Maya's Point of View.
I'm exhausted.
Literally, I feel like I would have fallen asleep during sex with my mate anyways. No offense to Josh, he's always been incredible but I was using my powers for way too long and I haven't been eating a lot. I understand that I'm weak, I understand that I haven't been eating properly and I'm still expanding my stomach to hold as much food as I need but, nothing will keep me out of this fight. Josh and I will be doing this together and I will kill my father.
Which leads to my next and obviously very adamant obstacle.
Arabella.
"Ah, welcome back Maya." The somewhat caring side of Arabella from earlier is gone. If you can even consider that caring. From her it is. She didn't use her powers when I attacked her, and she tried to convince me to regain my memory. And that's as good as it's gonna get. She is now back to her usual, snarky and cold self.
Can't say I'm excited about that. "Arabella, I'd say it's lovely to see you but I have a hunch that this won't be an easy conversation." For you.
"Well, you're right about that." Her lips turn upwards into an evil smile. "I believe you know why I'm here."
My lips turn into a smirk themselves. "I'm sure you're looking for Kermit. But as you can see he isn't here." I shrug and slide down my mate's frame. "No matter how much I enjoy your presence, I'll have to ask you to leave."
An expressionless mask is placed on. That thing fits like a glove for her. "I was promised your father."
"Dead or alive." Heavy emphasis on the dead. "I'm aware I promised you I will try to force him to submit but I'm not in any condition to fight." She rolls her eyes, clearly not believing that I'm going to sit out on the fight. "Look at me Arabella. I saw myself in the mirror yesterday and I'm sure not much has changed. I can barely walk around without being physically drained." Now I'm just convincing myself out of fighting… maybe I shouldn't. I'd be more of a liability than anything.
"Now that you're believing your own words, I'm starting to believe you as well." She states and takes a seat on the recliner across from me.
My fingers intertwine with Josh's before I sit beside him as well. "What would you do with him if he's dead?" The question slips out before I even have a chance to process my words. It isn't like I care, he hasn't ever cared. But curiosity has gotten the better of me.
A wide grin dances across her lips. "Torture him in the afterlife of course."
Immediately I get defensive. "Then why can't you do that anyways!?" My mate tenses beside me as Arabella's cocky smirk falls, yet again. "Arabella, I'm begging you. I've dreamed about this for years, and for 48 days that drive has only strengthened. Who forgets their mate? How would you like to have forgotten your love?" Blinking several times, it does little to combat the tears. "Please Arabella, I – I have to do this. Not just for me but for my mom." The memory of her death is fresh on my mind since I just saw it all over again. "For everything he's put not just me but my mate through." I can feel Josh's gaze.
I feel awful for everything I put Josh through. Obviously being captured wasn't my fault. But from the moment he rescued me till now, I had no idea who he was. I didn't trust him. I may have felt safe with him but in my mind, he was going to give me back to Kermit. The fact that he and Jax were so patient was incredible to be frank. As Alpha's patience isn't a virtue they tend to carry but he took such great care of me. Washing me, grooming me, dressing me and feeding me. Not just all of the physical things but the emotional ones as well. Him consistently speaking to me, words of comfort and love. Words that I couldn't and wouldn't reciprocate. My heart clenches at the thought, if roles were reversed I don't think I could have handled it. Or if I could, it wouldn't have been with the ease and grace that he did, Josh was a natural born leader and in our situation it came in handy.
Arabella gazed at me for what felt like minutes on end. I didn't have a big long speech, I wanted to sleep. I cut straight to the point. Kermit was mine to kill, even if the chase wouldn't be as fun anymore. At this point, I'm pretty much aware that Josh is going to make me sit out, he'll capture Kermit and I'll kill him.
For myself.
For my mom.
For Josh.
Even while lifting her hand – her most dangerous weapon – I keep staring into her smoldering green eyes. Her thumb and middle finger press together, she's seconds away from disappearing and a wave of dissatisfaction washes over me. I'm terrified she'll find a way to take Kermit away, from me. His rightful killer. "I'll be back in 2 days time. Find me a suitable room." Her face turned to a grimace, as if this pack house was beneath her. Has she taken a good look at her cottage? "I'm sure this witch or wizard will be by his side and you'll need a distraction." A grin formed on my lips, she was going to help us. Even though it wasn't what I was looking for, a glimmer of hope shown through me because she was right. It would take several wolves to distract a witch or wizard who was more powerful than Arabella herself.
Nodding in acknowledgment, she inhales deeply. Gulping to swallow back emotions. What is she doing? "Keep him whole."
A snap later and she's gone.
Keep him whole.
Did that mean what I think it meant?
My head snapped towards my mate, who again pulled me into an abrupt hug. On instinct I buried my face into his neck to inhale his scent. I feel his heavy breathing against my ear as his fingers begin to thread through my hair. Amber and I both begin to purr in satisfaction, content and love. Emotions I've not felt for way too long. "You deserve this baby girl." My eyelids fluttered closed, "You also deserve sleep. Come, we'll address the pack tomorrow."
"I need to eat first."
"I've already had Maggie send us up some food to the room." He lifts me off the couch and per usual, my legs instinctually wrap around his. "You know you aren't fighting right?"
"We'll see." I whisper and clamp my hand over his mouth before he can say anything else, because Goddess knows that man always has something to say. We're very similar in that aspect. "You know how I feel about you fighting out there without me. Entertain the idea. I'm not even sure if I'll be strong enough yet." When he doesn't say anything, I know he knows I'm right. I've had roughly two weeks to heal and my cheekbones are still sunken in. My skin is still incredibly pale and I'm still way too skinny.
As soon as we're outside the door, the smell of steak overwhelms my senses. "I know it's your favorite food baby girl but please remember to not eat too much. I don't want you getting sick on me."
He drops me on the bed with a small chuckle that warms my heart. I haven't heard him laugh in what seems like months. Now that I think about it, that timeline is probably very accurate. Clapping my hands together I dig into the steak and baked potato. Good Goddess it is heaven, all I need now is a good glass of red wine. Josh takes a shower in minutes and comes back in the room towel drying his hair with another towel slung low on his hips. That man is way too good looking. "I'll entertain the idea." I'm not even focused on his obviously forced words that he's using just to please me. The droplets of water cascading over the plains and valleys of his chiseled chest and abs have my full attention. The deep V plunging beneath the white cotton cover waiting for me to explore it.
I hear the distinct sound of sniffing, and it doesn't take a genius to know what exactly it is that my mate is searching for, or what he's already found. Orbs so dark, they might as well be black snap to mine. "You knew what you were doing." I croak out before nibbling at my lip. He was intentionally trying to turn me on. Sly thing he is.
That arrogant smirk toys at his lips while tossing the towel that's in his hand, behind him in the bathroom. "You remember well baby girl." A gust of wind and he's hovering over me. My back connecting with the mattress intimately. "I'm going to have my way with you." Oh hell yeah. "I'm not sure if I want to fuck you first or make love to you first but you can guarantee we will be doing both tonight." All feeling of my tiredness are gone, my bones and muscles aren't protesting what he's offering. Thank you Amber. His warm lips kiss my jawline before trailing down to my neck.
'You're welcome.'
"We will do both several times and all you have to do baby girl is lie there." I'm really enjoying this offer. "Let me take care of you." His teeth graze my earlobe before applying a bit of pressure. "Let me take care of you like I have been for two weeks."
Humming in absolute desire, my fingers get lost in his hair. "Tempting. Very tempting, but that steak is calling my name." I suppress my laugh, I know he won't allow food to stop his conquest, but that doesn't mean I can't toy with him.
When I feel him plunge deep within me, I cry out in pleasure. "You can eat after."
Fair enough.
GMWGMWGMWGMWGMW
I don't consider myself a murderer or a monster. I'm not a ruthless killer, and I can't even entertain the idea of torturing someone. I don't even ask about the wolves my mate has captured, and I don't want to know. They're locked away and that's enough for me. I don't normally sit around and ponder different ways to kill someone. But tonight, that's what is keeping me awake. Because if I shut my eyes and let sleep overtake me, Kermit is in my dreams. Not hurting me, oh no. Instead I'm the one who is hurting him. Something I've wanted for, I couldn't even tell you how long. But even in my dream it is not near as satisfactory as I had hoped.
Your dreams are just that, dreams. They're supposed to be your wildest fantasies come true, if anything my dream should sate my desire to kill Kermit more than reality. But the things I was doing to him, I was scaring myself. Worse, I felt like I was turning into him. I was laughing cruelly and felt as if I was enjoying it. I didn't want to enjoy it, I of all people shouldn't enjoy torturing others. "What are you thinking about baby girl? Jax woke me up."
I chuckle lightly and bury myself into his embrace. "Jax always knows."
With his eyes still closed he tightens his grip around me and sighs. "I should take offense to that, but I'm too tired to care. Now what's on your mind?" When I dropped my mental guard, I let him see into my dream. "Goddess Maya, a little warning before you send me shit like that." I couldn't help but break out into laughter. I didn't even think twice about doing it, I murmured a meek apology and let him continue picking through my mind. "Oh."
"Yeah, oh."
His fingers, as usual thread through my hair to help me relax, and it works. "You don't have to make him suffer. If you so wish, let Arabella handle that part." I remain silent, I really have no idea what to say to that anyways. "If it were anyone else baby girl, I have no doubt that Kermit would have turned them into who he is. You not stooping to his level is not anything to be ashamed about. It's not bad that you feel like this is something you have to do. But I admire, much more the fact that he hasn't turned you into a monster."
Gulping I glance up at Josh to find out he's already gazing down at me, an unwavering amount of adoration shining through his orbs. "I love you."
He sighs and rests his forehead against mine, "I love you too baby. Get some rest. I wore you out tonight and we have to prepare for war in the morning."
I find that amusing. We're all sleeping soundly in our beds, and in roughly 30 to 40 hours war will be at our doorstep.
He's right, I should sleep while I have the chance.
GMWGMWGMWGMWGMWGMW
Shrugging on my leather jacket this morning, I end up staring at myself in the mirror. I'm not who I once was, scars from my past aren't so easily hidden anymore. 4 whelps from the whip decorate my face, I'm more intimidating.
I hate that.
"You're beautiful." Flickering my eyes towards the doorway, my mate leans against the frame. A small smile placed upon his lips and I relish in the fact that it's there because of me. "Don't ever think otherwise." Holding out his hand, I take it without hesitation. I haven't seen the pack in so long, I've avidly avoided them and I'm grateful Josh didn't let anyone see me when I was rescued. We walk out silently, my pony tail swinging behind me as I walk. If I'm going to have to deal with these scars the rest of my life might as well embrace them. I can't hide myself forever, unfortunately. My blue v neck hugs my form that's still too skinny and my dark wash skinny jeans are a lot looser than what I remember.
As we descend the steps, leadership is already waiting for us. Letting go of Josh's hand I sprint towards Riley and squeeze her up. "Riley I've missed you so much." Immediately she's sobbing, hot tears are released into the crook of my neck.
"LUNA?" Smackle stares at me wide eyed.
Josh clears his throat while I rub Riley's belly. I'm going to be a freaking auntie! "She used her abilities and got her memory back. She let me in." Smackle touches my cheek with hers and a woman who I haven't seen once since I came back is standing idly by Zay.
Leaning down I press a swift kiss to Riley's belly. "Hi little boy or girl, this is your auntie speaking. I love you to itty bitty pieces already. I'm going to give you so much junk food, just come see me." When everyone laughs lightly, I relish in it. It's been so serious around here, it's a nice reprieve. "Hi Vanessa." I state while sauntering over to her. "I know you've missed me."
Biting her lip, she feverishly shakes her head. I open up my arms and grin widely, "Yes you did." Seconds later I'm in her embrace. I stifle the urge to say 'I told you so'. As quick as she hugs me, she pulls away as if I'm on fire.
"I'm not supposed to like you."
Josh growls but I wave him off with a laugh. "But you do."
"Leadership, let's go. We have a lot to do and a little time to do it." Intertwining our fingers again Josh ends his speech to gesture towards the front door. As soon as the pack door opens, hundreds of wolves are waiting. The words, whispers and gossip comes to a halt once they see us. Specifically, once they see me.
"Maya." My head snaps to the right and my grandfather stands proud, no wonder there's so many more wolves than what I originally remembered. I don't know why, but I pull him into a tight embrace. "I'm so glad you're okay little Luna."
He's the only family I have left. Blood related at least. Because I have a family here, starting with Josh. He cups my face and though I know what he's looking at, I pretend to think he's looking at me, looking into my eyes. Silently we communicate, he's standing by me, by my pack and for that I'm eternally grateful. Inching my way back to Josh, the pack still watches my every move. I'll pretend to think it doesn't bother me. "Power Pack, Twilight Pack. For those who do not know me, I am Alpha Josh and this beauty on my arm is my Luna, Maya. My pack, for those who do not know to my right is Alpha William of the Power Pack. I'm sure you're wondering why they are here. Kermit's pack, along with Thomas' and a vast amount of rogues are on their way here." The silence that was the field, turns into growls and shouts of both approval and utter madness. "SILENCE!" Josh takes a step forward, dragging me with him. "I do not care if you are happy, mad, or dumbfounded by this revelation. They will be here in two days and I have no time to deal with pleasantries." The females are seemingly disheartened by his snapping at everyone, but the males are all nodding in agreement.
"They will be here in roughly 38 hours. My brother, Alpha Eric will be here this afternoon to aid us. I need all women, and pups under the age of 16 to pack some bags. At 6 o'clock this evening you will all be in the safe room. No questions asked." I see several mated males drop their shoulders in relief, "Maggie, one of our wonderful Omega's has been prepping food and the Gamma females, Vanessa and Smackle have tirelessly worked to prepare the safe room with supplies. All you will need is clothes." They nod in understanding, "Anyone male over the age of 16 who are living in the pack house will be bunking up. We'll need the extra room for our allies. You are more than welcome to head to the safe room early if you wish to find your cots and get acquainted."
It's hard not to be turned on by his dominating side, I mean damn. His clenched jaw, strong and powerful voice, and the way he puffs out his chest. I mean, yummy. 'Stop that mate. Or you will get a spanking.'
'I'll count'
He begins to growl but covers it up with a cough. "Power Pack warriors, I want to thank you for coming to our aid. You've all been briefed on the situation by Alpha William, and everyone here knows I can't risk losing my mate again. Warriors Xander, Xavier and Kris." My ears perk up when I hear his name, I haven't seen him in so long. 3 wolves I recognize step up, one bigger than the other, Kris being the biggest of them all. "You will be in charge of dividing the warriors. You 3 will be our leads. Xander on patrol, Xavier you'll be doing training, Kris you'll be discussing battle strategies."
"Yes Alpha." They reply in unison.
"Good. All warriors will be summoned when Alpha Eric arrives. For now you'll be divided into groups that will be interchanged at set time intervals. Kris, Xander and Xavier to my office. Everyone else, either settle into your rooms or pack up and head to the safe room. DISMISSED!"
Inhaling deeply I think about everything that will be going down in 30 hours.
It's time to end this. "Once and for all." My mate whispers before leaning in and kissing me gently.
GMWGMWGMWGMWGMWGMW
Let me know what you think guys.
It's about to go down. *Insert tune of song that I don't remember* I do know that it is a song though.