping rebuild and repair worn structures. I only met Marisol briefly, but that girl loves both you and BJ with her whole heart." Iyoka moved and kneeled before her mate. 

Geraldo smiled, "You killed them. You killed my parents and Joe to protect me. I will always love you for that," she whispered.

Geraldo blushed, "I planned to seduce you the first time. Carry you off to a romantic getaway and spend hours convincing you to be with me. But I want you now, Iyoka, I want to mate with you, claim what is our right. I can wait if you need time. I know this is quick. But can I woo you, get to know you, and prove to you I can be a great mate and fantastic father." He asked.

"You have nothing to prove, Geraldo. I am yours. I need to feel your mark. I need every bitch in this place to know you are mine. We can wait and join later. But know this, we will mate soon." Iyoka whispered huskily.

Geraldo leaned forward and tasted her soft lips. Iyoka parted her lips, tasting his tongue. Iyoka moaned. Her male was the sexiest man she's seen in a long time. She stepped back. Geraldo was tall, dark, his deep eyes almost black with his desire. The shirt he wore barely contained his broad shoulders. 

He was so handsome, that he stole her breath. He always wore his hair bound with a leather thong. Iyoka reached behind his neck, freeing his glorious black man. Geraldo was ten to see her red tresses flow freely as he released them from their catch.

She stood before her mate, and she asked one question, "Do you want me?"

He swallowed and nodded, as she gently removed her top. Geraldo stopped her. "No, let me I wasn't to unwrap the treasures you have hidden."

Lifting her he carried her into his bedroom. Iyoka froze. This was the room her parents shared. Geraldo spoke, "They are gone. This is our space, our home." 

She smiled and whispered, "Love me, Geraldo, mark me, and make me yours."





Time for Truth Ch. 16



Welcome,

The vampires reach a decision and they meet with the council. Julianne and BJ go home. New matings occur.

This chapter is self-edited. I certainly hope the errors you find do not distract from the story. 

All characters in this story are above the age of consent.

Happy reading. IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 16



Javier knew something was wrong. He was furious. He wanted the names of the wolves that attacked Jonathan. He would deal with them personally. Theo told him the Alpha had handed out punishments. "Now because of this, Jonathan was going to Russia. Uncle Gernick might send him and Amie so they can learn how to be a vampire."

"Can you call Jonathan? I want to talk to him. " Javier asked. 

Theo's eyes teared up. "He won't answer me. Something happened yesterday and he disappeared from me. I've tried to call him but he is not answering."

"Theo can you go to his room. If he is home, maybe you can talk to him." Javier suggested. 

Shaking his head, no, Theo explained that the alpha told him and Jasmine to stay home. The vampires were meeting and it was not place for wolf cubs. Javier nodded. He needed to get to Jonathan. Jonathan was more than his friend. He was his family as well. He took a deep breath.

"Theo, have I ever told you to do something wrong?" He asked.

"No." Theo answered.

"I can't go there but you can. Just peak in and come right back. You need to see if he is OK." Javier insisted.

Theo vanished, and Javier was stuck waiting.





Time for Truth Ch. 16



Cassius faced him. "Gernick, I know why you decreed that no one could harm a werewolf, but it needs to change. The wolves are becoming vicious because they think we are defenseless. That is not true. We are amending the decree in this manner. No vampires can deliberately stalk, target, harm or destroy any were creature. They can only act in self defense. If any vampire is attacked by a werewolf and the intent of the animal is death, they can rebuke them with their superior strength. However, deathly force and only be used in life or death situations. 

The vampires gasped, as chatter spread throughout the chamber. Nickie's heart pounded. Will they go after Nina, the pack? she sent to her husband.

Gernick stood, as did Mical Dermic. "Cassius, the Loess Pack, the Gaines Pack, the Thane Pack and now the Cortez Pack are under our protection. No one will harm them."

Mical spoke, "As long as they don't attack any of us, they won't be harmed. However, we now have the right to defend ourselves." He looked around, "We are not as wealthy or strong as the Ivanovs or Valdemores, but we have suffered at the enforcement of this decree. My sons were brutalized by wolves, and they never tried to fight back. Other wolves chased off their attackers and I am grateful for them, but they should have been allowed to fight back Gernick."

Mical stopped. "We can't blame the wolves alone for the deaths, but they are not all innocent. When you give up your power to another group, they feel they can rule over you. You lose who you are. Our young have lost their way, it is time for us to stand strong again."

Francine Valdemores spoke. "I teach my children; we all do. They know that vampires are strong and powerful. We even have friends in the wolf pack in our region. They have encouraged our children to fight back. I know a decree was issued, but it is time to change it. At the time, vampires killed wolves for sport. One bite was all it took, but now with all we know we need to learn to coexist." She went silent. 

Shari sat with Nickie, as did Brenwan and Cantar. Samaria joined them and Nickie took her hand. She loved her sisters, but they didn't really understand. The pack was her family and they were now back in danger. A vampire could harm them and claim self-defense and nothing would be done.

Cassius called the group back to order. He had one more request. He had not mentioned it because with Krill being on the council, there would have been a meltdown. "I have one more request. Please let me finish before you respond. Gernick, Krill, we want to examine your children's blood." Krill roared as guards moved in place. Gernick flew to stand before Cassius. Two guards grabbed him. 

Clause was livid, as the chamber grew silent. Cassius, what gives? You never mentioned this before? he sent his mentor.Then Cassius finished. "Not just your children, but the wolf children as well."

"Why?" Krill demanded.

"You children and the wolf children are close. Even now, the wolves are in an uproar because the young are not there. Theo, came to see Jonathan yesterday. Did you know this? He returned home, but it would be inhumane to separate them. However, they have identical scents. We need to check their blood."

Kale spoke, "What are you looking for?"

Clause was stunned. For Kale to rise, then things were about to get serious,. Cassius explained. "The wolf children carry vampire traits; your children can hunt, fight, and seek out prey like wolves. We need to know if they have morphed into a new creature." The other vampires in attendance gasped. They looked on. 

Gernick was aware that the two boys shared a familial bond of brothers. He didn't need test to know this but before he could refuse, Nickie spoke. "Can the scientist take their blood from our home?" she asked. She just wanted to go. She needed to get back to her children.

"Yes," Cassius answered.

"We'll need to talk with Javon. He might not agree." She explained.

Cassius smiled. "Can I go with you to see him and explain?" he asked.

Nickie sighed. Gernick was not happy with this, but agreed that if Javon was willing, they could talk.

Soon the council convened and the vampires dispersed. Gernick and his family returned home. He called Javon. Nickie called Nina, who was so relieved. She told her of the council's decision and Nina was silent. "Nickie, I think they are right. No one group should have complete dominance over another. I'm glad they amended it." Nina whispered. Nickie hugged her and cried, She was glad too, because now her children could fight back. They didn't have to tolerate being bullied by anyone, not even their family. 

Later that day, a small band of vampires appeared at the compound to meet with Javon. Cassius bluntly explained why he wanted to test the blood of the children. Javon wanted to refuse, but Nina spoke. She and Nickie agreed. If the council tested them and found the children were not a threat, then they had to leave them alone. 

Nicolette and Nina walked to the Kyra's home to check on her. She had been released earlier and was on straight bed rest. She cried and hugged Nicolette when she walked in. Malcolm left, to give them some privacy. The girls were playing in their room.  

Nina, ever the mother hen, had to make sure her baby was OK. Nicolette was just as bad, she even offered to pay for servants to come, better yet she and Malcolm and the girls could come visit with them." Kyra laughed. She truly loved her family and her son was blessed to be a part of it. Soon the triplets ran in and Nina and Nicolette showered them with hugs. 

As they visited, Kyra had three more guest to stop by. Cantar, Christiana, and Corliss stopped by. The triplets were awed by Christiana's beauty and immediately pulled her to their room for playtime. All four girls were the same age and had plenty to talk about. Cantar learned that Kyra was having a difficult pregnancy. She too was now concerned, but knowing Malcolm, she knew Kyra was in good hands. 

The group visited and soon Kyra needed rest. Nina volunteered to keep the girls and the girls begged Cantar to let Christiana stay just one night. Cantar was hesitant. Christiana was not used to staying anywhere without them, but her daughter looked at her, her eyes glistening and whispered, "Momma, can I stay, just this once?"

Corliss answered, "Of course, be good of Nina and Thaddeus, OK?"

Christiana nodded and promised to be well behaved. Soon Nina and the girls walked home where and overexcited Jasmine greeted her nieces and their friend. Theo and Javier were together as usual talking about Jonathan and his next visit.

"Mom, can I stay with BJ tonight please?" Theo begged. It was too many girls and he didn't want to listen to them giggle all night. 

Thaddeus laughed and whispered , "I wish I could go with you."

Meanwhile, Kyra was reclining in the sofa when Malcolm returned. "Hey, babe. I brought chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream," he whispered.

Kyra laughed. "Malcolm Brandt, I love you more than the stars in the sky." She

Kyra Brandt, you are my everything." He whispered as he kissed her and held her close. The baby didn't like being crushed , so he kicked. Malcolm laughed and then kissed her tummy, sending a shaft of love to their son. 





Time for Truth Ch. 16



David smiled. "My love, I can never deny you." 

Nadiya moved to her hands and knees. "Shift," she whispered.

David complied and within seconds his wolf once again mounted their mate. He took his time this time. Before things were urgent, this time, he wanted to savor actually loving his woman. However, Nadiya's wolf was impatient, David had marked her and she needed to mark him. "Ummmm David" she moaned.

"David, please." She moaned. David drove into her forcibly, pushing her over the edge. Then shifting he somehow switched positions where Nadiya bit into his shoulder and collar, marking him forever as hers. He climaxed inside his woman, as he too bit her once more. Their wolves howled and were joined by a chorus if howls as the rest of the pack joined in to celebrate their joining.

Nadiya's heart pounded. David was an amazing lover. She knew he would be. She wanted him again, but first they both needed sleep. David held his mate close, thanking Luna for such a wonderful woman. Nadiya smiled. Then she laughed, "Um Dave, what happened to you finding Mr. Wonderful for me."

David smiled, "Baby, I am your Mr. Wonderful." Then he kissed her as they soon drifted off into a deep slumber.

In Louisiana, Marisol awoke in her newly claimed mates arms. Her wolf was overjoyed to finally have claimed her mate. She decided to share her news wither family and realized that her bond with Alpha Javon and Alpha Madam Elise was gone. She had new alphas. Grandpa Lakota and Grandma were her new alphas. She was now a member of the Gaines Pack. Wildwood would be her home now.

Marisol sighed. Then she felt love. She felt so much love that she gasped. Sweetheart, welcome. Don't worry, Loess Falls will always be home for you to. Grandma Margaret sent. Marisol sighed and looked at her slumbering mate. She was home. She was happy. For the first time in a long time, she was no longer afraid.

Elise and Javon awoke, and they knew. They had just lost another pack member to another pack. Although Marisol was with Lakota, she was always welcomed back home. Javon sighed when he felt a new bond take root. He faced Elsie and smiled. They were happy to welcome Ares mate, Zoe, into the Loess Falls pack. 

Benny had not mated with Saphirra yet, but Javon suspected they would mate soon.





Time for Truth Ch. 17



Welcome,

We have reached the end of our journey. This is the final chapter. Several matings occur and life goes on. I hope you enjoy the chapter. Please share your thoughts.

This chapter is self-edited. I certainly hope the errors you find do not distract from the story. 

All characters in this story are above the age of consent.

Happy reading. 

IR2R





Time for Truth Ch. 17



When she returned Nadiya made coffee. David awoke and missed his mate. He could not believe that he was now a mated male. His wolf was overjoyed and his human was awed. He hugged Nadiya close and thanked her again for choosing him.

"Babe, we need to go out today. We need to spend time with the pack." Nadia whispered.

David, Nadiya, come see me today.  Iyoka sent. She wanted to see her friend and make sure he was fine. Through the alpha bond, she knew he was better, but she wanted to see for herself.

Yes, Madam Alpha, David replied he laughed.

After they ate and before Nadiya met with Madison, the two walked to the alpha home to see Iyoka. They talked and realized that they survived. They were safe and happy now. 

Soon, Nadiya and David left, and Iyoka called and checked on Amari. Amari was due to give birth soon. She was excited for Kyra when she gave birth a few days ago to her son, and she wanted to see the baby. She knew Geraldo would let her go visit, and this weekend she was going.

Nadiya reported to Madison's office and was greeted warmly. Madison told her things had changed, and the women were no longer expected to be subservient. She asked her to fill the post of Theta. Nadiya was floored. David was theta and she a lowly Omega, but now they had the same rank. She received her duties and called David. David sent her a mental hug and promised to talk with her later. He was meeting with the betas. He was promoted to high Theta with the right to advance to junior beta in the future.

Geraldo spent his day in the office reestablishing relationship amongst those in the business community. As he worked, the secretary told him he had a guest. Soon a female entered, and Geraldo was floored. He had not seen her in years, He knew she was coming to help Marisol, but he was so excited to see his younger sister, Dr. Adrianna Cortez.

"Adrianna, welcome. Rosita called and said you were headed here. How long can you stay?' He asked.

"I'm actually headed back to Mexico, but I had to see my big brother, Alpha Geraldo," she teased. "I want you to take me to meet my new sister." She demanded. Geraldo alerted Iyoka immediately. He drove home and the two women greeted each other like long lost friends. Iyoka was so grateful to this woman; Julianne told her how she helped Marisol and Rosita. Since she visited Loess falls, Javier was truly impressed with his aunt the psychologist.

Adrianna only stayed a few days, but Iyoka made her promise to visit again and often. The two women were fast friends and Adrianna was in awe of her new sister. She was just what her older brother needed. Iyoka convinced her to stay for a couple of days and she met many members of the pack. 

The pack members were impressed, and Adrianna was certain that they would recover and thrive. With leaders like Geraldo and Iyoka, they had the best chances. Eventually, Adrianna went home and Geraldo once again thanked her for helping his daughter. She smiled, "She s my niece. I am just happy to be in her life. All of your children are wonderful, Big Brother. They are a true testament of strength and grace." She concluded. Geraldo smiled and hugged her before she drove off, back home to Mexico.

Geraldo spent time alone with his mate after his sister left. They were content. He smiled as he felt a sight tug on their bond. "You know, Amari should be giving birth soon. Maybe you should drive over to Texas." Iyoka laughed, and the next day she returned to Loess Falls to see her daughter. Amari hugged her mother, even though she was huge with their son. Iyoka picked the best weekend because that night Amari went into labor and she was with her when her son was born. Geraldo rushed over, and he too welcomed his new grandson. 

He declared Stanley Loess, perfect. Kyra was happy for her cousin and his mate. There two boys were the same age and she was sure they would grow up and get into everything together. Malcolm held their son as their daughters tried to find a way to have an all girl sleepover with Christiana. 

Soon, everyone settled and Iyoka and Geraldo stayed at the alpha home. Javon welcomed his old friend back and the two men talked. Geraldo would forever be grateful to the Loess Pack alpha. He was a fair, honest and just man. The vampires came by and Nicolette looked at Iyoka strangely, then she smiled at Geraldo.

"You don't waste any time do you?" She teased. "Congratulations, dad."

Geraldo gasped, "What? Are you sure?" Iyoka was stunned. It was so soon, only a few months had passed since they mated. She had felt a bit tired, but thought nothing of it.

"You can hear their heartbeats. Listen." Nicolette replied. Geraldo pulled Iyoka to him. He kneeled before her and pressed his hear and then he smiled. The faint sound of two heartbeats could be heard. 

Geraldo gasped and lifted his mate. He held her close and whispered, "Thank you, Iyoka. Thank you for giving me a second chance. I love you."

With tears shimmering, Iyoka whispered, "I love you too, Geraldo. I love you so much."

Amari found out and was so happy for her mother. She would finally have the chance to truly be happy and have the family she deserved. Soon everyone left, leaving her, Vince alone with their son. The small family held each other and thanked Luna for protecting them and bringing them together.

The pack was excited. Several new pups had been born. Alpha Son Vince's pup was the last one in this birthing cycle. Javon and Elise were most excited. This was their first grand-pup, so they were on top of everything. They insisted that Amari and Vince move back to the Alpha home until the babies were older. 

Nina and Thaddeus stopped by Kyra's home. She seemed to have recovered from the birth of her son, but Nina was always worried and after Amari gave birth, she needed to check on her baby as well. Kyra welcomed her Mom and step dad. The girls were in their room and Nina peeked in. Kyra was fine and the baby was safe in his father arms. The baby was delivered early, but he was fine. After she had the baby, Kyra healed. They did not stay long and headed home where Thaddeus just held her close. He thanked Luna everyday for creating her for him.

After her Mom left, Kyra felt tired, so she lay down. Malcolm was changing his son. Kyra was sleeping and he took care of the baby so she could rest. Malcolm felt he was the luckiest wolf alive. As far as he was concerned, their family was complete.

Celia and Blaine were home with their children. Nicki and Rosita had gone to the movies with a group of friends and Blaine was on Dad watch. Celia laughed. Her baby girl was growing into a beautiful young lady. She was out with her friends, and Dad had to learn to let go. Celia hugged her mate and reminded him that when she was Nicki's age, he took great pride in taunting her. That served to make her mate more vigilant, because he knew exactly why he annoyed her mother. Celia laughed and prepared her self to deal with an overprotective Dad and overzealous uncle.





Time for Truth



The celebrations lasted into the night. Soon the kids had a flight out and needed rest, so everyone bid each other good night and went home. Several of the children didn't want to separate and vampire child and were cub alike begged to stay with their friend. Their parents declined, but assured the little ones that they'd get together at a later time.