Un•A•Were

32| The Visit

Bryan's POV:

It's been several grueling hours of discussion, planning, and hypotheticals which only angers me more. How could Marcus know? We've kept this secret for so long! How could he have gotten this information? Who would dare betray us? It dons on me the only possible answer.

"We have a mole!" I blurt out. Everyone in the office turns to me. "It's the only way Marcus could have found out. Someone has broken their allegiance with this pack. We've got to interrogate the rogue and see if we can get their name or any information on who it could be." I can feel my anger rising with the thought that not only is my mate in danger, but we've been betrayed by one of our own. I see James pondering my statement. Elder Erik and Elder Sarah have been voices of reason as they are further removed from all of the emotional ties than us. However, their concern and worry cannot be hidden from us.

"If that is true, this situation has reached a more complex level. Security breaches, a traitor amongst us, and threats to pack members. Not to mention Alpha Marcus' unknown plan. I fear we need to be patient in planning our next steps to ensure everyone's safety." Elder Erik explains. Elder Sarah nods in agreement. "As Elders, we look for ways to remain objective and unbiased, so please understand we look for alternatives to war. But, as this is a very unique situation, we will need to handle it delicately. We cannot allow an elemental to be put in harm's way."

"We also need to consider motives. Who might benefit from this plan? Obviously, Marcus, but who would benefit from helping him?" Elder Sarah. "Additionally, we need to help Amanda prepare for what's to come. She must be ready to fight, to survive." I'm brought to my breaking point and walk to the window. I slam my fist into the window sill, breaking it into two pieces. A silent tension emanates around the room. I'm struggling to keep Max at bay.

"Bryan, we know you're concerned, but you've got to stay calm and focus on helping Amanda. Has she been accepted into the pack as the next Beta female? Does she understand what her role will be? Have you completed the mating process so she's able to feel a stronger bond? This will play a vital role in keeping her protected at all times. We don't know what Alpha Marcus plans, but we can focus on things we can control." Elder Sarah continues, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder.

"We plan on solidifying her place in this pack after her birthday. She understands her role and is ready to take her place by my side. As for the mating process...." my voice trails off.

"You're waiting to see what happens in ten days." Elder Erik finishes my sentence. I nod. "Well, the rest of the Elders and myself have discussed your unique situation thoroughly. We spoke with experts and there have been others mated to humans with no problems. As for the possibility of Amanda being an elemental, there may be some adverse effects..." he pauses. I look at him directly. My heartbeat quickens, knowing whatever he says next will decide our fate. "but nothing dangerous." I release the breath I was holding. "In fact, the experts agree she might become stronger, which would be beneficial considering our current situation. I say we start with training her as a human and set up training for the possible elemental side as well as the possible wolf side." Elder Erik concludes. Silence again falls over the room. Wait, did he say "wolf side"?

"Wolf side? She's not a werewolf, Elder Erik." I state the obvious.

"True, but one of the adverse effects I mentioned earlier is the possibility of you turning her when you mark her. It's not guaranteed, but a strong possibility," he explains. I stand amazed. Why hadn't I even considered this? This could change everything. Once again, I may change her life forever.

Mate will understand. Max jumps around in my head at the thought of her gaining a wolf. A mate for him. I'm ripped from my thoughts by Sam screaming.