Mainlee choked on her food, "What?"

Lindsey, with a puzzled expression, repeated it.

Mainlee shook her head, What am I going to say? "I, um, don't know what to say."

"Who's your leader?" Finn asked.

"Right now, as it stands, were in the market for a new one," Mainlee said, choosing her words carefully, she didn't want to sound suspicious.

Everyone was staring at her and Laura murmured, "What happened?"

"Um, our leader…" Mainlee glanced at a Gone with the Wind book lying on the table. "Scarlett, who was our leader. She died."

Everyone nodded sadly, and murmured their apologizes. Mainlee let out a sigh of relief and Patrick patted her arm, "How is your pack feeling?"

Mainlee swallowed a piece of steak before answering, "They're okay." Looking at the faces staring back at her this was clearly an unacceptable answer. "I mean, they're very sad. They are just trying to concentrate on a new leader right now."

Lindsey nodded, "That's understandable. The pack needs a leader."

"Some of our…Elders think we need to establish a leader fast. Then we can mourn."

Justin raised his eyebrows, "Elders?"

"Yeah," Mainlee said slowly, "You know the old wolves…"

His mouth curled into a smile, "I know. It's just that usually the next in line will become the new leader. I thought every pack did that." Mainlee saw that Furman was nodding, agreeing with his son.

"Well, there's a big conflict between two wolves," Mainlee lied, quickly thinking, "Were a very peaceful pack, we don't believe in fighting until the death."

Laura smiled, "How nice."

"Yes, I like that about my pack. This way, we have more wolves around instead of one dying. Two powerful wolves is better than one." Mainlee hated lying to them, but she didn't know what else to do.

Mainlee noticed that Lindsey had her eyes narrowed; Can she tell I'm lying? Mainlee hoped she didn't.

"Your pack seems very interesting Mainlee," Lindsey said, Mainlee sensed a change in her voice, it wasn't angry but Mainlee couldn't tell what it was.

Finn nodded, "It might be nice to meet these wolves." He turned to Lindsey, "What do you think, babe?"

"I think that would be interesting," Lindsey said.

Mainlee's heart skipped a beat. Great, not only do I have a pack with a dead leader and fake conflicts, but they're now the pack To Meet.

"Where is the packs home?" Patrick asked, very interested in meeting Mainlee's pack it seemed.

Before Mainlee could tell another lie, her cell phone beeped. "I'm sorry," she said, quickly standing up, "I need to check this." She quickly scampered out of the room, into the kitchen.

Mainlee flipped pulled out her Blackberry to see a message from an unknown number. Mainlee decided to call it, and find out who it was. She pressed call and it started to ring.

"Hello?" Oscar's voice sounded on the other side of the phone, "I just sent you a text."

"Okay. I didn't know who it was." Mainlee paused, "Wait, how did you get my number?"

Oscar laughed, "The first night we met, I put your number into mine."

"Screams stalker just a bit." Mainlee said.

"What can I say?" Oscar chuckled. "Anyways, I wanted to know when you're coming over."

Mainlee peered into the living room, everyone was laughing at something Lindsey had said. Mainlee knew if she returned she would have to answer more questions about her pack…Which was something she defiantly had to avoid. Mainlee noticed Patrick was getting up. "Now," Mainlee said quickly. "I'm on my way."

"Good," Oscar said and Mainlee hung up right as Patrick walked into the kitchen.

"You okay?" He asked, wrapping his arms around her and smiling.

Mainlee looked down, feeling guilty. "No, I need to go. I'm really sorry." She pulled out of his arms and walked into the living room and announced that she was leaving. "Pack emergency."

Mainlee said her thanks and handed her dishes to a very put out Patrick. Mainlee wanted to reassure him, "Can I call you later?"

He slowly nodded and they exchanged numbers. Mainlee quickly kissed him on the cheek and walked out of the room, the families gaze on her. Mainlee sat in her Jaguar for a minute, trying to catch her breath.

Mainlee put the key into the ignition when she heard a knock on her window. She looked over, startled, to see Lindsey smiling through the window.

Mainlee rolled it down. "Hey."

"Hey," Lindsey said, "I hope I didn't put you in an awkward situation back there, you seemed really upset."

"It's okay," Mainlee said, wanting to drive away.

"Look Mainlee, I know you lied back there." Mainlee looked at her, afraid, but Lindsey chuckled, "I'm really good at reading people."

"Do you think the family knows?"

"No, I don't think so." Lindsey slipped a piece of paper in her lap, "Come talk to me. I'm a good listener. I really want to hear your story." She walked away, but she stopped and turned around. She leaned in the window again and whispered, "Both boys absolutely adore you. You must be some sort of witch; you've cast a spell over them." She walked back into the house, leaving Mainlee gawking after her.

Mainlee sighed, pulling out of the driveway, she was a witch. With a capital B. Mainlee's new car quietly rumbled along the nearly dark streets. She drove slowly; too busy thinking to really concentrate on the road.

Mainlee looked at the clock, it said seven o'clock. How did it get so late?

Mainlee pulled into Oscar's driveway, next to his big truck. Is he has enough money to buy me this car, why doesn't he get rid of that gross thing?

She walked up the curved sidewalk, not bothering the knock the door and strode in. Dustin and Colton sat in the living room, at the bar, quietly talking and sipping beers.

"Well looky here Colton," Dustin said, as Mainlee crossed the room towards them. "Miss Prissy."

Mainlee ignored that comment and smiled at Colton, "Hey." She said, taking a seat by him, spinning the chair back and forth.

"So what's new babycakes?" Dustin said, wrapping his arm around her.

"Excuse me?" Mainlee said, pulling his arm off her.

"Babycakes." He licked his lips. Mainlee couldn't decide who was worse Oscar…or Dustin. At least Oscar tried to make her like him.

Mainlee turned to Colton, but he just shrugged, "Sorry." He muttered.

Mainlee slid off the chair, careful not to let her dress slide up. As she was bending down to fix it she felt a pinch on her butt. She spun around furious, to see Dustin grinning at her. "What do you think you're doing?" She hissed.

"Nothing."

Mainlee stiffened, "Where's Oscar?"

Colton shrugged, "Gone. He said he had to buy something."

"You look sexy Mainlee," Dustin slurred.

"Are you drunk?" Mainlee asked, a bit of concern in her voice.

"Of course!" He chirped.

"How many beers has he had, Colton?"

"I'm not sure, he sort of showed up here already like this."

"God boys are so annoying." Dustin slumped over and fell on Mainlee. Thankfully, she was able to steady him. "Are there any guest bedrooms here?" Colton nodded. "Help me and carry him to one, he needs to rest."

Colton nodded and with a grunt heaved Dustin over his shoulder and Mainlee followed him as he climbed the stairs. When they reached the top, Colton turned to the left and went into the first room. There was a queen size bed and a giant bookshelf on the left side of the room. As Colton set Dustin on the bed, Mainlee peered at the books. Shakespeare, she noted. At least Oscar has class.

"What now Mainlee?" Colton asked, making Mainlee turn around.

"Will you get a glass of water?" Colton nodded and exited the room. Mainlee sat on the edge of the bed, not wanting to get near him, just in case he woke up.

"Here you go!" Colton handed Mainlee a glass of water and she walked over to Dustin's head. She gently shook him, "Wake up!"

Dustin shot up, bewildered which made Mainlee laugh. "It's just me!" She said, "Here, drink some water." She handed him the glass, and he made some weird noise, which Mainlee took as a thank you.

Dustin downed the water and turned to Mainlee. And then he threw up all over her dress.

Mainlee turned off the hot water and climbed out of the shower. After Dustin through up all over here, Colton showed her how to work the shower and left some of Oscar's clothes for her to change into. She slipped in the extremely large clothes, but they were nice and warm and Mainlee felt much better.

She tiptoed into Dustin's room, to make sure he was okay. He was breathing heavily, but steady, so she let him be and she walked down the stairs.

She turned into the living room, expecting to find Colton, but Oscar was sitting on the floor, under the giant TV starting a fire.

"Where are earth did that come from?" Mainlee asked, clueless on how the fireplace got there.

Oscar talked, still working on the fire, "The wall slides in front of it. Don't ask me why, must be some decorating trick."

Mainlee nodded and sat down on the couch, watching Oscar's strong back, "Dustin is up stairs, passed out."

He grunted in return, heaving wood into the fireplace, "Colton told me."

"Where did he go?"

"I sent him home, that boy needs some rest." Oscar pulled out matches, from his back pocket. Whoa, I guess all guys just love this kind of thing.

"He seemed fine to me." Mainlee shifted, tucking her legs under her.

"HE always does. He has a hard life is all." I can't believe I'm discussing this with him; he doesn't seem like the gossip queen.

"Don't we all."

As soon as she said this, Oscar turned to her and stared deep into her eyes. He almost seemed at a loss for words. Mainlee loved his eyes, I could get used to this…Mainlee thought to herself, watching as Oscar slowly stood up. Oscar isn't to bad, considering.

Oscar crossed the room and entered the kitchen, leaving Mainlee staring after him. He soon emerged with two glasses of red wine, he handed one to her, then sat down next to her.

"Giving alcohol to a minor?" Mainlee smiled as she took a slow sip, "I hear that's illegal."

Oscar laughed, holding up his glass, "To us."

Mainlee didn't say anything, but raised her glass to his. They both took a sip and Mainlee set hers down on the side table, as did Oscar, reaching across in front of her. Mainlee noticed his muscles, slightly gleaming with sweat. "Trying to show off?" Mainlee asked leaning back against the couch, knowing Oscars next move.

Just like she predicted, Oscar winked and flexed his muscles, then draped his arm around her. "Oh yeah, baby."

Mainlee rolled her eyes, careful not to make eye contact. She could feel Oscar staring at her.

"You go through my closet?" Oscar said, trying to make conversation.

"You wish. Your little henchmen threw up all over me," Mainlee picked up her glass of wine, "And my dress."

"Ah. I hope there being nice to you," the way Oscar said this, made Mainlee turn and look at him. Mainlee couldn't decide how he meant this.

"They're…Very….Wolf like."

"Possessive, strong, and arrogant." Oscar said, laughing.

"Mostly Dustin, Colton's not so bad. He's a real sweetie." Mainlee noticed a flash of anger? Jealousy? In Oscars eyes, but she couldn't decided which.

"So what do you guys talk about?" Oscar said coolly, but Mainlee could tell he was dying to know.

"Considering the fact I haven't known them for too long, not much. I'm just stuck in a rut."

Apparently, this was a bad thing to say.

Oscar took his arm off her shoulders, "What's that supposed to mean?"

Mainlee shrugged, looking away again. "I was thrown into this without my say-so. It hasn't been all fin and games."

Oscar narrowed his eyes, for what seemed like the millionth time. "Being a wolf isn't fun and games."

"So I've learned. I meant, I didn't have a choice about me turning into a wolf."

"I know tons of girls who'd love to be you, you know."

Mainlee bristled with anger, "Really? They'd love to be mauled by a complete stranger, to be turned into a spy against her new found friends. That sounds like a dream life to me."

Oscar crossed his arms, "We all have problems."

"That's your comeback?" Mainlee scoffed, "You're the dickhead that got me into this mess in the first place. My life was great without you."

Oscar stood up, "God Mainlee, I just wish you'd quit complaining."

Mainlee stood up, crossing her arms now, "It's kind of hard to do with someone as bi-polar as you."

Oscar glared down at her, "Your bipolar too."

Mainlee threw up her arms in frustration, "Then I guess this makes us the perfect match, doesn't it?" She stalked towards the fire, turning her back to Oscar.

"Mainlee…" Oscar groaned.

Mainlee spun around, "What?" She spat out, knowing she had blown things out of proportion, but she couldn't help herself.

"I don't want to fight you."

"SO am I to believe the guy who was viciously cruel to me is now some sweet romantic one?"

Oscar put his hand to his forehead in frustration, clearing tired from their fight. "Yes, that's exactly what you're supposed to believe. I can't help it, okay? I got carried away that night, plus you're amazing. I couldn't help myself." He grinned shyly, as a peace offering.

Mainlee decided it was better than fighting. "Fine. But this doesn't mean this fight isn't over."

Oscar ran his hand through his hair awkwardly. "Want to go for a run?"

Mainlee raised her eyebrows in surprise, "A run?"

Oscar nodded, gesturing to the backyard, "It's night. I can help you change. It's something I used to do with my mom."

Mainlee considered this for a minute, weighing her options. She slowly nodded, "Let's do it."

Oscar smiled and Mainlee let him lead her to the backyard. As soon as they exited the house, Mainlee saw the moon, and started to shake. Oscar gripped her hand more firmly, "Breath in the moonlight."

"Is that possible?" Mainlee said through clenched teeth, her muscles started spazzing, and she started to losing breath.

"Think of something good."

Patrick filled Mainlee's thoughts and the shaking ceased. Mainlee felt her limbs growing longer, her pelt growing warmer. She let Patrick control her mind while she started inching closer to the ground, wolf size.

Mainlee let go of Oscar's hand and she breathed in the moonlight. Just like that, it was over. Mainlee didn't feel any pain, but pictures of Patrick still flooded her mind, Oscar broke into her thoughts, "What are you thinking?"

Mainlee glanced at him, he was already changed, and she stared deep into his yellow eyes. They pierced into her like daggers. Mainlee shrugged, it felt weird, with her wolf shoulders. "Nothing, let's go."

Oscar took off, speeding into the woods, Mainlee, closing on his heels. She loved the feel of the woods spinning past her. She could feel the moonlight on her back, willing her to run faster. The trees rustled, shaking their hellos as they rushed back. Mainlee could tell other animals were watching, hidden in the brush, for them to pass. Mainlee felt powerful, she wished this feeling could last forever.

Oscar slowed down to a trot as they reached a clearing, a wide field overlooking a small stream. The moon shone brightly over the river, hitting the shining pebbles, shooting sparks of lights across the soft grass. A lone tree hung loosely over the river, slightly shaking in the wind. He stopped when they reached the peak of the hill, turning to face Mainlee. "This is where I like to come every night. It calms me, I guess."

Mainlee stared mesmerized, "I can see why."

She descended the hill, trotting to the lone tree, it was a oak. Strong. Powerful. Exactly how Mainlee felt.

Mainlee felt Oscar brush against her as he walked up beside her. Mainlee padded ahead, and peered in the water. She stared at her reflection, her silvery head held high. Her massive paws gently touching the cool, crisp water. She could get used to this.

Mainlee turned back to Oscar, who was lying down in the grass, watching her. Again, Mainlee felt the piercing of his eyes, but she layed down beside him.

"I expect you to bring me back here," Mainlee said, breaking the silence.

"It would be my honor." Oscar said, his wolf eyes, brightening a bit. "Does this mean you'll be staying at my house?"

Mainlee gave him the most motherly look she could conjure, "Oscar, darling, that is not something you ask a lady." She rolled her eyes playfully.

Oscars growled, standing up and circling her, "Seeing you as a wolf is making me horny." He leaped on top of her, and they rolled together in the grass.

Mainlee had trouble breathing, she was laughing so hard, "Oscar!" She giggled, flipping him over so she was standing over him.

He waggled his wolf eyebrows, his sharp teeth glinting. "I like this. But I prefer to be on top." He tackled her again, which set them rolling on the ground again.

Mainlee felt herself changing, and as they stopped rolling, they were back to being humans. She sat up quickly, Oscar lying on his back, breathing hard. Mainlee peered at her hands, "Whoa. How did that happen?"

"It just does, we can change at the snap of a finger if we want." He rested his hands under his head. Mainlee looked down at him, he looked sexy and strong, lying in the grass. Not a care in the world.

Mainlee layed back down, resting her head on Oscar's strong chest. This feels good, it feels comfortable. I can have this every night if I want. Suddenly Patrick popped into her mind, and guilt swept over Mainlee. She sat up, suddenly feeling awkward for liking the moment so much.

"You okay Mainlee?" Oscar sat up beside her, worry caressing his eyes.

"It's just…hard." It was the only Mainlee could muster without spilling the fact that Patrick was taking her thoughts.

"I know," Oscar whispered, leaning in, close to her face.

Mainlee titled her head, so she could face Oscar. His face was filled with worry and something that closely resembled love. It was good enough for Mainlee, she leaned in and started to kiss him. She felt his warm tongue reach her mouth, and she cupped his face with her hands, pulling him down on top of her.

"Mainlee?" Oscar and Mainlee quickly spun apart, turning around to see Patrick and Justin standing a few feet away.

Mainlee jumped up. She nervously brushed off the strands of grass. "Um, what are you doing here?" Mainlee felt Oscar leap up to her side, looking over her shoulder.

"I was just making rounds for my pack, and I saw you…" Patrick awkwardly rubbed his neck.

Justin stood behind him, narrowing his eyes at Oscar. "Who are you?"

Mainlee could feel Oscar sliding his arm around her waist, "I'm Oscar." His voice was slow and angry, just barely away from a growl.

"So you guys know each other well then?" Patrick asked, looking at Mainlee.

"Um, yeah. We do."

"Cause…I just thought, that we, um, had something."

"We do!" Mainlee burst, she sensed Oscar stiffen, and she could hear a faint growling rising in his chest, "Or… We did."

"Why don't you just leave, boy." Oscar growled. "Mainlee is safe with me."

"I don't really think that's true." Patrick said, his confidence rising, "Is he in your pack, Mainlee?"

Mainlee nodded, staring at the ground, not daring to make eye contact with him.

"So everything you told us at dinner is a lie?" Now Mainlee could hear agitation in his voice.

She slowly nodded, and he said, "Who is this guy? Is he with those two jerks at school?"

Mainlee felt Oscar bristle, but she held him back, "Yes. It is, I'm sorry I couldn't tell you the truth."

"I doubt that." Patrick's voice was angry, "Is everything you told us a lie?"

Mainlee looked up, "No! I, just, it's complicated."

Patrick folded his arms against his chest, "Then tell me now."

"I…I was just recently bit, I'm not full wolf."

Patrick looked at her, startled, "Did he bite you?"

"Yes."

Patrick just nodded, staring immensely at Mainlee, "Why didn't you tell me? I could have helped you."

"I know that..I just, I'm confused." Mainlee felt tears drifting down her cheeks. "I'm sorry." She mumbled.

Oscar stepped out in front of her, rolling up his sleeves, "Leave her alone."

Patrick stared at him, fists clenched, "I bet Mainlee didn't even want you to bite her. I bet your holding her back. You're the reason she won't trust me."

Oscar leaped at Patrick, turning into wolf midair. Patrick quickly turned too, but not before Oscar was on top of him, scratching at his back. Justin changed too, ripping Oscar off of Patrick.

Mainlee fell to the ground, "Stop it!" She screamed. "Stop!"

Justin, Patrick, and Oscar continued to fight, and didn't notice when Mainlee tumbled into darkness. She fell into a hole of thundering paws and the fierce sounds of the fight.