Those In The Forest

Part 20: Ivy

When we got back to our bedroom, Reagan was sitting on the bed reading some romance book Hazel talked Karina into getting her a few months ago. From the books Hazel reads, I've learned that humans are very imaginative when it comes to bedroom activities. I hoped Reagan took some pointers from the book.

She didn't say much to us except that she had enjoyed herself at the waterfall and would like to return. Of course, we told her any time. Whatever would make her happy.

We ate dinner, and Reagan left us all in shock once again when she binged down her food like a feral beast. The Elders mentioned her maybe having Lycan ancestors. It was the only reason that made since she mated with us. If true, she seems to share more with our kind than humans.

After dinner, we made our way back to bed. Reagan actually let us sleep in it this time, surprisingly enough. She made us sleep on the floor for the past week, and for two days out of this week, she made her way on the floor with us.

None of us minded being on the floor; we know it's a process for her, and we'll try our hardest to be patient.

We were all lying together naked under the blankets. Reagan nudged in the middle—Rose and me on one side, Hazel and Iris on the other. We were like a wall crowding her, protecting her from any threat by the window or door.

Everyone was asleep. The moonlight filtered in through the window. Reagan had it open when we came in a few hours ago, and we just left it like that. The curtains were flowing lightly because of the wind.

I listened closely to everyone's heartbeats. How rhythmic it was together. Even our heartbeats were telling us we were made for each other.

I unwrapped my arms from around Rose's waist. Slowly and quietly, I got out of bed. I know they all know I'm awake. Even while sleeping, but they most likely believe I'm going to the restroom.

Taking quiet steps, I carefully walked toward the door and opened it slowly. When I managed to make it out of the room, I made my way downstairs to the kitchen.

I flipped the light on and then headed toward the cabinet for a glass.

Walking to the sink, I filled my glass with water and then headed to the table.

I took a few sips before setting my glass down and pushing it to the side. The memories of Dean came back to me. When I saw my brother, my entire mind went blank. I thought it was just my imagination playing games with me, but it was really him.

He's still an asshole, so I know he hasn't changed much. Alan made sure of that, I'm sure. My father has always been an evil man, according to Celia. If I had stayed in that pack, I would have become an evil monster, too.

Karina and Celia saved me from that. From him. From dying and bringing me to my now mates.

Mates, I know we have an obligation to protect. That wouldn't be so scary if one of my mates weren't so fucking fragile.

Humans can endure a lot, but not for long. If Alan gets his paws on her, she'll be dead. My stomach turned at the thought.

I wish I knew his motives. I wish I could stop him before he tries anything, but my Elders and Alphas will likely kill me.

When he threatened Reagan, I felt something in my snap. The only reason I didn't charge was that the consequences of killing him would be worse than his words.

Dean... he could have been good. He could have escaped. I'm sure my Elders and Alphas would have taken him in, but he's too far gone now. No saving him now.