Well, then. We're really moving along! I love this chapter. One reviewer, a guest, was asking the name of Xavier's kid. I honestly didn't think about it when I wrote that one line. He was never given a name in my head. But if it comes up, I'll let ya know! Really, if any of you have questions, don't hesitate to ask. I will answer them if I can! And some of you are already taking guess about what's going to happen and who is who. Please keep your guesses vague! That's all I ask. Of course, I'm not going to tell you if you're right or not because...well, I'm just not like that. Otherwise, why write it?

*Disclaimer*

Please Enjoy!

TriciaPOV

Standing outside the rez high school with a group of wolves and the principal, I was aware of all the eyes on us. The students walked by us slowly, heads bent, whispering. Will was standing with Jacob, and the girls talked and giggled over them, Brayden, and Henry. Somehow, they must have known Adam and Derek were off limits. And since my girls didn't go to public schools, they didn't really know who I was, so the guys had a few choice words about me. Boosted a woman's confidence when teenage boys with raging hormones thought you were hot. Smirking, I scanned the area. Ever since I'd been infected, I ran patrols and did guard duty when necessary when Embry was at work and the girls were at school.

"I'm sorry, Mr. Black, but I just cannot allow that on my campus."

"And who's going to complain?" Jacob countered. "The tribe? They've been begging for a patrol around the school to keep their kids in class. How high have test scores gone since we've been watching over my son?"

The principal crossed her arms over her stomach. "That is not the point, Mr. Black. I understand your position and who you are to this tribe. But your wolves could also cause a distraction that my students do not need."

Jacob shook his head. "With all due respect, that is the point. Whatever higher powers you have look to the principal as to why test scores have gone high or low and you know it. My wolves will stay out of sight in the woods. Except Brayden. He stays with Will. Ms. Channing, this is something you can't afford not to do."

The woman, in her mid-twenties, sighed and looked around at all of us. Then she threw her hands up. "Fine. The woods are the pack's territory anyway. I can't stop that. And Mr. Clearwater can stay with William. He proved himself rather useful last week."

"And punishment?" Jacob asked.

She swallowed hard and looked to Will. "Not this time. Nor for your sister, but no more leaving the school."

Will looked to his father with a little panic in his eyes.

Jacob shook his head. "We can't promise that, Ms. Channing. You obviously know about the pack, so you need to understand that right now, his condition is a little fragile. You didn't have this problem with Brayden because he had a two week Christmas break to learn. Will doesn't have that."

"And the other children who may join the pack?"

Jacob just looked at her.

Now she was irritated, hands on her hips. "You are asking me," she said tightly, "to show favoritism to you and yours."

"It's not favoritism if we're doing this to protect the other students. If we didn't care, then I wouldn't be here pleading the case. My son is a good student. He won't leave unless absolutely necessary, and I think you know that. As for Jules, she takes care of her brothers, but I will speak with her about leaving. From now on, Brayden should be able to take care of my son. I'm not asking for favoritism. I'm asking for loopholes in the rules. Please."

She looked from him to Will. "Okay, I'll agree to that, but if it happens, you are to report to me the moment you set foot back on campus."

Will nodded. "Yes, ma'am."

She nodded toward the building. "Go on or you'll be late."

He said his goodbyes to us as did Brayden before they disappeared into the crowd of students.

"Thank you," Jacob said.

The woman shook her head. "Don't thank me. I'm doing this for my students, not you."

"Whatever your reason, it's still appreciated."

Without another word, she walked off, telling the crowd to break it up and get to class. Kind of made me glad that my girls were taught by the wolves.

Jacob turned to us. "Alright. Leah, Tricia, I'd like for you to stay closest to the school. She might be a little more lenient around other women. Henry, tell your guys to split up to be on either side of the school in the woods. Anything happens, howl. Even though Will's anger has calmed, it could get reignited with all these kids. We all clear?"

The group all exchanged glances before nodding.

"Tricia, you sure you're okay to do this?"

The scratches Will had given me had disappeared, leaving my skin milky white once more. Smiling, I nodded. "I'm great. Embry wouldn't have let me volunteer if I wasn't."

The best thing about him was that he didn't push. He took me at my word. Leah and I split up to walk circuits around the school. With all the stares, something told me it was going to be a long day.

WillPOV

I breathed through the sensation of all the stares. There was a pit of nervousness that I knew wasn't me. The wolf inside me didn't like the attention.

"Easy," Brayden breathed beside me.

"I know. We're good."

Eventually, we made it to my locker. When I opened it and looked inside, I had to check to make sure it was my locker. It was. Insides, slid through the slots were several notes. All addressed to me with perfume and lip gloss. I shared a confused glance with Brayden. He picked one up, opened it and read it.

As he read, his eyebrows slowly ascended to his hairline. "Pretty sure you have some admirers now."

"What are you talking about?"

He handed me the note. My reaction was the same as his. I looked at the thirty or so notes. "Holy crap."

"Hi, Will." A girl I only knew by name, Monica, walked by us. She waved her fingers and winked at me.

I blinked in confusion as she passed us. Brayden just laughed and patted my shoulder. "It seems you're safe here." He excused himself to the bathroom, leaving me alone in the hallway with a bunch of girls watching me. The guys just nodded in my direction respectfully. In a confused daze, I filled up my backpack with the stuff I needed for the first half of the day. Brayden hadn't come back yet probably having gotten caught by a girl or two. I was going to be late waiting for him so I decided to go ahead to class. It was just around the corner on the next hallway. I should be okay.

As I made my way down the hall, one of the guys called out, "Hey, Black! Remind me never to piss you off, huh?"

The hall laughed, and I turned around. It was Jason, the kid I'd almost hit that day. He was smiling with good humor and winked, hanging his arm around his girlfriend. Smiling just a little, I nodded. As the hall cheered, the tension broken, I shook my head and turned to walk down the hall my class was on. Since I was now taller than the rest of the school, I could see Hunter's blonde hair peeking out from her own locker. Deciding to grab the moment with her, I pushed through the other students to lean against the wall beside her locker, which was the last one on the row and on the top. She was digging through her bag.

I cleared my throat.

She barely glanced in my direction. "Oh, hey, Will."

"Hey. I was, uh, hoping we could talk."

She snorted. "Pretty sure you made it clear how you felt about being around me."

I sighed. "Look, I'm sorry about how I treated you last week. I shouldn't have said those things. Can we maybe talk after school? At the diner in town? Just you and me."

She grumbled irritably. "I would love to, but I cannot find my calculator."

Frowning at her logic, I dug into my backpack. "Use mine. I can get it from you at government or lunch. Math is my last class."

Looking up, she stared at the calculator in my hand. Then met my gaze.

Something inside me moved but my lungs stopped working. Her eyes were bright green today and the most beautiful I'd ever seen. I couldn't breathing staring at the girl in front of me. The world became obsolete, thoroughly unimportant. A part of my mind was screaming that this wasn't right, that something was wrong. That this shouldn't be happening with her. But the rest of me just didn't care. My entire felt the contact where she took the calculator from me.

It took me a moment to realize that her expression had become guarded and wary. "Will? Are you alright?"

I closed my eyes, concentrating on the sound of her voice.

No!

Shaking my head, I avoided looking at her. I cleared my throat. "Yeah, I'm good. See you later," I rushed out and practically yelled before taking off to my class.

"Will!" she yelled after me, but I ignored her.

By the time I flung myself into my seat, I was hyperventilating and convinced my heart was about to spill out my mouth. Pressing my fists to my eyes, I just kept my body tense, trying to forget what had just happened.

No, no, no, no…This couldn't be happening. Not with her!

"Will. Will!" a voice I recognized hissed.

Moving one hand, I opened that eye to see Brayden kneeling next to my desk. Class hadn't started yet, but the room was full, the teacher at her desk.

"Are you okay?"

I nodded, then shook my head. Then shrugged.

He glanced at the teacher. "Do I need to get you out of here?"

Taking a deep breath, I forced myself calm. I was not going to cause another scene. It just wasn't going to happen. What had just happened to me wasn't a big deal. Okay, so maybe it was, but that didn't change the fact that Hunter was under suspicion and needed to be kept close to the group. I had to do this. It was my job as future alpha to see to any and all threats. My imprinting on Hunter wasn't going to change the fact that something was off about her. I had to remain objective. The plus side was that I was now whole-heartedly attracted to her. It would make being charming a bit easier.

"Will?"

I shook my head. "No, I'm okay. Just wait outside for me."

"You're sure?"

"Not really, but I'm not going to put Ms. Channing through this crap because I can't handle shit. Just let me have some normal, okay?"

He stood up. "Alright. I'll be outside."

The moment the door closed behind him, the bell rang.

"Mr. Black?"

Scrubbing my face, I took a deep breath and lowered my hands. "Yes, ma'am?"

"Are you alright?"

"Yes, ma'am."

She nodded, taking me at my word, and started class.

This was going to be a really long day.

JPOV

I loved days off during the week. Got to sleep in and have some alone time with the wife. Perfect. After I'd dropped Will off and made sure he was taken care of, I'd come back here and crawled back in bed with Nessie.

"I can't believe Will turns eighteen this week," Ness said from where she was resting on my chest. Now that the kids were older and knew better than to come into our room without announcing themselves, we could sleep naked again. Thank goodness. With my body temp, wearing clothes to bed had nearly killed me.

I cringed. "Please don't say that. I already feel old as dirt."

She chuckled. "It's true, though. Our boy will be eighteen."

I hugged her tighter to my side. "What are we gonna do this year?"

She shrugged. "Well, he's been great and he phased. We could get him a car."

Leaning back so I could see her face, I gave her a look.

"What? He's also graduating this year. I think he deserves it."

"Of course you do. He's a momma's boy."

Going up on her elbow, she looked down at me. "You don't think he does? I thought we agreed we'd get them cars? They can't all use the truck and the SUV. Or your bike."

Reaching up, I pushed her hair over her shoulder. "Yes, he deserves it and yes we agreed. But you know he's going to want a bike instead of a car, right?"

"That's a no, plain and simple. But he does love Uncle Emmett's Jeep."

"That's true."

She slapped my chest as her eye brightened. "I know. What don't you have a father/son thing and go car shopping this weekend? He'd love that. I know he'd love some time alone with you."

I smiled up at her. "Yeah, that does sound good. I'll ask him when he gets home. But until then…" I rolled her so that she was under me. "I really wanted to enjoy my time alone with you."

"Mmm," she mumbled, wiggling her hips under me. "I think I can handle that."

The kiss was slow and deep as I slowly entered her. With no foreplay, she was incredibly tight, but incredibly wet. She broke the kiss to arch her back, eyes closed. Her nails set into the skin over my ribs, pulling me closer. I sank into her, and even after all these years, the feeling of complete bliss filled out my body. She was my everything, and I always felt complete when I was joined with her.

"Oh, Jacob," she breathed.

The lovemaking was slow and thorough at first. Her hips lifted to meet mine on every thrust. Reaching down, I gripped her wrists and lifted them over her head, using one hand to pin them to the bed. With that leverage, I increased my speed, slapping flesh on flesh. Over the years, we'd tried just about everything in the bedroom. But to this day, this was my favorite position. This and having her on top of me.

She was getting close to orgasm. I knew that because her nails were about to slice through the skin of my wrist. Years later, she still liked to bleed me when she came. Neither one of us had changed over the years, so we both looked to be in our twenties. The changes had happened on the inside, raising our kids and ourselves at the same time. My oldest son was about to turn eighteen and I felt like he should still be in diapers. It was bittersweet to see him grow up and finally phase, to see all of them grow up.

I must have loosened my grip on Nessie's wrists because I felt her hand warm on my cheek. Opening my eyes- I didn't remember closing them- I met her brown eyes that held the knowledge that she knew what I was thinking about. Underneath me, she took control, moving her hips against mine. So I rolled over onto my back so that she could have more range of motion. Leaning forward, she wrapped her fingers around mine and swung her hips over me, her body moving in sensuous waves that she managed to turn into a dance.

It wasn't long until we were both straining, losing our rhythm.

The orgasm caught me on the upstroke hard, paralyzing me deep inside her. Nessie's nails dug into the back of my hand, bringing blood to the crescents. A heartbeat later, she was joining me, calling out. Her body spasmed around mine, milking me.

When we were both sated, she collapsed on top of my chest, her face buried in my neck.

I heard her inhale deeply. "Mmm, you smell good. Sex, blood, and alpha male."

Chuckling, I tilted my head. "You want some?"

Leaning up a little, she looked at me. "Mmm, very much so."

I brushed her sweaty hair back and pressed her face to my skin. "Take what you want. You need to be strong for the hunt." Since the kids still drank blood, but liked it cold, we hunted for them on my days off. Some of the other wolves, like Derek and Adam, had volunteered, but we'd wanted to do it ourselves, to provide for our kids. It also offered the opportunity for Nessie to hunt, keeping her vampire side fed. Some of the others would help us drag the deer and mountain lions back to the house so we could drain them. Then the deer would be cleaned, the meat stripped. Ness had become awesome at making homemade deer jerky.

Her teeth sank into the skin between my neck and shoulder. It only hurt for just a second, and then it was pure sex as she sucked my skin and blood. I was ready to take her again in only a matter of seconds. With me still inside her, round two was fast and hard.

When it was over, I was too weak to move. That always happened to me. But she seemed to recover faster after drinking from me. This time, it was her to clean me up. However, once I was up and she was dressed, we moved upstairs. I phased in the open space of the living room. It would be pointless to put on clothes when I'd just be phasing as soon as I got outside. Nessie opened the door for me. Others joined us outside in human form. Ness and I would do the hunting. I brought them down and she would snap their necks so that it was minimum blood loss. One or two would be for her.

Christa came up to me. "Hey, Jake. Ness."

Nessie smiled at her. "Hey, Christa. How is everything?"

"Great. You?"

"Worried about Will but other than that I'm okay. How're your kids?"

She smiled. Her curly hair was damp and down to her waist. "Haleigh and Garrett have moved their pack further south for the rest of her pregnancy. She kept feeling bad in the cold and wet. I seriously can't believe that I'm going to be a grandmother. It's very strange. And Ryell and Wren are close to shifting. Garrett said that we could send them down to them for training but I think that Walker wants to do it now that he's more experienced."

"How old is Ryell now?"

"Just turned thirteen. Wren is almost eleven."

Ness started walking with Christa. I followed. Paul, Derek, Adam, and Leila joined us. Henry refused to let his mate on protective detail. He figured she'd be safer on hunt and patrol duty rather than with ill-tempered teenagers close to phasing. I couldn't say I blamed him after Will's aggression.

Leila came to bump her shoulder into my side. "Hey, Uncle Jake."

Looking over, I licked her cheek. She was my goddaughter after all.

Laughing, she wiped it away. "Really, Uncle Jake? Don't you think we're both too old for that?"

I playfully growled at her. After she'd joined the pack, Sam came to me asking me to take care of his daughter. He and Emily were getting older, aging, and it was hard to see the grey in his hair and the lines on his face. Ness and I had also agreed to be Tate's godparents so that they weren't split up if anything happened before the two kids were old enough to take care of themselves. Leila was nineteen and taking online college courses for journalism. With all our contacts around the world, she could call any of them for information and work from home for the occupation she wanted. It was perfect for her.

I licked her again.

"Ugh, okay, fine. I love you, too. Geez. Oh, by the way, I talked to Henry before coming out here. He said that Will's okay. Brayden said he had a brief moment but managed to get ahold of himself."

Other voices in my head confirmed it. Leah was the most prominent.

He's good. I can see him through a window right now.

Through her eyes, I could see my son's dark head bent over his notebook. He was looking between his book and the paper, occasionally checking his phone. Uh-huh. Thought he was being stealthy. He kept glancing up at the front and then down at the phone. His only saving grace was that he didn't stay on it. Returning it to his pocket, he went back to his assignment.

Thanks, Leah. Keep an eye on him. I'm gonna zone out for the hunt. We're low on blood.

Sure thing, boss. Want me to sit at the window and glare at him while he has it out?

I chuckled. No. Let's not give Ms. Channing an aneurysm, shall we?

Aye, aye captain.

Mentally, I rolled my eyes. Ever since she'd mated Caden and had Gage, she'd become a completely different person. All for the better.

Awe, love you, too, Jake.

Oh shut up. I'm zoning out now. Go back to watching my kid.

She did her own zoning out and went back to watching over Will.

"Jake?"

Shaking out of my mental vision, I looked up at Nessie. She'd braided her hair down her back. Christa and Leila were beside me in wolf form. They were both strong in human form but weaker than their wolf selves. It would be easier for them to drag the deer back as wolves.

"You ready?" Ness asked.

I nodded and she took off. I followed her, trusting her senses and knowledge of these woods. It wasn't long before we found a herd of deer. She picked out the one she wanted first. As soon as I took the buck down, the others were scatter. My wolves would corral them into one area so that we could get to the rest of the herd. It was easy to take him down because Nessie had climbed a tree, forcing his attention up. Minding my teeth and claws, I tackled him down, taking a hoof in the stomach. Nessie was quick with her part of the take down, snapping his neck quick and clean.

Standing up, she wiped her hands on her jeans. "This one goes back to the house. We'll take down three females next to go down to the house. After that, I'll hunt to feed."

Paul came up to grab the buck and hauled the animal over his shoulder. "I got this one. Leila, come help me drain it."

Leila looked to me and I nodded. She turned to trot after Paul.

We did the same thing with the three does. Quil and Lucas came by to help. My pack was the best. They always did what they could to help out, even going out of their way. We'd been doing this hunt and gather thing since we returned from our island with the twins to support the blood intake. We made sure to take from large herds and always used up the bodies. There were several mom-n-pop shops that would take the bones and use them for jewelry. Most of the meat would go to the butcher. He would save some of the good cuts for us to use for free in return for giving them to him.

After the three does were taken back to the house, Ness and I hunted down another herd and took down the buck. She was starving and craving more blood. My blood always energized her and made her hungrier. She downed it in record time and left the carcass in a known mountain lion territory. After she was done and cleaned up the best she could, she came to stand next to me.

"Well, I feel better."

I licked her neck and cheek.

Laughing, she hugged me head to her chest and rubbed her hand between my eyes. "I love you, too." She kissed my muzzle and let go of me. "Come on. Let's go help drain our catch."

Before she could move, I ducked my upper body down so she could climb up on my shoulders. Chuckling, she gripped my fur and swung a leg across my body. "Haven't done this in a while. Still think you got some speed, old man?"

I growled playfully and crouched low.

She leaned over to whisper in my ear, "Show me what you got, hubby."

Gripping my fur and gripping me tight with her thighs, I knew she was ready, so I dug my claws into the ground and shot off into the trees.

Just like old times.

WillPOV

By lunch, I had involuntary jitters and the itch to see Hunter again. Oh, man. I was in so much trouble. Especially if there was something up with her.

Sitting outside since it wasn't raining, I scrubbed my forehead with my thumb and middle finger, elbows planted on the table in front of me. There were others who had followed me out here but none had tried to sit with me or talk to me.

"Will? I thought you said you were sitting inside?" Brayden's angry voice reached me before he did.

Sighing, I said, "I know what I said, Bray. I just needed some time alone."

He sat beside me, his elbows on the picnic table. "Wanna tell me what's up? You've been acting weird all morning."

"Wanna tell me what's up with you? That big secret you're keeping from the pack and me?" I countered. When he didn't answer, I said, "Didn't think so."

Clearing his throat, he stood up. "I'm gonna go check in with Aunt Tricia," he said without emotion. "Yell if you need me."

I was listening to him walking away when a hand holding my calculator appeared under my nose. I looked up in surprise to see Hunter standing beside me. My heart and gut both clenched. Aw, crap. I had to move in my seat to readjust myself in my jeans that were now a tad too tight.

She smiled, apparently not taking in the fact that I was staring at her with my mouth open. "Thanks for letting me use it. Saved my life for the quiz."

"Uh...yeah. I, uh," I had to clear my throat. "Yeah. No problem."

She gave me an amused, confused look as she moved to sit across from me. "You okay?"

The girl was absolutely gorgeous and she was actually asking me that? Dark blonde hair with natural highlights of brown, red, and light blonde. Her green/hazel eyes were bright in her golden skin. And she had a body that could be the star in any man's wet dream. Although if any of the guys came to me to tell me he'd tap that, I'd probably kill him. Or at least put him in a coma.

I cleared my throat again and tried to gather all my IQ points. "Yeah, yeah, I'm good. Just been a long few days." I motioned toward the calculator. "And you're welcome."

She leaned forward on her arms. "Hey, can I ask you questions about the pack?"

My immediate answer was sure, why not? But I stopped my imprinted male reaction and thought about Piper's suspicion. I couldn't just go from accusing Hunter of spying and then tell her everything she wanted to know. "You can ask," I said, implying that she could but that didn't mean I'd tell her. I looked around to make sure nobody was trying to eavesdrop.

Her head dipped. "Fair enough. Okay, I'll start off with a fairly simple one. Not really a question; more an observation."

"Okay?"

She motioned to me, moving her hands up and down as if showcasing my whole body. "You got bigger."

If I'd had a drink, I'd have spit it out. Without a drink, I just stared at her.

When she finally understood, she blushed. "Sorry. I didn't mean…that way. Well…I mean…" she motioned with her hands again. "I mean, all of you. You just sort of…sprouted." And then she put her face in her hands. Her accent had gotten thicker with her embarrassment, and now I could really hear what my sister and Piper had been talking about. "I'm so sorry. That's not how I meant that."

Chuckling, I reached out to pat her arm. "It's okay. I know what you meant, but I'm a guy so I had to make it dirty. So, I'm gonna guess that the question is, is that a side effect?"

She nodded and raised her head, still blushing. "Yeah."

I didn't see the harm in that question, so I answered it. "Yes, it is. That's kind of how we know that we actually will phase. Our growth spurts are ridiculous. And after we phase for the first time, it can add. So yeah, I got bigger," I finished with a grin.

She groaned. "I'm not gonna live that down, am I?"

I shook my head. "Probably not."

"Ugh. Next question."

"Go for it."

"Where did the pack come from? Is it a disease like lycanthropy?"

I frowned. "You know about lycanthropy?"

She nodded. "I love myths and legends so I try to study as much as I can. I mean, I know that there actually are witches in existence."

"Okay, well tell me something. Did your stories of lycanthropy ever describe an infected human as having massive growth spurts in a short amount time and the size staying that way?"

Biting her lip, which made me hotter for her, she frowned, thinking about her knowledge. After a moment, she shook her head, her hair flying around her shoulders. "No."

I gave her a look.

"So wait, you're saying that…it's genetic?"

I shrugged nonchalantly. "I've heard the stories about lycanthropy, too, and know that infected wolves can still mate and have kids, making the shift genetic. Who's to say that's not what we are?"

A look flickered over her expression, but it was gone a moment later. "You're not going to answer it straightforward, are you?"

I shrugged again. "Trade secret."

Her eyes narrowed. "Trade or tribe?"

She was quick. "Both."

Her eyebrows raised. "Ahhh, I see." Her tongue came out to lick her lips. "Alright. So, tell me, does aggression come with the-the…whatever you call it? The shift?"

"Phase."

"What?"

"We call it phasing."

"Okay, so answer the question."

I hedged that answer. "Sometimes. For me, the aggression was my trigger. You see, like the children born to infected wolves of lycanthropy, our children phase later in life. The growth spurts, the extreme emotions…all part of what leads up to the phase. Now, depending on events in one's life and one's emotional stability in certain areas will dictate which emotion will be the trigger and boil over into the change."

"So yours was-what?-anger?"

"And pain."

She frowned. "Pain?"

This time when I cleared my throat, I averted my gaze from hers. "My grandfather's passing."

She gasped. "Oh right." Her hand moved across the table to settle over mine. I had to fight the urge to pick it up and caress the soft skin with my lips. But damn, it was hard. "I'm so sorry. I hate to say that I forgot, but I kind of did."

I covered her hand with my other one, reveling in the creamy softness. "It's alright. He wasn't your grandfather."

"No but he was yours," she said sadly before blinking and frowning like she didn't know why she'd just said that the way a girlfriend would. She pulled back and stood up. "Well, I guess I'd better get going before the bell rings."

I stood up, too. "But you didn't eat anything."

Her smile was amused. "Neither did you. Anyway, maybe I'm holding out for that diner date after school that you promised me."

Frowning, I smiled. "But you never actually gave me an answer. Didn't know we were still on for that."

"I told you I would."

I shook my head. "No, I believe you told me that you'd love to but you couldn't find your calculator, meaning that if you didn't find it, you wouldn't go."

Her head cocked to the side, and she tried not to grin. "Well, you gave me yours and I managed not to lose it. So I think a late lunch at the diner would be the perfect I'm-sorry-and-thank-you-for-not-losing-my-calculator payment. Besides, I'm told that you and your siblings are the rich kids around here."

Laughing, I picked up my own backpack as she slid hers over her shoulder. "It's family money, not mine. But I think I can skim a few bucks."

"Good. Don't worry; I'm a cheap date. Promise."

A small growl slipped out before I caught it. I covered it with a cough. Or tried to. "Don't let anyone else hear you say that, or they'll be all over you." My tone strained at friendly banter, and was closer to an order.

And she noticed it. Her expression became guarded but still friendly. "I'll remember that." She started around the table, backing toward the school. "So, I'll see you later?"

Shaking away the possessiveness, I put on my best charming smile. "Yeah, sure. I'll meet you out here. We can walk together."

This grin was real. "I'd like that." And then she was off into the school.

Watching her walk away made my blood heat up even more. Never really knew I was an ass man until she came into my world.

"Got a hot date?"

Brayden's voice behind me actually made me jump.

Gritting my teeth, I gripped the straps of my backpack. "Yes, and you aren't invited."

"Will-," he started in a warning.

Spinning to face him, I said, "No. You said I should be the one to reel her in to keep her close. I can't do that with you in there staring a hole in my head."

He growled in frustration. "Fine," he said for probably the thousandth time today. "I'll be outside, though."

"Your consideration is touching," I drawled sarcastically.

Grinding his teeth, he shook his head. "If we weren't at the school right now, I'd pop you a good one, I swear." When he started walking, he said, "So tell me, did you imprint on her?"

Something told me that telling him right now wouldn't be good, so I answered, "No," as firmly as I could and prayed that I could keep it hidden when I phased. Because I had to phase. There was no way I could stop the training that had been set up for the new wolves without raising suspicion.

Apparently, everybody had a shit-storm in their lives. Looks like mine was just beginning.

HunterPOV

I'd like that?! I yelled at myself. What the hell is wrong with you?!

Never before had I said anything so stupid without planning it first. Not to mention, I'd almost let my accent slip several times, which I don't think he noticed. What was it about William Black that had me this bothered? Of course he was attractive. The son of the alpha was bound to be. But every time he'd looked at me, my skin had warmed. From the moment I met him, I'd felt the pull. But what was it? Lust? It had to be. He was drool-worthy gorgeous with his russet-gold skin, toffee brown eyes, and full lips that just made a woman want to nibble on them. Not to mention those broad shoulders that begged for nails to be set into them. My body flushed again as I made my way down the hallway, aching in a way that I couldn't ease without help and privacy. Not that I was bashful. It was just that my kind of sex wasn't safe for public consumption.

He'd also seemed a bit flustered. I could smell the hormones boiling inside him. It was a mutual attraction. One I could use to my advantage. Possibly even have a little fun with him before I took what I came for. He'd used a dominant tone with me, which made me wonder what kind of lover he'd be. I'd heard from gossip that he was still a virgin. All the Black kids were. If that was true, I wondered what it would be like to open that door for him, to release the beast inside him. He was an alpha, someday pack leader. All alphas had a rough side to them between the sheets. The aggression was engrained in them. He'd even admitted to his as his trigger. What would it be like to-

Stop!

That wasn't what I was here for. Only if the opportunity presented itself. Which it very much could with the lust I smelled pouring off him. If I played my cards right. It had been a while since I'd had a lover, and Will would no doubt be a wonderful trophy.

Stop, Hunter!

Growling at myself as I made my way into the classroom, I ignored all the glances. Stupid humans. They had no idea the threat I posed to every one of them.

Sitting in the back of my next class, I tried to force the thoughts of a naked William Black out of my mind. To no avail.

BraydenPOV

I was seething as I waited for Will outside the classroom. The kid was stubborn, not that we were that far apart in age. But right now, I felt ancient compared to him. And now he was ordering me around. At the same time, he'd had a point. What was it about that girl? I'd never seen him look at another female that way. Was it the imprint or just instant attraction because she was new and fresh? No matter what it was, I was close to punching him. I could do that now.

"Bray?"

Looking up from scowling at my shoes, I saw Jules coming down the hall. Her copper hair was down today, floating around her shoulders, nearly down to her waist. "Hey. What are you doing out of class?"

She held up some papers as she walked toward me. "Messenger." She stopped in front of me and glanced at the classroom door. "How is he?"

"Irritating," I growled before I could stop myself.

Her eyebrows rose. "Really? Why?"

"Why?" I repeated. "Couldn't tell you. But I know how. He's decided to take an interest in the new girl. Because of the suspicion we have, he thinks keeping her close to keep an eye on her would be a good idea. He's taken it upon himself to be the bait. They have a date after school."

A frown marred her pretty face. "Imprint?"

I shook my head, very uncomfortable with that topic. "He won't tell me. I asked but…it seems that any hybrid can learn to hide things. I can't tell if he's lying."

"Wait, hide things?" Her expression was expectant. "Do you hide things? From the pack?"

I met her aqua gaze and nearly spilled my guts. But I grabbed it before my mouth managed to move without order from my brain. I nodded. "We all have secrets, Jules. Once you get a taste of the pack mind, you'll understand how important and wonderful it will be to be able to hide things."

She shrugged. "I guess I never really thought of us as hybrids before."

That made me chuckle. "Yeah, I never did either. Not until I phased. Mom and Dad were just that: Mom and Dad. Not two different types of wolves. Then I phased and realized I could hold things back. I'll tell you, it's a blessing."

Stepping into me, she put her hand on my cheek and looked worriedly up at me. "What could be so bad that you want to hide it? I've never known you to do anything so awful. And I've known you an awfully long time."

Smirking, I gripped her wrist and moved her hand gently. "I never said it was awful or bad." She opened her mouth to respond, but I shook my head. "Go or the teacher will think you've skipped out. Don't wanna get in trouble."

Frowning, she bit her lip. "Okay." Lifting up, she kissed my cheek. "But I really wish you'd actually talk to me. My brother's not the only one being irritating." And then she was gone, walking quickly down the hallway.

Sighing, I leaned heavily against the wall beside the door. I hated keeping things from Jules. And didn't that just add to my irritation.

RPOV

"Sweetheart?"

I turned from putting the jug of blood in the fridge. "Oh, hey, Dad. What's up?"

There was a look on his face that told me something wasn't right. He'd just come from checking on Will, so my blood started to run cold.

"Dad? Is Will okay?" I demanded a bit frantically.

"Yes," he assured me quickly.

I let out a relieved breath. "Don't do that to me, Dad. How would you have liked if someone had done that to you about me?"

"Well, baby, something is off."

I frowned. "What do you mean?"

"You know I can't read his thoughts when he's a wolf. But I went down to check on him today as you know. Ness, I couldn't read him even in human form. Just like your mother."

"What?"

He nodded and sat down at the table. "I've never seen anything like this. A shield who's a werewolf?" He looked a little scared as I sat down across from him. "Ness, I can't watch out for my grandson unless I'm there to physically see him. I'm useless, just like I was when you learned to erect that mental wall." His darkening golden eyes met mine. "And that terrifies me. It always has."

Reaching out, I took his hand. "Daddy, you're not useless to my son. And you were never useless to me. You're just…a slightly more normal grandfather now. The way Billy was. You can still see Jules and the twins, right?"

He nodded. "For now. But if they're anything like Will, that will change and I'll lose them, too."

I gripped his hand. "Dad, you're not losing anybody. You just won't be able to get into their minds."

"What are we talking about?" Jacob asked, bringing in another jug of blood and putting it in the fridge. His hands were stained red and deer blood was spattered across his naked chest.

"Dad can't read Will anymore."

Once Jacob scrubbed his hands, he came to sit beside me, frowning. "Like at all?"

Dad shook his head. "Not even a shadow of a thought. He's just like his grandmother. He's immune to mind-reading."

Jacob chuckled. "Well, they can't all be easy pickings, Edward. I hate to tell you that. But Ness is right. You're not losing anybody, and you're far from useless."

Dad looked surprised. "You heard that?"

Jacob gave him a droll look. "I am a werewolf, Edward."

Mom joined us a second later. "There you are. I thought we were going hunting?"

Raising her hand up, Dad kissed her wrist. "We are. I just needed to talk to Ness and Jacob."

She frowned. "About?"

"I'll explain on the way out."

"Hi, Mom."

She smiled. "Hi, sweetie. How'd the hunt go?"

"Great. We managed four for the kids and I got one for me."

"Nice haul."

"So where are you two heading?" Jake asked.

Mom rubbed Dad's shoulders. "Further north. We heard there's been some mountain lion trouble. We decided we'd take care of it."

"Generous of you," Jacob said, chuckling.

Just then, the kids came into the house.

"Hey Grama, Grampa," Jules said as she dumped her bag and books. "What's up?"

Mom smiled and hugged her. "Nothing much, sweetie. How was your day?" She kissed my daughter's head.

Jules shrugged. "Oh, you know. High school drama, worrying about Will, and chasing after the younger ones to make sure they're where they're supposed to be."

"Good girl."

She went to Dad and hugged him before going for the fridge. "Ooo, more blood," she said grabbing a jug.

"It's not cold yet," I told her.

She shrugged and grabbed a glass. "Fresh is fresh, Mom."

Couldn't argue with that. Maddox and Ash said hi to their grandparents before following suite.

Beside me, Jacob frowned. "Where's your brother?"

Jules moved her cup just long enough to say, "Oh, he had a date."

The entire room froze and stared at her.

She noticed it and looked around at us. "What? That's what Brayden said. He didn't tell me not to tell."

"A date with who?" Jacob asked.

"The new girl, Hunter. That's all I know. I swear. I don't even know where they went."

Ash and Maddox shared a frown and I knew they were going to interrogate their sister later.

My dad frowned. "Is this the girl you asked Trey to look into?"

Jules nodded. "Yeah. He said she checks out."

"What was the name of her adoptive parents?" Jacob asked.

She frowned. "Um, Bennett, I think. The uncle's name was…"

"Jamison," Maddox answered. "He was the wife's brother."

Jacob nodded slowly. "I remember them. They moved away a long time ago. Young couple back then. Probably around the time Bella and Edward got married. Their old house was never sold. It's back in the woods like Embry's."

"Probably the house Hunter inherited," Ash said. "She told Will that she'd inherited a house from her uncle. If he got it from the parents' deaths, then it makes sense."

"True," Mom said.

"Nobody would notice if it was occupied anyway from where it's located," Jacob said thoughtfully. "Might need to check it out and introduce myself since it is my tribe." He looked up at the kids. "You said she knows about us?"

The three of them nodded in unison.

"We should get going," Mom said suddenly.

Looking at them, I noticed that they were both staring at the cups of blood rather intensely.

The kids noticed, too.

"Crap," Jules said. "Sorry. We didn't even think about it."

"It's alright," Mom said with a strained smile. She pulled Dad out of his chair. "We just need to go."

Dad nodded, ripping his eyes from the blood. "She's right. We'll see you later, okay?"

"Happy hunting," Ash said.

They both smiled before leaving.

I sat back heavily in my chair. Wasn't this quite a day? The other question was, were we going to tell the kids about the no mind-reading?

WillPOV

The walk to the diner was a quiet one. She asked mainly about the weather, if it was always raining. Pretty much. Or at least cloudy. Sometimes the sun would come out. Today was a good day because it hadn't rained too much. The entire walk there, I'd felt Brayden close by but I hadn't seen him.

We were at the table and had just ordered.

"Thank you for this. You really didn't have to," she said after the server had gone.

"It's not a problem. And really I'm trying to apologize. There's no excuse for how I acted. I take my position as tour guide and first friendly person you meet quite seriously."

Chuckling, she said, "Well, apology accepted. After what you described earlier, I can imagine it was difficult to play nice, especially at school where anything can set you off."

I nodded. "Definitely." Leaning forward, I moved my drink to the side. "So, tell me a little about you. I heard a little of what you were talking about with Ash."

"Oh yeah. He asked me about my accent."

"What about it?"

"Where it came from. I didn't really have it growing up and never knew that I'd kept it after I left Europe. It was a surprise to hear that I did."

"How long were you over there?"

"About a year. Before they died, my adoptive parents told me that my birth parents were from there. So after they and my uncle died, I decided to travel a bit to see if I could find them or any siblings."

I nodded. "Right. You said you haven't found any. What about your parents?"

She dipped her head. "Also dead. It seems tragic accidents follow me."

Hissing, I almost reached for her hand but stopped myself. "I'm sorry. That has to be rough."

"A bit. But I managed to find some of their friends." She ran a finger around the rim of her cup. "You know, if I'd stayed in school in Canada, I would have graduated last year and we probably wouldn't be having this conversation."

She was probably right. We may have eventually run into each other if she'd moved here, but we certainly wouldn't be here at this moment.

"Will?"

Looking up, I met her green eyes.

"I'm really glad I didn't graduate last year," she said softly.

Well didn't that just make my blood boil?

I smiled at her. "Me, too."

She grinned at me just as our food arrived. After the server left, I jumped when her foot hit my shin. I'd thought it was an accident until I realized she hadn't apologized or moved it after digging into her food. Instead, she rested her foot on top of mine and moved her other leg to rest between mine.

"Eat," she said.

I cleared my throat. That seemed to be my habit around her. "What?"

She motioned to my food. "You need to eat. You didn't at lunch. I know you have to be hungry." She loaded the last sentence with meaning.

And she was right. I was starving. I could have eaten my food, hers, and three desserts. Everybody had warned me about my ability to consume food after phasing, but I guess I hadn't believed them until now. Even though I'd seen my dad and Brayden eat. So I did as she said and started eating, wondering why the feeling of her legs touching me caused me to want to smile stupidly. I didn't even know the girl, didn't trust her, even though she was my imprint.

And then it hit me. Holy shit. I'd imprinted. I was sitting across from my soul mate. If all went the way it should, I'd be what she needed and she'd fall for me. But what about the suspicions about her? Her story seemed credible enough, and Trey had said she checked out. Maybe Piper just really didn't like her because of her own crush on me. But Brayden and Jules had the same suspicions. Could they be jealous, too? I did spend all my time with them and the pack. However, Hunter had grabbed my attention the first day I met her where no other girl had been able to do that for as long as I'd been alive. And now that I'd imprinted, spending my time with her just seemed like a dandy idea.

She looked up from her plate and smiled. "What?"

"What?"

"You're staring at me."

Shaking my head, I reached for my drink. "Not intentionally. Well," I amended, "maybe a little."

She actually giggled. For some reason, I hadn't pegged her as the giggling type. "I suppose that's a compliment."

"It is." I leaned forward. "You know, I've never had a girlfriend." Her eyebrows rose, and I nodded. "It's true. I've never met a girl that I wanted to give my time to other than family. And it's not just because you're new, Hunter. You're also one of the most beautiful girls I've ever seen. Not that I think you're my girlfriend after one apology plate of food."

For a moment, she just stared at me. It looked she was genuinely taken aback that someone could see her that way. Clearly flustered, she cleared her throat and dropped her eyes. "Well, hitting on me so soon?" She was trying for playful banter but it came out shaky.

I shrugged, wondering where the hell my confidence had come from. But honestly something told me she hadn't had an easy life and she needed someone in her corner. Someone who could lift her up and make her smile. There was a sadness in her eyes that told me romantic notions hadn't been a part of her world. "You could say that, but I'm just being honest. You're beautiful, Hunter."

Now she flushed, her tan darkening across her cheekbones. She moved her hair over her shoulder to try to hide it. "Who are the others?"

"What?"

"You said I was one of the most beautiful girls you'd ever seen. Who are the others?"

I grinned at her. "My mother and my sister." Under the table, I gently squeezed her leg with mine. "Don't worry. No competition for you."

The blush turned furious, spreading from her cheeks. "I didn't…I mean…"

Reaching across the table, I lifted her chin so that her eyes met mine. "I know."

Her green eyes studied me. "You are something else, William Black."

As I smiled, movement caught my eye. A large group of people were leaving. I got an idea. Standing up, I pulled a fifty out of my wallet and then took Hunter's hand. "Come with me."

She watched me suspiciously but took my hand and slid out of the booth, throwing her bag over her shoulder. "Where are we going?"

I knew my grin was slightly evil. "We're gonna ditch my bodyguard." Pulling her behind me, I managed to push my way into the heart of the crowd. It would be harder for Brayden to catch my scent after he realized I was gone. Of course, he'd be pissed and tell Dad, but I didn't care. I wanted some time with her.

Outside, I didn't see Brayden. He'd probably gone to talk to some of the shop owners across the way. Good. And the group of people were going exactly where I needed them to. Hunter wrapped her other arm around mine so that we wouldn't be separated.

"Where are we going?" she whispered, repeating her question.

I squeezed her hand. "You'll see."

Getting us out of the group, I pulled her toward the woods. We didn't have much time. Brayden was a smart guy. He'd figure out that I was gone sooner rather than later. No doubt I'd be getting an angry voicemail and text message because I was not going to answer my phone.

Through the trees, I helped her over the roots and shrubs. The dark clouds had cleared out, leaving puffy white ones behind and the sun peeking through. Perfect. Dad had told me that he'd done this for Mom on their first official date, not that I thought this was a date. I just wanted to give Hunter something she could appreciate after her first weeks here on the rez. No doubt she missed the sun and the warmth. Hopefully the good weather would last a few days so that she could get her sun intake.

Behind me, she laughed, still clutching my hand. "How do you not get lost? We're not even on a path."

Moving back beside her, I gripped her waist and helped her over a fallen tree. "I grew up in these woods. And now I run them. This is my home."

I'd set her down in a patch of sunlight. It highlighted her hair and made her green eyes sparkle as she looked up at me while I jumped over the tree.

"I love it," she said. "New meaning to ruggedly handsome."

Moving past her, I laughed. When she took my hand again, I squeezed her fingers. "I went from hot to ruggedly handsome, huh? I'm moving up in the world."

She shrugged. "In my world at least. Can I ask you something?"

"I don't know. Can you?" I said, mimicking Ash and Jules.

I could practically hear her eye roll. "May I ask you something?"

Chuckling, I said, "Shoot."

"How do you find mates?" She must not have noticed me tense, because she went on. "I mean, is there a process? The tribe knows about the pack. Is it just plain old dating for you guys?"

Swallowing hard, I shook my head. "Not dating exactly. But it's another trade secret."

"Trade or tribe?" she asked, repeating the question from earlier.

"Trade. Although some of the tribe knows about it." Looking back at her, I said, "Maybe someday I can tell you."

"You really think we'll know each other when this someday comes?"

I brushed her hair back, picking a leaf out of the strands. "I hope so."

The flush was back but she smiled. "What if I leave? If it's so super-secret, you won't be able to tell me over the phone or through text. The government listens in," she whispered conspiratorially.

I smiled but said, "Do you plan on leaving?"

Indecision played over her features, a serious frown marring them. "Maybe. What if I want to go to college? Travel more?"

Trying not to let the disappointment show, I shrugged, let go of her hand, and turned back around to start moving again. "That's up to you, I guess."

"You can't tell me that you'd prefer me to stay. You don't even know me."

"No, I guess I don't. But if you leave, I'll never get the chance."

Her fingers wrapped around my hand again. "Will-,"

I squeezed them. "It's okay. Really, it's your choice. We don't know each other, but we have the school year. We can make stupid decisions later. Right now, I want to show you this."

She was quiet for a long moment before whispering, "Okay."

We'd made it to the edge of the trees.

Her eyes studied the area. "Hey, isn't this-,"

"Close your eyes."

"What?"

"Close them. And trust me."

She gave me a look. "I don't trust anyone. In fact, shouldn't I be scared to be alone with you right now? Your bodyguard is your bodyguard for a reason."

Stepping in closer to her, I swallowed hard and said, "You don't have to be afraid of me. I'd never hurt you. Ever."

Her response was breathy. "Well, okay then." And then she closed her eyes.

I led her out over the clearing on the cliff and stood her close to the edge. I slipped her bag off her shoulder and over her head to lay it at my feet. The sun glinted off the choppy water and the view seemed to stretch out into never-ending lengths. She gripped my hand tightly as a gust of wind came up and hit us hard.

"It's alright. I won't let you fall. Open your eyes."

I watched as she slowly opened them. The sun hit the green just right to make them glow in her tanned skin. Another gust of wind came up, pushing her hair back over her shoulders. She gasped in delight, a wide smiled spreading her lips. She glanced at me and grinned in astonished excitement.

Leaning in, I kissed her cheek. "Sometimes, even La Push has beautiful days," I whispered.

"It's gorgeous," she breathed. "I guess days like this would be worth hanging around for a while." Gripping my hand tighter, she stretched out to look down. "Do you guys really jump from way up here?"

"Only the pack. I haven't had the opportunity yet. The others jump from lower down. I do have a date with a cousin to cliff jump with her. I promised her that as soon as I phased, I'd take her. The younger kids are supposed to go with adults or pack members."

"How old is she?"

"Eleven. She's not really a blood cousin, but the pack is one big family. She and I have been close since she was born back when I was seven."

She looked at me. "You're eighteen?"

"Will be on Saturday."

Stepping back from the edge, she moved to me and went on her toes, kissing my cheek, her hands pressed to my chest. "Well then, I suppose I should wish you a happy birthday since you'll be spending the day with family," she whispered.

I turned my head a little, the corner of my mouth touching hers. "It's my birthday. I can spend it with whomever I want."

She put her weight back on her feet, but kept her hands on me. "Birthdays are meant to be shared with family. But who knows? Maybe I'll take you out at a later date."

I didn't realize my hands were lightly on her waist until my phone started belting Brayden's ringtone. We both looked down at my pocket, but I ignored it.

"Aren't you going to get that?" she asked, smiling up at me.

I shook my head. "It's Brayden wanting to cuss me out for ditching him. No doubt he'll actually punch me when he gets his hands on me."

Her lower lip made a cute little pout. "Well, maybe I should go ahead and kiss it, make it better."

I made a motion as if I were thinking about it. "I think you just want to kiss me, don't you?"

Her eyes moved to my lips, her own lip going between her teeth and she went up on her toes again. I met her halfway and had my first kiss. Her lips were sweet and warm, like chocolate chip cookies fresh from the oven. They were soft and pliant under mine. And the best part was neither of us moved to deepen it. It was just a soft first kiss with plenty of room to move up and progress.

As my phone started up again, we pulled back laughing. Her lithe body was full-out leaning against mine, my hands gripping her waist.

"I guess he really wants his hands on you," she whispered.

Licking my lips, I pressed my forehead to hers. "That's actually my dad's ringtone. Probably wants to tell me to get my ass home."

Shakily, she pulled away, pushing against my chest. "Then I guess you should get your ass home. Don't want you grounded. I still have to take you out for your birthday."

"Hitting on me so soon?" I asked, repeating her words. My voice was deep with the need to kiss her again.

Her own laugh was deep and sultry as she picked up her bag and hung it across her body. "You could say that. But you are one of the most gorgeous men I've ever seen."

Chuckling, I gripped her hand and started for the woods again. "Who are the others?"

Her grin was the most mischievous I've ever seen. "Not telling."

Jaw dropping, I stared at her as she laughed her way past me. "Not fair! I told you."

"Yes, but that was you." She turned back to me and grinned. "Don't worry, though. No competition for you."

Shaking my head in amazement of her, I followed her back down the hill, helping her over the same logs and roots. But this time, touching her wasn't as awkward or formal. We both lingered to touch each other and she never let go of my hand.

"Do you want me to walk you down to your place?"

She shook her head. "No, you need to get back. I'm going to the grocery store anyway. Just get me out of the woods and I can find my way back."

I wanted more than anything to walk her back anyway, but she was right. Dad and Brayden were probably ready to send out a search party. Hell, I probably already had eyes on me. Too soon, we came out of the woods onto the main road leading to the rez.

Neither of us really knew what to say, but she brought my hand up and gently kissed my wrist. "Thank you for today. It was really nice. We'll have to go cliff jumping one day."

I nodded. "Yeah, it's fun. Kind of cold, but with my new body heat, it won't bother me."

She tried to hide the grin. "Are you saying you could keep me warm?"

Moving forward, I cupped her face. "Feel that?" She nodded. "That's all over me. I know you felt it but weren't paying attention. But the answer is, yes, I could keep you warm." I leaned into her again and gently pressed my lips to hers. Nothing long and languid, but short and sweet. "Are you sure you don't want me to walk you?"

Swallowing hard, she shook her head. "I'll be fine."

My phone started ringing again. Dad.

"You need to go."

"Yeah, you're right." I kissed her forehead before she pulled away and started down the street.

I watched until she disappeared.

I was in a shitload of trouble.

HunterPOV

Dammit, dammit, dammit!

Why did he have to be so damned charming?

I had to stay focused. It was essential that I did.

Taking deep breaths, I started thinking. Alright, so I got the hook deep enough. He was interested in me, clearly. And I…I…I was fighting my own attraction. But dammit! He was just a means to an end, a chess piece that was critical to have in my corner. He was a gorgeous, kind-hearted…plaything. And that's what I needed to remember.

What I didn't need to remember was his kiss, the taste of his lips, or the feel of his body under my hands. Or my body against his, his hands on my hips.

No! I wouldn't let him affect me. This was my game board. I was in control. And there was no way I was going to fall for him. There was no way I could, not with my revenge so close to coming to a conclusion.

Focused. I had to stay focused on my goal. And that goal was not finding romance with a russet-skinned stranger.

WillPOV

Staring up at my front door, I let out a breath of irritation. Deciding to get it over with, I jumped the porch steps and opened the front door.

Only to get a fist slammed into my face. Flying back, I landed at the bottom of the porch steps.

"Brayden!" I heard my mother yell.

Wincing, I put the back of my hand to the corner of my lip.

Brayden stalked out of the house and to the edge of the porch to glare down at me. "I can hit you now, Black, without having to worry about killing you, you son of a bitch."

I glared right back. "That's my mother you're talking about."

He jumped over the stairs to land at my feet. "Don't be a smartass with me. You really don't want to know how far it'll push me." Bending down, he gripped the collar of my shirt and lifted me up off the ground so that we were nose to nose. "You fucking asshole! I was responsible for you! And you just blow me off. Is this a game to you? What if someone had pissed you off? What if she had pissed you off while you were alone with her? You could have killed someone!"

Grabbing his wrists, I glared at him. "I would never hurt her."

"Why? Because you imprinted?"

I growled. "I already told you, no. I'd never hurt a female. I may have raised my voice to her, but I would never have raised a hand."

Growling himself, he pulled me closer. "I don't believe you," he gritted out.

"And why is that? Because you know so much about imprints?" I hissed. "Go on. Tell us. Is that what you're hiding when you phase? You know, I could always ask my grandfather."

A look of horror followed by disgust moved across his expression. He threw me back onto the ground before walking off into the woods. Leaning over, I spat a mouthful of blood onto the dirt. Aunt Shelby rushed out of the house to follow him, but I caught her angry glare at me before she vanished where he had. Dad was holding Mom back with one arm but was also glaring down at me. Slowly, I got to my feet.

"Are you proud of yourself, son?" he demanded. "He's your best friend and doesn't want to see you suffer from accidentally hurting someone. He made a vow to both me and you to protect you as if you were his own brother, and that's how you repay him? That's how you repay me for not having you heavily guarded twenty-four/seven? I could have put you on complete lockdown, but I didn't. I trusted you, Will."

There was anger in his eyes but it was the disappointment I couldn't face. So I looked away.

"Get in the house and clean yourself up," he ordered angrily. "Dinner will be ready at five. You'll come down to eat, clean up the kitchen, and then go right back up to your room. No visiting from your sister and brothers. You're spending the night isolated." He motioned with his hand, palm up. "Your phone." When I hesitated, he ordered, "Now, William." Digging it out, I threw it to him. If he was trying to keep me from talking to Hunter, it didn't matter. I'd never gotten her number. He turned to go back into the house, but pivoted back before he stepped inside. "And if it wasn't clear, you're to go up to the bathroom, clean up, and get your ass in your room before dinner. Watch TV and read all you want, but as your dad, I know what means more to you. And that's what you're not getting."

He marched back into the house, leaving the door open. Mom was standing there with tears in her eyes, looking down at me.

I moved up the steps and moved out of the way when she reached for me. "Don't, Mom."

When I went into the house, Dad was barking orders to Jules, Maddox, and Ash not to talk to me and not to visit me tonight in my room. The three of them just stared at me as I moved for the stairs. I did as I was told and cleaned up, taking a shower. Jules was waiting outside the door in the hallway. She didn't say anything because Dad was no doubt listening. All she did was reach out to grip my hand, giving it a comforting squeeze.

"Your room, Will," Dad yelled up the stairs. "Now." Somehow, he just knew what Jules would do. "Jules, get whatever you need out of your room and get back down here."

Her aqua eyes were sad but I squeezed her hand nodded before moving around her. Once in my room, I closed the door firmly so he heard it. I'd always thought my room was comfortable/cozy, but now it just seemed dark and lonely. Of course, I'd been in my room alone. The twins and Jules didn't spend every night with me, but just knowing that none of them, probably not even Mom, would be coming to check on me or say good night hurt my heart. Now that I was away from Hunter and her influence, I felt like complete shit for what I'd done to Brayden. Dad was right. He'd been my best friend since I was born, and he'd always had my back. And then pushing the imprint question. I'd gotten my answer, but at what price? Did he absolutely hate me now? Is that what our years of friendship had boiled down to? Did I like the babysitting? No, but when had it gone from hanging out to being babysat for me? All he wanted to do was protect me from myself. When I'd asked him about his phasing, his response had been guarded and tense, letting me know something had happened or almost happened. I hadn't been around because Dad hadn't wanted me too close.

What a fucking mess.

Growling in irritation at myself, I laid back on my bed and ticked the minutes until dinner.

Ahh, who else thinks angry daddy Jake is hot? See? He can discipline his kids. So many of you are guessing about Hunter. Again, I ask that you keep your guessings vague in reviews. You can PM me and vent all you want but please please please! Because some of you are right, but let's let others come to the same conclusions on their own even if I don't confirm any. It'll just make me feel better. Thanks! I love all y'all! xoxoxoxoxo